It's expected the Alward Government will be releasing its regulations to govern shale gas exploration in the province in the coming weeks.
It's also expected to promptvigourous, even emotional, debate.
Kevin Lacey, the Atlantic Director of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation is applauding the Premier for pressing ahead in the face of opposition because shale gas development holds the potential of solving alot of New Brunswick's economic problems.
Lacey also sees alot of opportunies for Saint John in energy and points to all the talk about building a western pipeline to the Irving Oil refinery.