Anti-Quebec feelings exist in N.B.: Tories

New Brunswick Premier Shawn Graham has apologized for suggesting some opposition to the NB Power sale is based on anti-Quebec feelings, but the provincial Tories aren't letting him off the hook — while agreeing that such sentiments exist.

Graham apologized in question period Tuesday for saying Monday that anti-Quebec feelings in rural New Brunswick are fuelling opposition to the sale of most of the utility's assets to Hydro-Québec.

"Today, unfortunately, there is a small minority of anti-Quebec sentiment, Mr. Speaker, that exists not only in New Brunswick but across Canada," he said during his apology.

Opposition Leader David Alward, who opposes the sale, criticized the Liberal premier and demanded the apology, while acknowledging there are some anti-Quebec attitudes at play.

However, Alward said, "the vast majority of people who have contacted me have contacted me to say, 'We're against this deal because it's a bad deal for the people of New Brunswick.'"

Conservative MLA Paul Robichaud also said a "tiny part" of the population is anti-Quebec — "une infine partie de la population."

Under the proposed agreement, Quebec would buy most of NB Power's assets for $4.8 billion. The deal would freeze residential electricity rates for five years and lower large industrial power rates to Quebec levels.

The New Brunswick and Quebec governments are completing the sale agreement and Graham has acknowledged that some revisions are coming. In particular, Graham said New Brunswick will still have a say in the province's energy future.

Graham has suggested the proposed NB Power sale will strengthen national unity.