Seismic testing for oil completed off Cape Breton
Controversial seismic testing in the waters off western Cape Breton, the first step in the exploration for oil and gas in the region, was completed on the weekend.
The testing was supported by people seeking a boost for the island's economy, but environmentalists have been against it from the start.
Critics allege the underwater blasts will destroy sensitive spawning grounds, hurt snow crab, herring and lobster catches and disorient migrating whales.
If oil or gas is found, it could mean wells and drilling platforms closer to the shore than anywhere else in Canada.
The seismic ship doing the testing will soon have data on what's under the ocean floor.
At public hearings held last year, environmental groups and fishermen voiced their opposition to the testing, and protested what they say is an unnecessary risk to their livelihood and the ocean environment.
"We are undoubtedly disappointed that this went ahead against all reason and logic and advice from the federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans and other provinces. There's no doubt about that," says Bruno Marcocchio of the Sierra Club of Canada.
Supporters of the exploration say there's no evidence that seismic testing will hurt the fishery. Government scientists have been doing their own tests on marine life to determine whether the survey work will have an impact.
The go-ahead for the seismic testing was given by the joint provincial and federal board that regulates the offshore.
Environmental groups say the waters in question are a federal responsibility and Ottawa should make sure they're protected.
"What we clearly have to do is amend that legislation, disband the CNSOPB (Canada-Nova Scotia Offshore Petroleum Board) and put regulatory responsibility back where it belongs, in the hands of federal regulators like the Department of Fisheries and Oceans," says Marcocchio.
Even if the tests suggest there is oil off Cape Breton, an elaborate environment review would take place before any drilling begins.