Note from the NB Green Party
It seems that in political and economic circles rural communities are relics of the past. The Green Party believes that our future depends on self- reliant rural communities as well as vibrant urban centers. We must learn to co-exist because quite frankly our future well- being depends on it. Both the effects of climate change and the rising cost of fuel make depending on off shore food and other goods a risky proposition.
Currently, the provincial government has total control over sub-surface mineral rights, all crown land and the scope of municipal powers. Our communities must be in charge of their own destiny to the greatest extent possible. As anyone with any age on them knows, no one is an island. For those who think differently, take a moment to reflect on your source of income as well as the goods and services you depend on. Having said that, it doesn’t mean that we should not try to be as self- reliant as possible. The same principle applies to communities. Healthy communities require economies that are locally controlled, minimizing (not eliminating) dependency on external forces.
A Green government would (A) give local governments control over Crown land, intertidal zones and subsurface rights within their boundaries, including the ability to collect rents or royalties from any resource development. (B) establish watershed councils whose responsibility is to control land use within the entire watershed so that it is not degraded. These councils would be made up of both representatives of the communities within the watershed as well as elected public members.
Wayne Sabine
New Brunswick Green Party
Victoria-Tobique Riding Association President
