New Brunswick's mining
policy is considered to be the second best in the country and the seventh best
in the world, according to the latest Survey of Mining Companies prepared by the
Fraser Institute.
Forty-eight companies hold
mineral claims in New Brunswick and many of them are actively
exploring.
Saint John M-P Rodney Weston
says the development of shale gas holds great potential and the responsible
thing to do is determined whether it can be commercially viable in the province.
If it is, Weston says the port will benefit by exporting it worldwide. He agrees
with Mayor Mel Norton about there being more reasons for Saint Johnners to be
hopeful about the economic future of the city than pessimistic.