Official Opposition using every tool possible to get answers on AI data centre

HALIFAX — Today, Official Opposition Leader Claudia Chender announced the Nova Scotia NDP will use every tool in their toolbox to get answers and accountability for Nova Scotians on the proposed AI data centre in Cape Breton.

Chender was joined by two mothers at a news conference who talked about their worries over the data centre’s potential impact on power bills and the environment. They both raised concerns about the future we are leaving for the next generation and the impacts the centre could have on families like theirs.

“Nova Scotian families didn’t ask for a data centre. They’re focused on managing rising costs every day, and they’re worried about the very real possibility that this data centre will increase their power bills or hurt the environment for years to come, with few financial returns or jobs for Nova Scotians,” said Chender. “Premier Tim Houston wants Nova Scotians to take the company at their word that we don’t need to worry, but promises from American billionaires are not enough. Nova Scotians need strong, legislated protections and a government that actually listens to them.”

Since the AI data centre was announced, New Democrats have heard from thousands of Nova Scotians who have serious questions that the Houston government isn’t answering about potential community cost and benefit. Last week, when questioned by the media, Finance Minister John Lohr said that his government hasn’t ruled out tax breaks for EverWind’s data centre.

New Democrats have been pushing the Houston government to recall the Legislature for an emergency debate through petitions, committee motions, and a letter-writing campaign. Chender will also travel to Port Hawkesbury this weekend to join with some of the thousands of Nova Scotians gathering across the province demanding answers before this project goes ahead, and is hosting a town hall on the South Shore later this month.

“Nova Scotians want to be able to afford a good life for their families. They want their kids and grandkids to be able to thrive. And they want to know that their government has their backs. But the Houston government has shown us over and over again that they’re not listening to what Nova Scotians want,” said Chender. “It’s time for this government to call back the Legislature and explain to Nova Scotians what the benefits of this data centre actually are, and enshrine real protections in law.”

-30-