Nova Scotians opposed to the proposed $10-billion AI data centre in Point Tupper are preparing to take their concerns beyond social media, with demonstrations planned in communities across the province on Saturday, November 7.
The protests come amid growing public scrutiny of EverWind’s proposed development.
Earlier this week, hundreds of people attended two open house events in Richmond County; D’Esousse and Lower River, hosted by EverWind, with concerns surrounding water consumption, electricity costs, environmental impacts and a lack of public transparency continuing to fuel debate.
Now, many are expected to take their concerns to the streets.
Benjamin Lauzon, one of the local protest organizers, says he became involved shortly after the October 16 announcement because he felt residents needed an opportunity to have their voices heard.
Lauzon says he believes Nova Scotians should have access to the information needed to make an informed decision about a project that could have long-term consequences for their communities.
“The fact that they are not giving the voice to Nova Scotians to make an informed decision is, I think, one of the big points of our protest,” Lauzon said.
He questions whether sufficient environmental assessments have been completed specifically for the proposed development and says residents need greater clarity about the project’s potential effects.
“Transparency is the biggest issue of this and right now there is none,” says Lauzon.
Where demonstrations are planned
Demonstrations are scheduled for noon on Saturday, November 7, at the following locations:
– Westville: 2042 Queen Street
– Truro: 207 Willow Street
– Kentville: Town Square
– Port Hawkesbury: 28 MacSween Street
– Sydney: 360 Prince Street
– Halifax: 1726 Hollis Street
– Bridgewater: 480 King Street
