Premier Ed Stelmach is accusing Greenpeace activists of trying to put Albertans out of work with their latest actions against the province’s oilsands.
His comments come after another act of dissent from the environmental group, which has invaded three Alberta oilsands sites in three weeks, most recently occupying the Shell Scotford upgrader near Fort Saskatchewan, just northeast of Edmonton, this past weekend.
“These individuals want to put Albertans out of work — Canadians out of work. They want to bring down the quality of life,” Stelmach said, adding he is concerned the protestors are putting themselves and others at risk.
“Albertans don’t need to be lectured on their responsibilities by tourists.”
Stelmach said the province will work with energy companies to review security in light of the recent protests and vowed acts of disruption will not be tolerated.
Greenpeace spokesperson Jessica Wilson said 16 activists were arrested, including nine who were taken into custody at 5 a.m. yesterday.
