PQ asks Que. to stall closing of Shell refinery
Last Updated: Wednesday, August 18, 2010 | 4:53 PM ET
CBC News
Shell plans to convert its Montreal refinery to a distribution terminal. (CBC)The Parti Québécois is asking Quebec Natural Resources Minister Nathalie Normandeau to block Shell Canada from dismantling its refinery in the east end of Montreal.
The opposition party wants the Liberal government to put forth an acceptable transition plan. It also wants Shell called to a parliamentary commission.
Nicole Léger, the PQ critic on Montreal issues, said the government should intervene and cannot abandon thousands of families who will be affected by the refinery closing.
"Shell's refinery generates economic fallout of $240 million," Léger said in a statement.
Shell Canada said at the beginning of August that it was going ahead with plans to convert its Montreal refinery to a distribution terminal after negotiations with a potential buyer fell through.
Eight hundred people will lose their jobs when the 77-year-old refinery is shut down.
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