The Natural Resources Department will be hosting a series of public information sessions on uranium exploration in the province following public outcry for a moratorium on such mining.

The session will hopefully help end the public's fears about the effects of uranium prospecting on the environment and people's health, said Minister Donald Arseneault.

The government has been planning the sessions for weeks following criticism about its uranium policy, Arseneault said.

The Liberal government rejected a motion that called for a moratorium on uranium exploration and mining in April.

Several environmental and community groups have been holding meetings to talk about the possible effects of prospecting.

Moncton-area resident Jeff McLaren told a recent meeting that it was concerned about claims being staked around the city's watershed.

"Everybody that I've talked to in our community has said 'no' to this here and people are getting aware of what the government is actually allowing to happen, which goes against good environmental practices," said another area resident, Jason Hughes.

But the government rejected the moratorium because of the economic benefits that uranium exploration will bring to the province, Arseneault said.

Millions spent on exploration

Mineral exploration investments totalled about $32 million in the province last year, he said. Over $100 million was also spent on the development of mining operations in New Brunswick.

Arseneault said the government-sponsored sessions will allow the public to hear from scientists and officials from the mining companies.

Government officials will also be available to answer questions about provincial legislation pertaining to uranium exploration and mining, he said.

"Our primary focus is ensuring that New Brunswickers have all the facts about uranium exploration and mining," Arseneault said.

The first will be held on June 4 at the Hugh John Flemming Forestry Centre in Fredericton and the next will be June 5 at Capitol Theatre in Moncton.

Even if significant deposits of uranium are found in the province, it could be a long time before a mine is opened, Arseneault said.