As trains are halted across the country, the Regional Emergency Management Office is worried about the impact it will have on the South Shore.
Blockades in support of the Wet’Suwet’en First Nation, have left many trains halted and a shortage of heating fuel throughout the Maritimes.
“Propane is important during the winter months for heating, and many facilities use it in their kitchens,” said Angela Henhoeffer, REMO Coordinator for the District of Lunenburg.
“It’s one of the things we will be watching closely in addition to other supplies that are serviced through CN Rail service. There are so many services we rely on.”
During the last CN Rail service disruption, Henhoeffer says propane was one of the first things to run low.
The Wet’Suwet’en First Nations are protesting the Coastal Gaslink Pipeline running through their traditional territory in North-West British Columbia, with many throughout the country showing support by blocking shipping vehicles nationwide.
The blockades have already had severe and far-reaching impacts on shipping and passenger travel. CN Rail has shut down its rail service on the Eastern Canadian line, and layoffs have begun with three workers affected so far in Halifax.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has said that ‘constructive dialogue’ with protesters is the best way to resolve issues and as of yet there has been no police action to dismantle blockades, despite court orders.
It remains unclear how long the rail service will be effected.