A Nova Scotia judge wants more information

A Nova Scotia judge wants more information on how an effluent leak from a pulp mill has affected those living in Pictou Landing First Nations. Northern Pulp Corporation has pleaded guilty on a Fisheries Act charge laid following an investigation into an effluent spill in 2014. The judge is preparing to sentence, but he was curious as to why Pictou Landing First Nations members were not asked about the impact of the leak. The judge acknowledged the history between the mill and the nation, so he wanted to hear more from those affected, despite a joint statement of the Crown and defence of the facts in the case. Prosecution said victim impact statements weren’t taken because they were not legally required, but will have Environment Canada investigators contact the nation about the matter. Sentencing is put off until Feb. 24.