What is puzzling about Natural Resources Minister Joe Oliver's announcement today of a streamlined environmental review process is the sense of urgency -- almost panic -- to get resources out of the ground and to market, as quickly as possible.

"There is a growing appetite for our energy resources from the world's dynamic, emerging economies," the Minister said. "But we have to act fast. We have to seize the moment!"

The only question he did not answer is: Why?

What's the hurry?

Our natural resources are not going anywhere. And those "dynamic, emerging economies" we seek to service -- are they planning to close shop soon?

Since the Northern Gateway pipeline hit the news, The Regina Mom has read more posts about science than ever before. And it's not because science claims a place in her higher reading order.

Franke James, the artist who was blacklisted by the HarperCons, lives in Joe Oliver's riding. She was excited to learn that he is open to meeting with environmental groups. So, she's issued a public letter, taking him up on his offer and requesting a meeting with him.

Yesterday in the House, Halifax New Democratic Party MP Megan Leslie wanted an answer from Oliver. She didn't get it. Nor does he, apparently, get it. Here's the video version which is really worth the 6:29 minutes of your time. Leslie is brilliant!