Provincial Energy Minister Andrew Parsons understands why some might fear a quid pro quo in the long awaited federal environmental approval of Bay du Nord, but says he’s not aware of any such conversations.

The federal minister’s decision was delayed among reports that the Liberals were facing opposition within their own caucus.

That’s led to concerns that the province might have to give something up in exchange for the massive offshore oil project to go ahead.

Parsons says he understands why people might think that, but says he has no reason to believe that might be true.

He says he has not been privy to any of those types of conversations, nor would he agree to it.

“Now, does that mean we’re not going to have conversations on emission reduction?” he asks, “of course, I mean that’s their agenda, that’s what they want to do, so I’ll listen, ’cause that’s a smart move” says Parsons.