By Murielle Pitre
Being an advocate often means stepping into unfamiliar or uncomfortable territory, especially when the stakes are high. That’s exactly what Shelley Petit, Chair of NBCPD, has been doing on behalf of our Coalition, our members, and all New Brunswickers living on limited incomes.
As NB Power continues to submit rate‑increase requests to the Energy and Utilities Board (EUB), many residents are watching with growing concern. Shelley reached a point where concern wasn’t enough—so she stepped forward as an intervener to represent people with disabilities and push back.
She reminds us that disability‑related power needs aren’t optional or flexible. Power wheelchairs, oxygen machines, lifts—these devices run on electricity, and they run on their own schedule. When power is disconnected due to non‑payment, the consequences can be immediate, life‑altering, and in some cases, life‑ending.
Despite managing both Multiple Chemical Sensitivities and Metastatic Melanoma, Shelley has been a steady, determined presence at the EUB hearings. Her sharp questions and unwavering commitment have drawn well‑deserved media attention, and her voice is making a real impact.
If you’d like to learn more about the hearings and Shelley’s work, you’ll find links below.
From CBC – It won’t be going viral, but N.B. Power’s rate hearing is online, start to finish Read/Watch Here
From CBC – New Brunswick utilities board rejects April 1 power rate increase Read/Watch Here
From NB Media Coop: NB Power barred from raising rates in April Read Story
From CBC Watch Video Here