After receiving a delegation of Tsilhqot'in chiefs and more than 200 people attending to express their concern over the New Prosperity proposal at city hall on Dec. 4, the Mayor said Friday (Dec. 7) the city will have to "respectfully agree to disagree" when it comes to the proposal.
In a press release the city reiterated council’s resolution on the mine project, passed Sept. 18:
"That pursuant to the report of the Chief Administrative Officer dated Aug. 10, 2012, Council confirm support for the New Prosperity mine development, provided that Provincial and Federal environmental standards are met and affected First Nations are adequately consulted; and further, that the Province of B.C. be requested to ensure all necessary Provincial approvals for the project are granted in a timely manner and the Cariboo Regional District & member municipalities be invited to make the same request of the Province and our MLAs and MP be so advised.
Council stands by its resolution, Cook said.
During the delegation, Xeni Gwetin Chief Marilyn Baptiste requested that council not present to the public hearings that will eventually be scheduled by the federal panel reviewing the mine proposal.
Cook said in the press release the city wants a project that can provide much needed economic stimulus and jobs, and that meets environmental standards.
"We also want First Nations and all potentially affected people to have their say and to be consulted. We are grateful to have had such a passionate and engaged delegation Tuesday night, and to have had a respectful conversation during a dinner meeting in mid-November. We believe in open dialogue and in working together. Council will continue to develop strong relationships and partnerships with our First Nations neighbours and will always be open to discussion and debate on issues that affect us all.”