Editor:
While I did not attend the meetings this past week as I was working, I have to comment on a few of the comments that were reported in your Tribune of July 25.
First off I am non-native but my family has been in the Chilcotin since around 1885. I grew up in the Chilcotin and am betwixt and between on the Prosperity Mine project in the Xeni Gwet’in territory. I worked for the Ministry of Forests at Alexis Creek and went all through the Brittany Triangle court case and sided with the Xeni Gwet’in as they were promised to be consulted, and that failed miserably. I applauded Chief Roger William on his efforts at the time.
Getting back to the article on the meetings: to the lady who stated she grew up in Sudbury. I have been through Sudbury around 30 years ago and, yes, I agree that it looked like a moonscape but that was nickel mining and also back in the 70s when I went through, but I am sure things have changed since then. Young people always leave for the bigger centres in search of jobs and other excitement. Nothing new.
But the comment that really upset me is from Fanny Stump. Fanny, how could you even think that First Nations people (let alone say) that your people do not need Williams Lake? Where would you go for groceries, gas, doctors, dentists, etc.? There are probably more people living in Williams Lake from Anaham Reserve and living in subsidized housing and on welfare in town than probably live at Anaham, I am sure.
I believe that Ervin Charleyboy is on the right track stating that it could be an improvement and opportunity to First Nations if the mine goes through and as long as Taseko sticks to the rules and regulations it would be prosperous for everyone. Stop and think about it, Fanny.
Loren Buckle
Williams Lake