Editor:
Herb Nakada’s letter of Jan. 10 completely mis-characterizes my comments on the environment and the need for evidence-based decisions.
As someone who has a professional science-based academic experience, both as a student and university faculty member, I am offended that Mr. Nakada quotes me as saying that economic development trumps science — something I have never come remotely close to saying.
In my local government and provincial government duties over the last 10 years, I have consistently advocated decision making based on evidence rather than emotion.
When we consider any development we must balance the desire for economic benefits with the need for environmental sustainability.
In British Columbia we are proud of our record in this regard and it is my vision that we should be the model for developing natural resources in a way that protects the environment and the social needs of our citizens.
Terry Lake DVM
Minister of Environment