Editor:
The Dec. 11 Tribune/Advisor article identified our local Chambers of Commerce as the spark plug for the latest public relations exercise promoting the proposed mine at Fish Lake. The Chamber argues, in part, that B.C.’s “proven track record” of mining in an “environmentally sound manner” should be considered in approving the mine.
This mine proposal has failed two independent environmental assessment reviews.
The people I know working in the mining industry are conscientious and hardworking but they are not miracle workers; good track records are built on good projects.
In a Vancouver Sun article Nov. 28, the cost of the two environmental assessment reviews was estimated at $5 million. Taseko reportedly still owed $282,486 for the first review concluded in 2010 and a total of $852,237 was expected to be recovered for both reviews. Basic math suggests Canadian tax payers have contributed about $4.1 million to the two environmental assessments; disregarding their findings does not make sense.
The article suggests that the approval of the proposed mine is an “opportunity” for municipalities and First Nation communities to work together.
The report states “The Panel concludes that the project would result in significant adverse effects on the Tsilhqot’in: current use of lands and resources for traditional purposes, and on cultural heritage. These effects cannot be mitigated.” (Panel Report, Oct. 31, 2013, CEAR #1178, p. 197).
I also understand that the First Nation communities affected by the proposed mine have stated they are prepared to go to the courts, again, to protect their interests.
If the above circumstances are an opportunity, what are the obstacles?
Rodger Hamilton
Williams Lake