FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. – The decision to proceed with Site C has provoked reaction across the spectrum. Here’s a sample:
“In the wake of the Site C dam decision, it’s important not to lose sight of one thing: Our province’s efforts to tackle human-caused climate change are indelibly linked to today’s energy choices. British Columbians expect Premier John Horgan’s government to deliver on its promise of a new climate plan that gets us back on track to our targets for fighting carbon pollution.” — Pembina Institute acting B.C. director Karen Tam Wu
“When the report from the BC Utilities Commission made clear that the financial risks to the province were roughly the same whether or not the project goes forward, the decision had to be made based on issues outside the scope of the report. The evidence said that the project should go forward.” — Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters B.C. divisional vice-president Andrew Wynn-Williams
“I am confident that First Nations will continue their efforts to stop Site C and the next step will be legal challenges. We have rights in our traditional territories and, just as important, we have responsibilities to those traditional territories — to protect them, maintain them and sustain them. If this project proceeds it will devastate traditional territories and sacred sites.” — Assembly of First Nations National Chief Perry Bellegarde
“Taking a four billion-dollar bath with nothing to show for it would have been fiscally irresponsible.” — Canadian Taxpayers Federation B.C. director Kris Sims
“Assuring a domestic source of clean, reliable hydroelectric power helps secure our energy system for the growth of businesses and sectors of the Lower Mainland and provincial economy for decades into the future.” — Greater Vancouver Board of Trade president and CEO Iain Black
“In the long-run, Site C’s affordable energy is a huge competitive advantage for business in the province. B.C.’s hydroelectric system gives businesses and residents certainty that reliable and clean power will be available when it is needed.” — B.C. Chamber of Commerce president and CEO Val Litwin
“Today is a dark day. The government has passed up its chance to stop this misbegotten project. Instead, it has betrayed First Nations and all those who voted in hope of stopping Site C.” — Sierra Club in B.C Peace Valley campaigner Galen Armstrong
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