Open letter to MLA Nicholas Simons and Premier John Horgan:
As a recent resident of Gibsons, I was happy to vote in a riding where the NDP could win. I had been sickened by the Liberals’ wilful ignorance or sheer deceit in touting the LNG sector as an economic panacea, apparently oblivious to gas prices, and the urgent requirement to transition from fossil fuel production to a resilient, diverse, sustainable energy sector. So I was also skeptical of the need for Site C, which seemed tied to demands of the LNG sector. I was encouraged by your party’s promise of a B.C. Utilities Commission review of Site C, where some objective information could come forth.
The commission provided useful information but I’m not sure of the integrity of your rationale for proceeding with Site C. Please answer the following:
• Will hydro rates more than double in the next 10 years based on the costs of construction of Site C?
• Why did you choose a one-year amortization rate for payback of project costs to date and site remediation? How would increasing the amortization period affect your budget priorities?
• Are you sure the completed project will pay for itself? Will the cost of energy produced at Site C be competitive in 10 years’ time?
• Did financial experts support your decision?
My questions stem from observations of financial analysts, including the firm that performed the economic analysis for the Utilities Commission.
I fear for the NDP, when you bear responsibility for this ill-conceived project, carelessly initiated by the Liberals, but now willingly pursued by your government.
I can no longer accept misrepresentation of facts for the sake of political manipulation. Please be responsible stewards of our provincial commons, rather than making reactive decisions based on political expediency and big money interests.
Liz Neil, Gibsons
