From the City of Williams Lake:
Mayor Kerry Cook says the City is disappointed in the federal government decision not to grant authorizations for the Prosperity mine project, but says it is committed to helping find ways to see the project move forward.
“We have already been in contact with mine proponent Taseko Mines Ltd., and they have stated they are planning to get more information to evaluate options to move forward. We will stay in contact with them as that process unfolds.”
A Mayor’s Roundtable of key community leaders has been meeting to discuss how to move forward after a federal government decision, and will continue to explore options to keep the project viable. “We are also in constant communication with the proponent Taseko Mines, MLA Donna Barnett, and MP Dick Harris,” Cook says.
While the Mayor and Council are disappointed with the decision, they respect the views and interests of those in opposition to the project. “This is a very emotional time in our community, and we need always to be respectful to each other as we determine what options are available to us,” says Mayor Cook.
“A strong economy is the basis for a viable, healthy community,” says Mayor Cook. “Residents need opportunities for employment in order to rise out of poverty, provide for themselves and their families and to have a sense of hope and optimism for the future. Prosperity would provide that.
“I am disappointed with the decision, as are many businesses and individuals in the region who have been anticipating this mine development. In the meantime, the City will continue to work closely with the business community, industry and the Provincial government to create other economic opportunities to support long term quality of life and viability and of our communities. “We have been through tough times before,” says Cook, noting the city has a diverse economic base. “We are resilient. This is not the end of the world, and we will work to see what options there are to see the mine move forward.”
The mine would provide 500 full-time and 1,200 spinoff jobs in Williams Lake and the region during its 20-year life. The project would play a significant role in improving the economic state of the region by replacing the many well-paying jobs that have been, and will continue to be lost in the forest industry.
The federal government decided not to grant federal authorizations for the project at Fish Lake due to concerns about the significant adverse environmental effects.
1 comment:
This decision creates the perception that any mine proposals in BC may be rejected on the basis that any environmental concerns raised by the First nations will get the project rejected. Why invest in BC if the millions spent on proposals like this end up being rejected. Mining jobs are need to replace the downturn in the forest industry and the reduction in the allowable cut that is about to occur because of the mountain pine beetle devastion of our forests.This is not a welcome decision. I hope there is an alternative re using the lake as a tailings pond. With the price of copper still rising perhaps a more expensive mine project is doable. Meanwhile this just gives First Nations more reasons to try and block all projects that are also intended to better their standard of living also.
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