‘Not convinced’

Re: Controlling Our Economic Destiny, Peter MacKay, Feb. 22.

It has become increasingly clear that controlling our economy is just as easy as controlling climate change, both of which are intrinsically linked. Peter MacKay writes, “climate change can be best addressed by technology.” Where is this technology? Are there jobs related to it?

I am not completely opposed to a pipeline, but it lacks a plan to slowly decrease our dependence of dirty, extractive resources and move toward renewable energy. “Public discussion full of rhetoric and emotions” are high on both sides of the pro- and anti-pipeline fence. Canadians can no longer turn a blind eye to the damage that extractive practices have done in the world. As a civilization, we should be cautious, learning from our mistakes or asking how we can do things better. The shortsighted idea of dig first, talk later is not a reasonable plan. Canadians are not convinced. Peter MacKay is correct in urging that the Energy East pipeline be constructed. Its influence could well exceed that of the national railway of the 1800s. The logic behind Energy East is so obvious, I marvel at the hesitation in Ottawa and the objections raised by Quebec. Are we a nation of empire builders or a conglomeration of narrow- minded political islands? I hope that MacKay returns to politics. And wins.