LNG project offers benefits

Woodfibre plant will create jobs and pay for public services

Re: LNG not as ‘clean’ as it’s made out to be, Letters, April 17

A recent letter that appeared on these pages outlined a clear opposition to the Woodfibre LNG project proposed for Howe Sound, without even a passing consideration for the benefits projects like this can mean for a community, and for our province.

For generations, the resource sector has been the economic backbone of British Columbia. Companies in this sector not only help to fund social services across B.C., but in many cases they help to anchor the local economies within individual communities.

I support a spirited debate about the best way to balance the needs of both our environment and our economy.

And I believe any project should only be allowed to proceed if it can be done so sustainably.

But this conversation is meaningless without a proper understanding of how much our quality of life in B.C. depends on the resource industry.

Prosperity is not only a shared goal but also a shared responsibility. Letting vocal opponents dominate the debate will only suffocate our economy and ensure nothing gets done.

Woodfibre promises to create more than 650 jobs during each year of construction and more than 100 long-term jobs during its operation. It will lead to hundreds of indirect jobs as well. Woodfibre will also help pay for public programs, with about $85 million going to all three levels of government each year in taxes.

I believe Woodfibre needs to go through a rigorous environmental review, and the Environmental Assessment Office is doing that right now through its comprehensive process.

If Woodfibre clears that bar, and gets the proper approvals, I believe it will be an important opportunity for all of us. JOHN WINTER President & CEO, BC Chamber of Commerce