Showing First Nations support for LNG
Eco-activists often tell people in social and other media that there is huge opposition among First Nations to LNG development in BC.
Not so, it is made clear in a new report from our Alliance and the BC Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources.
The report (it’s on our website) points out a “high degree of support” among First Nations for LNG development.
“In fact, many First Nations representatives raised the need to push the remaining projects over the finish line.”
In our news release on the report, Alliance CEO Karen Ogen-Toews, said: “We’re releasing the report to show that there is strong and real First Nations support for LNG development in BC.
“That means, by definition, responsible development that balances economics and the environment, and respects First Nations rights and title.”
Our news release was sent to key journalists who included Claudia Cattaneo of Financial Post. She wrote a story that got this headline: ‘New B.C. report discredits green groups’ narrative that First Nations are opposed to fossil fuel projects’. Read her story here.
Fort St. John’s EnergeticCity news website did its own story.
New board member joins Alliance
Robert J. Dennis Sr., chief councillor of the self-governing Huu-ay-aht First Nations on Vancouver Island, is the newest member of our Alliance’s board of directors.
He’s also been active with the Central Native Fisherman’s Co-op and the Port Alberni Friendship Centre. And these days he’s more than active in the Huu-ay-aht Nations’ co-management of the Kwispaa LNG project, with Steelhead LNG.
“We have the support of our people, we have the support of our hereditary chiefs and we have the support of our council for this project.”
Also in the news
Two days after our last newsletter, Premier John Horgan announced a new “framework” for LNG development in BC.
In another Alliance news release then, Karen Ogen-Toews hailed the new “level playing field” promised by the BC government. “It means increased opportunity for First Nations.” Read the full news release here
The government’s move drew other praise as well:
- BC LNG can help reduce emissions globally: Business Council of BC
- Framework helps remove some barriers: BC LNG Alliance
- Western Canadian gas producers applaud BC’s LNG incentives
- Board of Trade welcomes BC LNG policy framework
- BC’s LNG move an important step: Business Council of BC
BC’s move was followed by a mission to Ottawa by seven northern BC mayors, to drive home to Ottawa the benefits of LNG in BC:
- Northern BC mayors take strong message to Ottawa
- “It’s important to all of us.” — Kitimat mayor, on LNG Canada project
And then came this news:
- FortisBC is sending more containers of BC LNG to China
