Times Colonist
The auditor general’s report, and even former forests minister Rich Coleman’s statements, indicate that large tracts of land were removed from three Western Forest Products tree farm licences for the company’s financial interest without compensation or, just as importantly, without any consideration of the public interest and the environment.
This is unsatisfactory. Our legacy to the future, as citizens, is this land. We have an obligation to use it with care, often choosing to leave in its natural state.
Arguments against the development of these lands without full public consultation are well-documented, whether based on concern for regional growth strategy plans or the effects of development on roads and emissions.
The province’s response is not constructive and shows no concern for the public’s objections. The minimum response from government should be to deny the approval to develop 319 acreages until a full public debate has taken place.
John and Marnie Phillips
Victoria
Filed under: BC, Canada, Jordan River/WFP, Vancouver Island
