Dear Editor:
On (Jan. 26), at the National Energy Board hearings regarding the Trans Mountain Pipeline Expansion application, District of North Vancouver Mayor Richard Walton gave a compelling presentation outlining the district’s opposition to the pipeline. He pointed out the importance of Burrard Inlet to North Vancouver. He presented evidence that a spill could precipitate an ecological collapse and that even a small spill could destroy Maplewood Flats. He also spoke of the award-winning approach North Vancouver has regarding its approach to risk. Janice
Edmonds of NSNOPE spoke of the serious health impacts that oil spills have had in other jurisdictions that include, but are in no way limited to, respiratory disease, leukemia and genetic disorders.
Having listened to the evidence, the panel didn’t question either party about the catastrophic impact the project could have. Instead, they asked about the balance of national and local interest, one of the criteria they must examine when deciding whether or not to grant approval to a project.
The implication is clear. Yes, the Kinder Morgan pipeline expansion project could destroy our environment, the ecological food chain, property values, and the health of our citizens, but even if this is the case, it is possible that, in the view of the National Energy Board, there exists a national interest that is so great that this risk is justifiable.
Is North Vancouver to become a sacrifice zone?
Leslie Palleson
Lawyer and vice-president of North Shore NOPE
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