Responsible resource development means welcoming investment and job creation in British Columbia. It means respecting environmental processes and not opposing new projects out of hand. Today’s BC Liberal plan means resource development done the British Columbia way – with strict environmental review processes and strong monitoring once in operation. British Columbia has clear, rigorous environmental standards, ensuring decisions are made consistently and fairly to balance the needs of industry while protecting our environment.
I believe that permitting and compliance decisions should be made by technical experts who rely on the best available science to make evidence-based evaluations. To maintain the integrity of this process, independent decision makers need to be free from political interference so that their decisions protect human health and the environment.
As a result of implementing these principles, British Columbia enjoys a competitive advantage that is allowing our economy to thrive and jobs to be created without compromising our environmental standards. Our province is in an enviable position today, with the fastest growing economy in the country, and our balanced approach will help us maintain a bright future for our families and our communities.