Letters to the Editor $300 M. pipeline to Vancouver Isle

The federal government has announced its participation in a $300-million pipeline to Vancouver Island. In its support of the coal mining industry (editorial Aug 1) The Northern Miner should comment on this politically motivated non-economic pork barrel. If viewed in economic terms this pipeline would land Alberta gas at five times the well head price. An alternative more nearly economic project would be creation of electricity through pit head burning of coal from the proposed Quisam mine. A $300-million contribution toward a power plant might inspire B.C. Hydro to give Quisam the long- term contract that would get this deposit moving. $300 million might even allow gasification of the coal if this is really the preferred distribution scheme. Hugh Jones H & M Jones Geological Services Ltd. Calgary, Alta.