LETTERS TO THE EDITOR — Windy Craggy project should benefit

Windy Craggy — is this a political decision? With all our technology we still cannot change the fact that mines are built where the ore is. This is not just between mining interests and the environmentalists; part of the financial health of B.C., Canada, and Alaska — which wants this project — is involved.

If this mine does not go ahead we, the taxpayers, will not have to worry about paying any more compensation because not another dime will be invested in the ground in this province. All that capital will go to South America and elsewhere; in fact, that has already started. And if you are concerned about the environment, you must know there are no controls down there as we know them here.

With the mine being 18-20 miles away from the Tatshenshini River, the river rafters will not even see it. They pass under one bridge and may see sections of the road for about 12 miles. The argument they have about destroying the wilderness experience is just sheer greed on their part.

As for wildlife, on any given day, moose and coyotes as well as the odd bear or deer can be seen inside the mine property at Highland Valley Copper, one of the largest copper mines in the world. Considering the barren area where Windy Craggy is, there is little chance of seeing any wildlife at all. No free rides. The company must and will be held accountable, maybe with the establishment of some sort of trust fund.

We know what the problems are, with the projected lower revenues from mining. British Columbia needs these 500-plus jobs and the tax dollars for all of the social services everyone wants but no one wants to pay for.

Terry Steinthorson

Mine Worker

Kamloops, B.C.