Critics force B.C. government to shelve environmental bill

The mining industry is applauding a decision by the British Columbia government to put its controversial environmental assessment act on hold pending further consultation.

Strong concerns about the proposals contained in Bill 32 had been expressed to the government by representatives of mining and other industries (T.N.M., June 14/93).

Under the bill, fees for project reviews would be collected from mining companies. It also stipulates that companies may be required to pay all or part of the costs for interested public groups to review and even oppose their mine proposals.

Opponents of the bill complained it was being rushed through the legislature without there being an opportunity for comment on the proposals. Bill 32 was introduced by John Cashore, minister for environment, lands and parks. Critics complained it would give wide discretionary powers to a review board set up by Cashore’s ministry. The board was to have the ability to levy fees for project reviews and provide funds for groups to review the proposals, at the expense of either taxpayers or companies.

“We thank the minister, John Cashore, and the government for the reprieve,” said Gary Livingstone, president of the Mining Association of British Columbia. “We look forward to working with the government to help develop a review process that will not only protect our environment but create a climate of certainty for future mining investment in the province.”