News Release - September 18, 2007

NDP Environment Critic Shane Simpson today called on the Gordon Campbell government to endorse the recommendation made by the Kemess Mine Project Review Panel.

In a report released yesterday, the joint federal-provincial panel has ruled that the Northgate Minerals project application for the proposed Kemess North mine not be approved by the provincial and federal governments in order to protect the adjoining Amazay Lake.

"We applaud the panel for making the decision that's right for the environment and respects Amazay Lake's environmental significance as well as its cultural value for the local First Nations community," said Simpson, the MLA for Vancouver - Hastings.

"The ultimate fate of this lake now rests with the government and Environment Minister Barry Penner. He must show leadership and come out in support of the panel's recommendation that the project not go ahead in order to protect the lake," said Simpson.

Simpson said this is the Campbell Liberals' chance to do the right thing and protect the future of the lake. "We are also calling on the government to ensure that any future amended proposals for Kemess do not result in the degradation of Amazay Lake and the adjoining water courses in any form," Simpson said.

NDP Energy and Mines Critic John Horgan said that the calls to endorse the review panel's report are not in any way an opposition to the industry in general.

"Mining is an important economic driver in B.C. and there's ongoing need to be supportive of the industry," said Horgan, the MLA for Malahat - Juan de Fuca.

"We support a strong, vibrant and sustainable mining sector, but this expansion proposal unduly affects the natural environment and goes against the wishes of local First Nations," Horgan said.

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