Wildsight is adding its voice to the opposition to the B.C. government’s proposed Bill 14, the Renewable Energy Projects (Streamlined Permitting) Act and Bill 15, the Infrastructure Projects Act.
The bills would allow the B.C. government to fast-track infrastructure and renewable energy projects it deems important to B.C.
Wildsight says this will allow the provincial government to skirt regulations.
“The proposed legislation would allow the government — and all future governments — to green light and expedite any project deemed ‘provincially significant’, bypassing environmental assessments, Indigenous consultation and local community input,” said Robyn Duncan, Executive Director of Wildsight.
The bills were meant to meet demands for more public infrastructure and clean energy sources, but Duncan says they could have long-term implications for B.C.’s environment and Indigenous nations.
“Sidestepping First Nations and public accountability is a power grab,” Duncan said.
“It’s absolutely possible to meet B.C.’s needs without compromising the democratic process, B.C.’s commitment to consult with First Nations, and the lands and waters upon which we all depend.”
The bill has received condemnation from the First Nations Leadership Council and the ʔaq̓am community.
“It is outrageous that Bills 14 and 15 were developed with no meaningful consultation with First Nations. The implications of this suite of Bills are profoundly far-reaching,” said ʔaq̓am Nasuʔkin (Chief) Cheryl Casimer.
“If they advance, they pose a serious risk to First Nations and lands, waters, resources and territories that we have an inherent and sacred responsibility to steward in our homelands.”
Wildsight says the province has not offered clarity on what criteria the government would use to deem projects as provincially significant.
“Wildsight urges the government to reconsider its position and heed the calls of First Nations and British Columbians: withdraw these bills and re-orient towards the collaborative processes that are both legally required and consistent with the values of the people of British Columbia,” said Duncan.
Premier David Eby has designated voting on the bills to be a confidence vote, meaning it could trigger a provincial election if they do not pass in the Legislature on Wednesday, May 28.
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