Edmonton-Centre Conservative MP James Cumming has introduced a private member’s bill to repeal restrictions on oil shipments from the north coast of British Columbia.
Bill C-229, “An act to repeal certain restrictions on shipping,” was tabled Oct. 28 during debates on Nov. 11
Cumming acknowledged the bill has little chance of succeeding, but called it essential for the protection of thousands of jobs and a key driver of the Canadian economy.
” [The moratorium] is an overt attack on Alberta’s resource sector,” said Cumming. “Some have suggested that my bill, Bill C-229, is a waste of a private member’s bill, but frankly, given the absolute sorry state of this country, it is anything but a waste. This bill would right a wrong and fix an incredibly discriminatory piece of legislation.”
Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach said he was strongly opposed to the new bill and questioned the timing of re-opening a debate on oil pipelines and tanker traffic in the midst of a pandemic.
“For the people of the Northwest, this issue has been settled for decades. I’m looking to my colleagues in the House to recognize that fact once again and vote down this bill,” Bachrach said.
“Suffice to say, while there are many other pressing issues facing us right now, I have no doubt that if need be, the people of Northwest BC will rise up once again to defend our coast.”
Read the full story in the Nov. 12 issue of The Northern View
