To the Editor:
The recent announcement of the Site C hydroelectric dam being given the go-ahead at a cost of $9 billion sounds like an estimate of the 1960s.
Having worked on two BC Hydro dam projects, I know that Site C could not be built for less than $14 billion after all the costs are totalled up. For example, to transport the turbines on giant low bed trucks from the USA to the site will cost $1 million each. There will be problems and cost overruns by contractors.
The cost to build a 2,000-man camp will be $3 million. It will cost $1 million per month to operate and maintain it. A 100-pad trailer park will have to be built with hydro, water and sewer. Extra policing will be required. There will be accidents and deaths on the job.
Our present government lives in a constant state of denial and it is so obvious when it thinks of plans for an oil refinery at Kitimat and a liquid natural gas plant on a rock island off of Prince Rupert, when by 2025 both will be under approximately five feet of water. Keep in mind that this is the same government that is determined to destroy the pristine wilderness at the Jumbo Glacier in the East Kootenay.
This government operates on pipe dreams and is not only irresponsible but stupidly desperate and dangerous. Anyone who supports this style of government should seek professional help.
Creston
