Envtl groups not impressed with oil spill prevention plan
Posted March 18, 2013 2:14 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) – Environmental groups are dismissing newly announced measures by the federal government to improve tanker safety.
Ottawa has introduced a number of steps including more tanker inspections and aerial monitoring.
Natural Resources Minister Joe Oliver hopes this will help change public opinion.
“What we are announcing today is a result of our listening to British Columbians and responding to their concerns.”
Ben West of Forest Ethics doubts this will ease concerns.
“Yes, this might be a step in the right direction, but ultimately I think the question is do we want more risk or less risk, and the safest thing we can do is say no to Enbridge and Kinder Morgan.”
For Christianne Wilhelmson of Georgia Straight Alliance, the question is what happens if there’s a spill.
“If there is an accident, it will decimate our coast.”
Federal Transport Minister Denis Lebel says the measures are the first steps towards a world-class tanker safety system.
“Our current system of marine safeguards has served us well for many years. Now with trade expected to grow significantly in the coming years, we must enhance this system to keep our waters clean.”
Among the other measures, the federal government is creating a panel whose mission will be to recommend new ways to improve the tanker safety system.
