The Tsartlip First Nation“strongly opposes the process

The Tsartlip First Nation“strongly opposes the process chosen by Malahat First Nation and [its corporate partner] Steelhead LNG for its plant at Bamberton in British Columbia. “We oppose the aggressive approach taken by Steelhead LNG and their board of directors by publicly announcing the project prior to any discussions with the Tsartlip community,” said Chief Don Tom. Tsartlip is across the water from Bamberton on Saanich Inlet. “We intend on making it clear that Tsartlip First Nation’s approval will be required for any LNG project to proceed.” So far the process is characterized as disrespectful and insulting, said Tom.

Steelhead LNG is also causing consternation on the other side of Vancouver Island around Bamfield, where the company has been working with the Huu-ay-aht First Nation to build an LNG terminal. Responding to an editorial in the Times Colonist, the regional director of area A in the Alberni Clayoquot Regional District let loose on the paper and Steelhead’s plan.

Keith Wyton writes, the editorial described Bamfield as beautiful, unspoiled and remote, and therefore a better location for liquefied natural gas processing than Saanich Inlet.

“It is hard for me to understand those statements as other than an outright provocation. Reading the editorial was a kick in the gut. It’s the same old colonial calculus that has laid waste to the landscapes and cultures of others everywhere. You just can’t imagine a world where everyone does not want to be you. We are a beautiful, unspoiled and remote community in the bosom of Barkley Sound. We live in an environment where nature is bigger. We are not waiting to be saved. We are the pagan post-industrials. We are already in paradise.”