Kemano opponents gain Liberal support

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Opponents of Alcan's Kemano Completion Project in northern British Columbia have gained the support of the province's Liberal leader of the official opposition.

Gordon Campbell has called upon the NDP government to shelve the hydroelecric project.

The project would see water diverted form the Nechako River Reservoir to the Kemano powerhouse, significantly reducing water levels on the Nechako and Fraser Rivers.

First Nations oppose the project, saying risks to Chinook and sockeye salmon stocks in B.C.'s rivers are considerable.

"It's obvious that in reducing the flows in the Nechako River to 12 per cent of their original levels, the survival of important commercial and sport fishery salmon runs cannot be guaranteed," said Campbell.

The town of Vanderhoof faces critical water shortages and the recreational potential of the river will be destroyed if the project isn't cancelled, he said.

"Times have changed and public values have changed over the last 30 years, with society being far more concerned about the impact of such development on the environment."

The announcement pleased chief of the Carrier Sekani Tribal Council Lynda Prince.

"His position is very close to our own. We are pleased that some politicians are finally listening," she said.

Prince has learned, however, you can't always count on a politician to remain consistent on their positions.

"We haven't forgotten that Premier Harcourt opposed Kemano Two before he was elected. We only hope Mr. Campbell's party remembers its promises better if they form the government."