Dear Editor,
Regarding the recent environmental concerns on upgrading the habitat area and constructing a jet fuel tank facility on the south arm of the Fraser River, I have certain questions and doubts at the root of the issues.
First, regardless of how the problems are generated, eventually it brings out the questions of the vague regulations for the co-operation between the regional government and the authority of Port Metro Vancouver.
As Lesley Douglas, Richmond’s manager of sustainability, told city council, “it remains unclear how the city is to be notified on small or medium-sized projects proposed by the port that impact city and provincially-owned land.”
Is it time that the federal government set a clear path to solve these problems?
Also, considering the jet fuel tanker issue, the quasi-federal port is based on the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act in 2012, which has bestowed the authority to build the projects.
How come in the past few years, the City of Richmond has never confronted the port’s authority?
Why does our mayor now need to talk with the new liberal member of parliament about the fuel tanker facility?
Furthermore, how come there is no voice from the general public about the decision of both plans in this democratic country?
If the provincial government has more rights over the civic government, will it take the responsibility for any possible leak of the pipeline?
Lastly, according to new MP Joe Peschisolido, VAFFC failed to legitimately assess 13 other fuel delivery methods other than realigning the pipeline through Highway 99.
Under what circumstances can the VAFFC provide so many options, yet fail to meet the laws? Then how can we trust the only proposal that it intends to commence in December?
This is a single voice from a young Richmond resident; this voice, however, may be thousands of voices from Richmond citizens. I hope to receive these answers back and I think the Richmond government should have had a clearer agreement with the port on the proposals.
David Wang
Richmond
