July session of B.C. Legislature to debate LNG project agreement legislation

Mike de Jong Photo by Chandra Bodalia
Mike de Jong
Photo by Chandra Bodalia

THE B.C. government intends to recall the legislature July 13 to debate legislation that would enable the project agreement signed between the Province and Pacific NorthWest LNG, Finance Minister and Government House Leader Michael de Jong announced on Tuesday.

“The company has met its commitment to ratify the agreement we signed, which establishes the path to a final investment decision on the project,” said de Jong. “Now it’s for the government to address our commitment, which will see the public release of the PDA and the introduction of legislation that would both ratify this agreement and enable future agreements with other proponents.”

The proposed project also requires a positive outcome from the federal environmental assessment process, as well as a strong commitment to continued constructive engagement with Coast Tsimshian and other First Nations. The Province will continue to work with First Nations and the proponent as they work to achieve the highest environmental standards, including the protection and enhancement of the fish habitat.

Developing an LNG industry in British Columbia will result in some of the largest private-sector investments in the province’s history, stimulating significant economic activity throughout the province.