Think back to your last family reunion. Amidst semi-awkward handshakes and hugs – there seem to be certain taboo conversation topics that are avoided at all costs. Topics like political ideology and religion to name a few. There’s a new big bad taboo subject in B.C. and that’s showing support for pipelines. But, why? Partially due to loud, negative and misinformed groups who are continuously misleading British Columbians through myths. In reality, 84% of British Columbians support responsible development of major projects throughout B.C. That’s why we’re working to give them a voice, stand up for long-term jobs and economic growth. Who knows, maybe at your next family reunion – you’ll be able to voice your opinion on pipelines in B.C. without feeling a sense of guilt and discomfort.
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“Pipelines aren’t safe”
Moving oil and gas by pipeline is at least 4.5 times safer than moving oil and gas above ground by trains, according to a study released by the Fraser Institute public policy think-tank. Further, Canada is a world expert at moving energy products safely to markets according to the Canadian Energy Pipeline Association, large-scale transmission pipelines safely transported 99.9995 per cent of liquid products between 2002 and 2013 on a 115,000 kilometre network.
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“Pipelines are hurting B.C.’s economy”
When major pipelines move forward – local economies benefit. Whether its a contractor growing his/her’s business, or a local restaurant hiring new staff – the positive ripple effect is strong. Just the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion project alone is a $6.8B project which will create more than 125,000 direct and in-direct jobs. The pipeline will also add an additional $23B in tax revenue to government – that means more funding for essential services like education, healthcare and taking care of the most vulnerable.
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“No one supports pipelines”
A small but loud group continues to mislead British Columbians. The fact of the matter is the overwhelming majority of BC residents support responsible development. They understand that a resource-based economy creates jobs not only in construction but in almost every other sector of the economy. When a major project like this pipeline proceeds businesses and their employees throughout the province are impacted. More money is spent on hotels, restaurants, auto dealers, after school activities, recreational pursuits to name just a few because of the high paying, long term secure jobs that are created.
