The NDP’s controversial infrastructure bill is set to go to debate after being introduced on May 1, sparking widespread criticism from various groups across British Columbia.
Concerns from Various Groups
Critics from First Nations, municipalities, and environmental organizations have expressed their concerns about the legislation, which they say contravenes the government’s own Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act passed in 2019.
Voices of Opposition
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Adam Olsen, a lead negotiator for the Tsartlip First Nation and former Green MLA (2017-2024), stated that he would have expected similar outrage if Christy Clark had tabled this bill in 2014 under a Liberal government. He remarked, "It was always going to be an issue. We’ve been saying it for years."
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Trish Mandewo, president of the Union of B.C. Municipalities (UBCM), expressed her opposition to Bill 15, calling for its retraction due to concerns about its impact on municipal autonomy. The UBCM has received feedback from many local governments worried that Bill 15 will further erode their ability to make decisions about land-use planning.
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John Rustad, Conservative Leader, criticized Bill 15 as "undemocratic," accusing Premier David Eby of using legislative powers to cover up past mistakes. He claimed that the bill gives Cabinet too much power over which private sector projects receive accelerated permits.
Opposition from Political Parties
The Opposition parties have also expressed their disapproval of Bill 15 ahead of its debate next week at the legislature committee level, before moving on to the third reading at second stage debates later this month.
The Broader Impact
"This is not just another piece of legislation," said Olsen in an interview after attending a rally organized by Save Old Growth activists opposed to old-growth logging in B.C.’s forests. He emphasized the unique implications of this bill, stating:
- "It’s one thing when you’re dealing with something like carbon pricing or climate change policy where there are clear winners and losers – but this is different because we’re talking about people who live here now."
Olsen highlighted the potential negative impacts of increased development, including:
- Increased traffic congestion
- Noise pollution
- Loss or degradation of natural habitats (wetlands, wildlife corridors, waterways, parks, green spaces)
- Potential displacement due to lack of access to affordable housing options
He concluded with a call for more consultation and transparency, stating, "We need more consultation, not less. We need more transparency, not less."
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