Philip Merrick, Parksville/Qualicum Beach The News, February 12, 2010

I am writing regarding the proposed Raven Coal Project near Buckley Bay.  I would like to let your readers know that the proponent of the project, Compliance Energy, and their Asian partners have more underground rights than just the area near Buckley Bay.  

They hold extensive rights going up the east coast of the Island towards Campbell River.  They have underground rights in Area H near Qualicum Beach as well.

Therefore, if this Raven project is allowed to go ahead it would likely set a precedent for more underground coal mines up and down the east coast of the Island.  

This could be coming to a watershed near you.  

Is anyone in Oceanside concerned about the negative health effects from coal dust of trucks or trains transporting it to one of three ports? These trains or trucks would go right past Qualicum Beach and Parksville if they are headed to the preferred destination of Port Alberni.  

Try to imagine huge B-train coal trucks or trains lumbering past Cameron Lake and Cathedral Grove 24 hours a day for 20 years.

In the simplest terms a B-train consists of two trailers linked together by a fifth wheel, and are up to 26 metres (85 ft.) long.

We cannot continue to sacrifice the future for our children and grandchildren for a few short-term jobs and the benefit of corporations which do not care about our well being.

The mine may actually cost jobs if it destroys or damages the long term, sustainable fisheries in Baynes Sound.  

There will be increased carbon emissions, negative effects on water aquifers and watersheds, the list goes on and on.  

Would people please take a few moments to write to their MLAs, MPs and any other government representative, urging that this mine should not proceed. You can find the 'Write Now!' link to write to your government representatives on www.coalwatch.ca.

If we do nothing now, who knows what the future holds? 

Philip Merrick

Qualicum Beach