Times Colonist, August 17, 2010

The clock is ticking down for those who want to tell the federal government what they think about plans for an underground coal mine in the Comox Valley.

The public has until Sept. 20 to submit comments to the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency on the Raven Underground Coal Project, which would create a 3,100-hectare underground mine near Fanny Bay.

The project, led by Compliance Coal Corp. of Vancouver, is undergoing federal and provincial environmental assessments.

Comments to the CEAA are used to ensure all issues of public concern are addressed during the review.

However, John Snyder, CoalWatch Comox Valley chairman, said background documents on the agency's website leave too many unanswered questions.

"It is impossible to assess the impact of this mine without a thorough mapping of the aquifers throughout the region," Snyder said.

CoalWatch is calling for mapping and modelling of the aquifers and for the CEAA to conduct an independent expert panel review.

"With so much at stake, it's crucial to have the most rigorous assessment possible," Snyder said. "This mine could jeopardize our well water, our air quality, salmon habitat and hundreds of jobs in the shellfish industry."

However, Raven Project CEO John Tapics said previously that he believes the mine will be good for the community and will not have adverse environmental effects. Most of the workforce would be hired locally, he added.

To comment on the mine go to Raven@ceaa-acee.gc.ca

© Times Colonist (Victoria) 2010

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