Northern B.C. NDP MLA Nathan Cullen launched his third annual economic tour this week, scheduled to hit eight communities in communities west of Prince George.
The tour started Wednesday in Smithers, with visits planned for Kitimat and Prince Rupert this week.
Cullen's vast federal riding stretches from the northwest coast to Fort St. James, just east of Prince George. By the end of February, the tour will also visit Terrace, Burns Lake, Fort St. James, Hazelton and Houston.
Cullen said the theme for this year's economic forums is renewing northern B.C. and supporting economic growth. Community leaders will work with small groups to discuss how economic projects of value currently in the works can be moved forward, and how possible projects on the horizon can be supported by residents and elected officials.
"I look forward to doing these every year," said Cullen. "It's why I got into politics, to connect directly with people on the issues that matter to them and then work to help make things happen."
There are a number of major projects under construction or just about to start construction, including a $500-million upgrade at the Endako molybdenum mine near Fraser Lake and the $900-million Mount Milligan gold and copper mine near Fort St. James.
Also on the horizon is the $404-million northwest power line, and a revamped Galore gold and copper project. It was halted in 2007 when costs doubled to $5 billion, but NovaGold and partner Teck Resources are creating a new mine plan and feasibility study.
There is also the proposed $5.5-billion Enbridge oil pipeline, a project that has just started a federal review expected to take two years.
Everyone is welcome to attend these free forums, which last two hours.
The dates for the forums are:
- Jan. 14, 7-9 p.m., River Lodge Recreation Centre, Kitimat
- Jan. 15, 2-4 p.m., Public Library, Prince Rupert
- Jan. 23, 2-4 p.m., Elks Hall, Terrace
- Feb. 12, 10 a.m.-noon, Heritage Centre, Burns Lake
- Feb 12, 3-5 p.m., Seniors Centre, Fort St. James
- Feb. 25, 7-9 p.m., Mountainview United Church, Hazelton
- Feb, 26, 2-4 p.m., Houston Seniors Centre, Houston
