Citizens pack Fanny Hall to raise questions about proposed coal mine

Two hundred people crammed into the Fanny Bay hall Tuesday night to raise concerns and ask questions about the controversial Raven coal mine proposed for the Tsable River.

The event was organized by the Comox Valley Water Watch Coalition, but by the end of the evening a new group was formed – Coal Watch Comox Valley – consisting of concerned local residents and a range of organizations concerned about the potential impacts of a coal mine on the Fanny Bay watersheds , environemnt and human health .

“The response from the community was overwhelming,” said Delores Broten of the Water Watch Coalition. “So many people came we had to turn some away because the room was too full. Clearly the community wants to get involved in ensuring that our watershed is protected.”

The proposed underground coal mine is a partnership between Compliance Energy and companies from Japan and Korea. It is just starting the environmental review process, and if approved would mine 2.2 million tonnes of coal per year for 20 years.

Arthur Caldicott, a mine researcher based in Victoria, provided an overview of the mine proposal and the environmental assessment process. He said one of the largest concerns with coal mines is the potential impact on water supply, but stressed there are other concerns including wild salmon habitat.

People in the audience also raised concerns about noise pollution, coal dust, and the mine’s overall contribution to global warming.

“People have a lot questions and concerns about the impact of this proposal,” said Broten. “They want to make sure that the water supply, the wild salmon, and the wildlife corridors are safe and protected.”

Broten thanked the dozens of people who helped organize the event, and predicted the new Coal Watch organization will be very successful at protecting the interests of the community and the local watershed.

To find out more about the proposed mine, or to get details on Coal Watch Comox Valley, please visit www.coalwatch.ca