PRINCE RUPERT – North Coast MLA Jennifer Rice hosted colleague MLA Bruce Ralston, the New Democrat Official Opposition spokesperson for natural gas development, in Prince Rupert this Monday and Tuesday.

“Prince Rupert and the North Coast are integral to the history of the province and to British Columbia’s future,” said Rice. “During this visit, we met with both proponents and opponents to natural gas development in the Prince Rupert area, and toured the harbour and the waters around Lelu island – the site of the Pacific Northwest LNG proposal.

“We met with local government officials and planned for further discussions at the upcoming Union of British Columbia Municipalities’ convention. Municipal leaders have asked for up-front financial support to pay for both the physical infrastructure requirements and social supports for the population growth expected if the LNG projects on the books go ahead.”

“We want safe LNG development that benefits our province and people. The New Democrats believe getting the right balance is crucial to our province’s future,” said Ralston. “LNG development needs to create jobs and benefits for British Columbians; however, protection of our wilderness, marine resources and environment is paramount.”

“There needs to be a fair share of the benefits for everyone, including First Nations, local communities, businesses and workers,” said Rice.