VANCOUVER – B.C. New Democrat leader John Horgan released the following statement on today’s Defend Our Climate “No Enbridge” rally:

“B.C.’s New Democrats are standing with communities and First Nations all across B.C. who are opposed to the Enbridge heavy oil pipeline. We know it would put our land, air and water, and northwest B.C.’s world class outdoor recreation resources at risk. We are calling on Premier Clark and Prime Minister Harper to listen to the people of British Columbia.

“British Columbians only benefit from the good jobs and good public services that come from developing our resources when we also take care of the land, air and water we rely on. A balanced approach is essential, and Enbridge Northern Gateway fails that test.

“British Columbians are looking for a government with the vision to pursue new forms of energy to power our future. Premier Clark’s B.C. Liberals are not that government. They have consistently refused B.C. New Democrats’ call to empower the independent Utilities Commission to investigate our energy needs and potential green energy sources to meet those needs. They have abandoned any real action to fight climate change.

“As we say ‘no’ to the Northern Gateway pipeline today, we also say ‘yes’ to green industry and energy, and a commitment to B.C’s role in fighting climate change.”