The BCGEU is disappointed by the provincial government's decision today to complete the Site C dam despite findings by the BC Utilities Commission that question the economic viability of the project.

In 2015 the union took a position against the construction of the dam citing economic and environmental concerns as well infringement on First Nations' rights. This decision demonstrates the work still to be done to implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in our province, as well as honouring treaties with the Crown. We reaffirm our union's commitment to standing with First Nations in realizing the larger goal of reconciliation in Canada.

The BCGEU also urges the government to ensure that unionized labour represented by a recognized trade union is employed in the completion and long-term maintenance of the project; takes the opportunity to provide apprenticeship opportunities to B.C. trades workers; and that further construction is conducted in the most environmentally sensitive way possible.

UWU/MoveUP