The controversy over proposed independent power production (IPP) on the Ashlu River north of Squamish is about to hit the streets of Vancouver. A group of 152 young, political B.C. residents have organized a march in the core of Vancouver's downtown to protest the Ashlu River IPP proposal and the "B.C. government's giveaway of our water resource," according to the group's news release.
"This issue is in our hands and if we are active and energetic, we can take control of the decisions," said the group's director Erin Sandiland. "We are a power greater than them."
On Saturday (June 3) at 1 p.m. the group will rally supporters and march from Burrard Street Bridge to Victory Square on Hastings Street.
"The march will bring traffic to a stop and raise awareness about an imminent government decision that could undermine the public's right to free water and widely available electricity," states the news release.
Sandiland said the generation of young voters he represents feels powerless and he wants to persuade the youth to speak out.
"Water is not a commodity," said Sandiland. "It can't be available to some and not to others. Our quality of life will suffer because it's not in the best interest of private companies to serve the public without making profit."
The Squamish-Lillooet Regional District (SLRD) rejected the power proponent, Ledcor, in its application for rezoning of the Ashlu to accommodate a power facility.
But that decision may be reversed since the B.C. government's recent adoption of Bill 30, which places rezoning decisions regarding IPPs solely in Victoria's hands. The province will assess Ledcor's rezoning application in June.
The Friends of the Ashlu are holding their own rally for corridor residents at the Squamish Adventure Centre on Sunday (June 4) at 4:30 p.m.
