Coal news and updates

An Alberta town in the Rocky Mountain foothills wants the provincial government to order a stop to increasingly controversial coal exploration in the region.

 

“Coal exploration is causing irreparable damage to the landscapes and watersheds as well as adversely affecting the public’s access, use and enjoyment of Crown lands,” says the letter from town council in High River, about 55 kilometres south of Calgary.

 

“Council (requests) all coal exploration be immediately ceased… and cease issuance of any new exploration permits… until public consultation has taken place.”

 

The letter says the town will pursue legal options relating to any damage caused by exploration. It also promises to seek the support of groups, including the Alberta Urban Municipalities Association and Rural Municipalities Alberta, to have a previous policy that protected the eastern slopes of the Rockies brought back.

 

The letter was approved Monday and forwarded to The Canadian Press by Mayor Craig Snodgrass.

 

Alberta Energy said it had not yet received the letter, but minister Sonya Savage said she’s listening to concerns.

 

“We… respect their perspectives,” she said.

 

“(Environment) Minister Jason Nixon and I are also considering other options to clarify government’s approach and demonstrate the stringent environmental protections that remain in place.

 

“These steps will ensure government has the opportunity to listen and respond to the concerns of Albertans.”

 

Source : https://globalnews.ca/news