Mr. Speaker, yesterday I was encouraged to hear that the B.C. government had decided to go ahead with the construction of the Site C dam. Located in my riding and just outside my home town of Fort St. John, this important project will have a positive impact on the local economy through the jobs created, the growth of local businesses, and the overall sense of confidence in the community.
This project was initiated by the B.C. Liberal government and in 2014 was approved by the federal environmental assessment process following the consultation based on scientific evidence. BC Hydro was provided with over 80 conditions to be met over the course of the project.
I personally have been asked by many residents about the future of Site C and I am happy to say that this project has been given the green light and will now continue. I, along with Senate colleague Richard Neufeld, join with them in congratulating British Columbians and all Canadians on the continuation of this environmentally sustainable green energy project.
At this time, I would like to wish you, Mr. Speaker, and all residents of Prince George—Peace River—Northern Rockies a very merry Christmas.