The Tsilhqot’in First Nation tribe are ready to declare a site near Williams Lake a new tribal park. Although not entitled to the land of a nearby prospective mine, the First Nation group has integrated the site into their park borders causing a debate to arise.

Premier Christy Clark stands in the middle of this debate. On one side, she has the First Nations group who she signed a letter of understanding with in the hopes of further ameliorating their relationship. Those hopes would be crushed if this mine were to commence operations as the ecosystem around the mine would be damaged. On the other hand, she has the financial aspect of things. If this mine were to be approved, B.C could be looking at a hefty increase in tax revenue as the government would be able to tax everything involved with that mine. It would also increase jobs in BC while reducing unemployment which is always important come election time.

This comes down to a discussion of ethics and the social responsibility of businesses. Is the maximization of profits the best option in this case while completely ignoring the environmental effects? The Premier needs to decide whether or not she is willing to forsake this relationship with the First Nations in order to increase the revenue of her company (BC government) and allow the mine to proceed with its operations.

http://www.thearmchairexplorer.com/utah/fishlake-national-forest

Fish Lake, BC

References:

http://www.vancouversun.com/news/metro/Unilateral+park+declared+Tsilhqot+includes+Prosperity+mine/10192766/story.html