News release: GVBOT applauds Pacific NorthWest LNG approval

For Immediate Release
Sept. 27, 2016

VANCOUVER, B.C. — The Greater Vancouver Board of Trade welcomes today’s announcement that the federal government has approved the Pacific NorthWest LNG project, subject to 190 conditions.

The proposed $36-billion project would be the largest private-sector investment in Canadian history and is expected to bring substantial economic benefits, including up to $2.5 billion in annual tax revenue for all levels of government and nearly $3 billion in annual contributions to Canada’s GDP.

“The Pacific NorthWest LNG project will energize the Canadian economy. It will create jobs in Northern B.C. while allowing our province to meet growing demand for natural gas in countries throughout Asia and the Pacific Rim,” said Iain Black, President and CEO of the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade.

The proposed facility on Lelu Island is expected to create up to 330 long-term jobs and upwards of 300 local spin-off jobs. What’s more, up to 4,500 jobs will be created during the peak construction period. The proposed project is subject to a final investment decision by Pacific NorthWest LNG partners.

"This decision by the federal government is an important positive step towards the project ultimately moving forward, but there is still a lot of work to be done to satisfy the interests of communities and the First Nations,” said Black.

“Today’s announcement buoys B.C.’s hopes of becoming a global LNG leader. We know that fast-growing countries such as China are planning to transition from coal to natural gas over the next four to five years, and we need to position ourselves to capitalize on these long-term opportunities.”

Read the Government of Canada’s full decision here.

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About the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade:

Since its inception in 1887, the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade has been recognized as Pacific Canada’s leading business association, engaging members to impact public policy at all levels of government and to succeed and prosper in the global economy. With a Membership whose employees comprise one-third of B.C.’s workforce, we are the largest business association between Victoria and Toronto. We leverage this collective strength, facilitating networking opportunities, and providing professional development through four unique Signature Programs. In addition, we operate one of the largest events programs in the country, providing a platform for national and international thought leaders to enlighten B.C.’s business leaders.

Media contact:

Greg Hoekstra
Communications Manager
Greater Vancouver Board of Trade
604-640-5450 | media@boardoftrade.com