Harris's 'blind and stupid' remark appropriate

Dick Harris's remark about opponents of the Enbridge Pipeline and other industrial projects has been totally blown out of proportion.

All he did was use a figure of speech ("blind and stupid") to say those who oppose these projects are not looking at the whole picture, especially in regards to the future.

He's right, for four reasons.

First, we need more industrial development if we want an economy that will keep our young people and their families in the north.

Second, we need more development to maintain and improve our lives in terms of economics, recreation, education, culture and medical care.

Third, without industrial development, the north will never have a strong voice in governmental decision-making.

Fourth, only those who are satisfied with the status quo will oppose these projects. Let's remember, the north isn't growing for a reason and the main reason is clear: lack of industrial development.

Opponents forget the Enbridge Pipeline project is only the beginning, not the end of industrial development in the north. Once it gets started, other projects with still greater employment opportunities and benefits will follow.

But we have to start somewhere. Moreover, the project has to go through some of the world's toughest environmental reviews - which all parties support - and that should calm all reasonable doubts.

Finally, there is no reason to think Asian markets cannot adapt their refineries to handle oil from the oil sands, so there will be no shortage of customers there.

Ian Kluge

Prince George