DAWSON CREEK, B.C. - Premier-Designate Lorne Doerkson is welcoming Ottawa’s $200-million investment in Woodfibre LNG, calling it a positive sign for B.C.’s economy and a model for future resource development across the province.
Doerkson said the Squamish-area LNG project demonstrates what can happen when governments, First Nations and industry work together to advance major developments.
He also praised the federal government’s participation in the project and said British Columbia has an opportunity to attract more investment and create jobs through responsible resource development.
While the project is located near Squamish, the announcement could have significance for Northeast B.C., where much of the natural gas that supplies the province’s LNG industry is produced.
The Peace Region is home to major natural gas developments in the Montney formation and plays a key role in supplying LNG export facilities on the West Coast.
Doerkson said future economic growth will require cooperation between governments, First Nations and industry, along with investments in infrastructure such as power and pipelines.
He also emphasized the need for timely and predictable approval processes for major projects, saying governments have a responsibility to provide certainty for investors.
The premier-designate said he wants British Columbians to view Woodfibre LNG’s planned first export shipment next year as the beginning of broader opportunities for resource development and investment across the province.
The comments align with several recent calls for expanded support of the natural gas sector in Northeast B.C.
On Thursday, Trevor Bolin, mayor of Fort St. John, urged municipalities across British Columbia to reconsider restrictions on natural gas use and recognize the industry’s contribution to jobs, investment and public revenues.
Bolin said revenues generated through responsible resource development help support schools, health care, roads and other services across the province.
The announcement also follows campaign commitments from Doerkson to increase natural gas production in British Columbia and expand infrastructure needed to get resources to market.
The $200-million federal investment was announced as construction continues on the LNG export facility, which is expected to ship its first cargo from Howe Sound in 2027.