Cameron urges slow down for oilsands expansion
Posted Sep 29, 2010 2:31 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
Movie producer James Cameron says First Nations need to be more involved in oilsands development decisions and expansion needs to slow down.
Speaking in Edmonton, he said that the oilsands are a gift to Canada and Alberta, but they will become a curse if not managed properly.
Cameron says he’s practical enough to understand the “powerful economic forces” that drive the oilsands, but he also says it’s critical that everyone consider the potential fallout of an industry still in its infancy.
“To learn the issues, connect with these issues, don’t live in denial. I know everyone has to pay their mortgage, but don’t live in denial, this thing is big, it’s huge in Alberta, according to Cameron, You guys are going to be out in the center of a spotlight here that’s going to be a world spotlight and I think the world is going to look to Canada for leadership.”
Before Cameron, a number of First Nations leaders spoke, expressing thanks to Cameron for visiting and listening to their concerns.
He adds it’s important that studies into the effects of development are done by independent scientists and not energy companies.
Premier Ed Stelmach says he doesn’t know if he has changed the mind of film director James Cameron about the oilsands. But he says it was worth the time to visit with the Hollywood mogul to discuss the benefits and environmental impacts of the industry.
Stelmach adds Cameron did not ask him for a moratorium on oilsands expansion.
