For Canadian politics it’s not about “standing up to Quebec”. It’s about votes. It’s not about enforcing the law in BC. It’s about votes.
CliffFletcher has mentioned it a few times and he’s absolutely right. The cold truth is that the reality is many people do not want oil and gas as a part of Canada’s economic future.
In my mind the only solution here is for mass media / mass marketing campaigns. Get the broad majority public on board with these large vital infrastructure projects that are required to leverage our souring relationship with the United States.
These infrastructure projects achieve so many key Canada first objectives. They are the tactically intelligent play. They’re great for the west’s (and Canada’s) economy, and hilariously they are the most environmentally friendly path forward!
CAPP, industry, the province of Alberta and the government of Canada should all be educating Canadians with as many facts as possible on this defining and pivotal issue. Explain how critical this is to the economy. Explain how it will impact quality of life moving forward for all Canadians. Explain the justifications in as simple, widespread and passionate as possible. Critically- explain the actual risks of these projects to the best of your ability.
The trick is turning the tide on public opinion. That way you can retain votes AND get these key projects built with confidence from the Canadian people. And do it quickly.
|