World Energy GH2 held a drop-in session yesterday in Stephenville at Dymond International Airport to share an update regarding an amendment to the company’s environmental assessment submission for their proposed wind energy project.  In November of last year, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador said it needed more information from the company before it could decide on the future of the project in western Newfoundland.  Interim Chief Jenny Brake attended the session on behalf of Qalipu First Nation.

“I’m happy about the additional work being done with the environmental assessment,” she said, “I know a lot of folks feel that shovels should be in the ground by now, but this is a major project, and we need to consider the impacts on the next seven generations.  This due diligence by World Energy can only lead to better outcomes.”

She noted that one example of that includes an updated plan to relocate 12 of the proposed wind turbines in Cape St. George to avoid water areas, along with a number of other adjustments to the original plan.

The gathering demonstrated a continued high level of interest from surrounding communities and was attended by local Chiefs, municipal leaders and many other stakeholders.  Interim Chief Brake noted that it was a good opportunity for her to connect and better understand the concerns of communities.

“I’m committed to understanding the unique needs of communities and I’m pleased to be engaged in the conversation.  It’s important that we move forward together, in a good way.”

Interim Chief Brake invites interested Band members to tune in to Monday Mornings Live this coming Monday at 9:00 AM on the Qalipu First Nation Facebook Page where she will chat with host Paul Pike about the event and what is coming up next for this significant project in our territory.