A new Léger poll, commissioned by the Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment (CAPE) and Environmental Defence, reveals that just 18% of Canadians want their tax dollars used to support the construction of LNG infrastructure, particularly when these projects are largely foreign-owned. The findings come as Canada’s first LNG export terminal prepares to open in the coming weeks, and reflect growing public dissatisfaction with government subsidies for fossil fuel projects.
The LNG Canada project, a $40-billion venture involving Shell, Petronas, and other foreign companies, has already received significant taxpayer support, including corporate tax breaks, electricity rate reductions, and exemptions on steel tariffs. Critics argue that these funds should be directed toward projects that benefit Canadians directly, such as healthcare and renewable energy.
In B.C., healthcare is the public’s top priority, with 93% of respondents ranking it in their top three funding concerns. Only 10% of British Columbians support further funding for oil and gas infrastructure. Additionally, 54% of B.C. residents believe LNG development should be paused until an independent health impact assessment is completed. Experts warn that LNG and fracking operations are linked to serious health risks like asthma, heart disease, and some cancers, contributing to rising healthcare costs.
With additional federal funds allocated to LNG projects and more on the horizon, environmental and health groups continue to push for a reevaluation of the government’s commitment to fossil fuel projects. They argue that the priority should be on cleaner, cheaper energy alternatives that don’t carry the same health risks.
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