DELTA, B.C. — A noisy group of placard-carrying protesters greeted politicians for what was supposed to be a celebration at the start of construction for the George Massey Tunnel replacement project.
Before the news conference began, protesters took over the podium and held a mock news event, forcing Transport Minister Todd Stone and Delta Mayor Lois Jackson to take their event inside a nearby fire hall.
Stone told reporters that there is widespread public support for the new 10-lane, $3.5-billion bridge to replace the aging tunnel connecting Richmond to Delta.
Minister Stone says election will present a choice -- those wanting projects like this vs people like those "outside" (protesters) pic.twitter.com/U59EoQsrzx
— Martin MacMahon (@martinmacmahon) April 5, 2017
The minister says it has taken four years of consultation with First Nations, municipal and regional governments, and a tremendous amount of technical work to get to the point where construction can now begin.
Stone says his government is supporting the many employees who will be working on the project, and his Liberal party is taking a stand when it comes to continuing to invest in infrastructure to meet the demands of B.C.'s growing economy.
"Where is [Transportation Minister] Todd [Stone]" -- will be interesting to see how newser goes here... pic.twitter.com/suIPRDUeda
— Martin MacMahon (@martinmacmahon) April 5, 2017
The minister says protesters are entitled to present their opinion during the May 9 election, adding that's the beauty of living in a democracy and having elections.
"We absolutely respect the views, the opinions of folks who do not support this project and we respect their rights to make those views known."
Protesters here to oppose George Massey Tunnel Replacement groundbreaking. pic.twitter.com/Nj86r1zjfc
— Martin MacMahon (@martinmacmahon) April 5, 2017
Photo: NEWS 1130
