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Yukon open for business? What a crock

Yukon open for business? What a crock Over the years I have sent many letters to media and politicians about our Yukon economy. Most seem content to carry on as beneficiaries of federal government transfer payments. I would assume that most of the anti-f

Over the years I have sent many letters to media and politicians about our Yukon economy. Most seem content to carry on as beneficiaries of federal government transfer payments. I would assume that most of the anti-fracking protesters were government employees, retired school teachers, students and so forth. Oh, I forgot to mention professional environmental activists, whatever they are. These same people also protest mining and logging. First Nations also seem to protest everything unless there is a compensation package involved.

During the Peel issue I suggested to my MLA that photos of these protesters should be taken. Once they have been identified, their names and what they do should be published. Do they drive vehicles or bicycles? Do they live in houses or caves? Do they own computers or pots and pans?

Pretty well everything used by modern man comes from mining, logging and the petroleum industry. To continually protest all forms of industry is labelling oneself as a hypocrite. Due to our reliance on federal transfers, the Yukon has generated an exceptionally large outbreak of NIMBY (Not In My Back Yard).

Our politicians in general tend to lack backbone. Perhaps this has something to do with getting in the pensionable time? We keep hearing that the Yukon is open for business. What a crock!

No matter which resource-based industry you may attempt, you first have to get past the bureaucratic hurdle. Last winter I spent much time trying to add a claim to my water licence, which had historically been included. The whole thing became a complete circle jerk. In the end, I accomplished nothing.

Brad Mackinnon

Haines Junction