The abrupt resignation of British Columbia Premier Gordon Campbell is not likely to affect negotiations regarding potential agreements banning mining and drilling in the headwaters of the Flathead River, according to Gov. Brian Schweitzer.
In February, Schweitzer signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Campbell prohibiting future development of coal, oil and gas in southeastern B.C., north of Glacier National Park. The agreement also halted ongoing exploration in the area by several mining companies.
In an interview with the Beacon, Schweitzer said he did not think Campbell stepping down would reduce the effectiveness of the MOU.
“There’s the will and desire of the people of British Columbia and the people of Canada to see this through,” Schweitzer said.
Campbell’s resignation comes amid plummeting public approval following his effort to implement a “harmonized sales tax” in B.C., a kind of value-added tax that appears to be hitting consumers hard, according to reports by Canadian news organizations. The Canadian Environment Minister Jim Prentice also announced his resignation Nov. 4.
Despite the shuffles in positions that could impact North Fork protection, Schweitzer said talks have been ongoing between the governments of Montana and B.C., and the Canadian and U.S. governments on the issue. Schweitzer said he has worked hard to cultivate good relationships with the heads of Canada’s provinces neighboring Montana, and he expects to be able to build a working relationship with Campbell’s successor.
“I built one with Gordon Campbell and I’ll build one with the next one,” Schweitzer said.