BC Hydro is seeking an injunction against protesters at its Site C dam project, claiming they have been preventing contractors from completing their work on the south bank of the Peace River since Jan. 4.
In a petition filed in B.C. Supreme Court, Hydro asks for an injunction to prevent protesters from impeding work on the site and from threatening or intimidating contractors. The utility is also asking for punitive as well as general damages and costs.
“We respect the right of individuals to express their opinions about the Site C project in a safe and lawful manner,” said BC Hydro community relations manager Dave Conway.
“However, BC Hydro is taking these steps because we have an obligation to ratepayers to keep the project on schedule and on budget.”
Conway said the Crown corporation has environmental approvals and permits in place to do the work and is “hopeful that the situation can be resolved.”
The notice of civil claim mentions a small group of eight people — members of the Peace Valley Landowner Association, the Treaty 8 Tribal Association, the Prophet River First Nation and the owner of a nearby equestrian centre, among others.