Prince Rupert, BC – The first LNG 'community office' has opened in Prince Rupert…

With BC's Minister of Natural Gas Development on hand for the celebration, Pacific Northwest LNG launched what it hopes will be a contact point with the local community – the office features infographics explaining the LNG process, electronic access to the project website and information about contracting opportunities and employment.  Pacific Northwest is a proposed LNG export facility estimated to be valued at between $9- and $11-billion dollars on nearby Lelu Island, within the District of Port Edward, that would export natural gas produced by Progress Energy in northeast BC.

Speaking at yesterday's ceremony, President Greg Kist said, "Today's official opening of our community office is representative of our commitment to the communities, including First Nations, in northwest British Columbia."  When the office opens full-time in January, Kist says residents and businesses will be able to use it as a place to gather more information on the proposed project, have their questions answered, and discuss potential employment opportunities during the construction and operational phases.

"This project has the potential to bring hundreds of jobs to the Northwest and be a long-term engine for economic growth in this region," says Minister Rich Coleman.  "By opening this community office, Pacific Northwest LNG is making it easier for residents to learn more about the project and get involved."

The Mayor of Port Edward, Dave MacDonald, says the District Council wants to make sure local residents are first in line for LNG jobs and the community office will be a great resource.