Eby Defends Minister's Criticism of LNG Expansion

British Columbia Premier David Eby claims that his government's 'big tent' approach allowed Minister Kelly Greene to publicly criticize the expansion of a liquefied natural gas plant in her riding, despite the project being a key part of their economic plans.

The Tilbury LNG project has raised concerns about safety and environmental impact, with FortisBC moving forward with the next phase. Greene's statement denouncing the decision cited 'safety concerns' and stated that she had been listening to local residents for months, raising issues at every opportunity.

Eby said his government worked together on Greene's statement, allowing her to continue advocating for her community's interests. However, this departure from traditional cabinet solidarity has raised questions about the premier's motivations and the split within the NDP base.

Political theorist David Black suggests that Eby is attempting to accommodate dissenting voices amid falling poll numbers and a 'massive split' in the party. The province had previously announced an order-in-council exempting the project from regulatory approvals, but it remains subject to other permitting requirements.