Re: “2 governments are rupturing long friendship,” column, April 18.
As I read Les Leyne’s column about the state of affairs between B.C. and Alberta an image comes to mind. Two roommates erupt into fistfights about the need to invest in a fire extinguisher and smoke detectors — while the house is on fire.
Comments inevitably return to the economy, legislation and jobs. Very necessary concerns in a just and prospering society.
However, when fire becomes evident — and I think British Columbians, more than some, have grasped that reality — all actions should rise to the level of emergency to address the fire.
Climate change requires that we not carry on living as we have. When one of those roommates is unable or unwilling to acknowledge the impending threat, then the other has to stand firm in their conviction.
British Columbians would do well to extend a sympathetic hand and work toward real solutions that will ameliorate the consequences that a boom-bust economy brings. Perhaps we need a Unity Rally like the one in 1995 in Montreal for Canadians to support Albertans as they move forward.
Albertans — though the new government doesn’t support it — need to rise above immediate threats and old economies, look to innovative solutions and acknowledge that the house is on fire.
Sandra Slobodian
Esquimalt
