Thompson Rivers prof to speak regarding the proposed Ajax mine

KAMLOOPS – A Thompson River University professor is exploring the the social impact the proposed Ajax mine would have on Kamloops and is holding a public lecture on his academic effort.

Dr. Michael Mehta says when exploring the possibilities of new financial or economic ventures, communities fail to take the so-called soft sciences into account and he argues the proposed mine has the potential to generate conflict between residents and polarize neighbourhoods. He is also exploring how attitudes about the environment can expand into more thoughtful conversation about other issues within the city and region.

Already a contentious issue, the Ajax mine has drawn fierce debate from both sides.

This past summer, the Kamloops Physicians for a Healthy Environment said the air quality in the city exceeded provincial maximums. The group is not in favour of a mine so close to the city. Recently the group Kamoops Moms for Clean Air were granted a round table discussion group by city council to monitor and discuss Kamloops' air quality. Their concerns also stem from the proposed Ajax mine. 

Dr. Mehta's public lecture will be on Sunday, April 19 at 2 p.m. at Thompson Rivers' Alumni Theatre.

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