Interestingly enough, those people delusional enough to believe that the E&N railway has a future, do in fact have much in common with those of us that believe the railway is finished and that it’s time to create other uses for the corridor.
John Harding’s editorial (Jan. 29) summarized it perfectly. The ICF and its CEO are the problem. Over the past eight years or so, this non-profit charity has accomplished nothing other than to run what was left of the railway into oblivion, all the while receiving very generous compensation.
It is unbelievable that our elected officials, at all three levels, have allowed this organization to squander the potential of this wonderful community-owned asset, while at the same time agreeing to pour in an additional $20 million, allowing the ICF to continue this charade.
Now we have the mayor of Nanaimo with a very conflicted interest, representing the RDN at the ICF. That being the city of Nanaimo and the best interest of all the other communities north of his city, who have been asked to share the financial burden, but will in all likelihood never receive any benefits.
Yes, both sides of this issue, those that support the railway and those that don’t, have the same impediment, the ICF and its board.
Jim BergotQualicum Beach