We are fortunate to still have the beautiful Pacific Ocean, BUT...
The same system that allowed the devastation in the Gulf of Mexico is in place here. Freshwater tissue company is also asking for special favors and exceptions to the law. The Samoa Mill has a long history of violations. Fines have been reduced. Variances have been granted. There is a long list of breakdowns. The revised water permit makes exceptions to the law. If the permit is passed, Freshwater Tissue still doesn't have to be in compliance until 2013.
Environmental regulations are supposed to be about protecting people and the ecosystem not about supporting corporations. We are sympathetic to the needs of the mill workers. But is the political pressure that is pushing this permit all about the workers or about profit for Freshwater Tissue Company. Certainly workers are not going to get rich working for the mill. Are those jobs worth polluting our Ocean?