About 140 La Broquerie residents raised concerns and debated with Manitoba Hydro representatives Tuesday night, at the first of many scheduled open houses to discuss the Manitoba-Minnesota Transmission Project.

La Broquerie Reeve, Lewis Weiss says La Broquerie constituents feel betrayed after unanimously voting for Route 207, because

Manitoba Hydro Representative explains rationale for proposed preferred Route 208 to La Broquerie residents.
of having much less impact on people and animals, and then having Manitoba Hydro present Route 208 as their preferred transmission route. “Route 207, which we are pressuring them to change it to, would have very little affect on humans, as it would go through the bush, mostly on crown land and where there already are lines. If they go the 208 Route, which is right through our community, there would be a lot of concern for hog and dairy operations, residences, schools and human health.”

La Broquerie farmer Alain Fournier, says he was insulted when the argument for Route 208 seemed to focus on preserving plants and wildlife ahead of humans, and would like to see the actual scale of how much wildlife will be affected. Fournier says Route 208 would see the transmission line run right through the community including his family's designated heritage farm, which was established back in 1899 and his parents Bernard and Marge Fournier still farm. “We have our entire life invested here, and Manitoba Hydro has nothing invested here.”

Albert Bedard and his wife, Monique have lived on their family farm since 1949, and just built a brand new house three years ago. Bedard says after ignoring the community's vote and listening to the rationale for proposed Route 208, he doesn't hold out much hope that Manitoba Hydro will even take their concerns into consideration. “It's a bitter pill to swallow since this seems to be decided and finalized already. If Route 208 is the preferred route, the transmission line will be 200 feet from my living room window.”

La Broquerie residents directly impacted by the preferred route will meet with Manitoba Hydro representatives one-on-one this weekend.Manitoba Hydro Public Affairs Manager, Bill Henderson says he was pleased with the responsive turn-out, and understands residents' concerns regarding the close proximity of the transmission lines and the electro magnetic fields (EMFs) to the community. “We encourage people to take that (provided information) and become informed and recognize that what we propose is well within internationally accepted standards and should not pose a risk to human health.” Henderson thanks the people of La Broquerie for taking the time to come and share their views on the project.

The next area open houses are scheduled as follows:
February 24 - Ste. Anne, Seine River Banquet Centre, 80A Arena Rd
March 11 - Richer, Richer Young at Heart Community Club, Dawson Rd at Hwy 302
March 12 - Dugald, Community Centre, 544 Holland St