[OT]Re: [oclug]Port 4662

[Jon Earle]

On 23 Jan 2003, Shad Young wrote:

> Well, current (revised) estimates show a net job loss of 200,000 and a
> loss in the gross domestic product of about 1%. Natural gas prices are
> expected to raise 14% and electricity by 2% (worst case scenario as
> described by the Alberta economic commission)

Well, I use propane for some of my applicances, so let's assume that my
bills for propane will also go up 14%.  That'll add about $80 to my yearly
bill.  Electricity will add about $54.  These figures are based on your
estimates.  So, $134 out of my pocket and into... the hands of corporate
shareholders and power company execs.  Where do I see the benefit?  I've
already reduced my consumption as much as I can without resorting to
candles and cognac.  My lights use compact florescent bulbs, my
heating/cooling is geothermal based, my range, HW heater and dryer use
propane and I have an efficient woodstove for supplemental heat.  I've
already done my part for Queen and country... what benefit do I realize
from handing over another $134 to the energy companies?  Zip.  Just means
I have less rum and cigarette money at the end of the week.

> > With Kyoto, we have nothing.  "Reduce outputs."  Okay, best guess is
> > that half a million folks will be out of work.
>
> Why do you suppose there will be mass layoffs? I have read nothing
> claiming that that would occur, not even by Alberta. The EU supports

The claim has been reported many times by the media in the past couple of
months.  Perhaps the government is revising figures to strengthen their
case for supporting the accord, but until recently, the Liberals
themselves were claiming half a million.

> Unfortunately, it seems you are looking for guarantees. There are none.

No, not looking for guarantees, but I don't think a proper plan of action,
a roadmap if you will, is an unreasonable request.

Cheers!
Jon

---
Jon Earle

SAVE FARSCAPE http://www.savefarscape.com/

Q: Could your economic future be negatively affected by Canada's
ratification of Kyoto?