This summer was a challenging one, but it was inspiring to witness firsthand the outstanding efforts our communities made to support one another through the most destructive wildfire season in the history of our province.
Now, as the fall Legislative session begins, I look forward to bringing all that I have learned back to Victoria, and ensuring the voices of Cariboo-Chilcotin are heard in the legislature.
Clearly, as evidenced by the increasing severity of our wildfire seasons, and the increasing frequency of climate-related disasters, it’s time for a renewed approach to emergency management in our province.
On October 6, the government announced its long-anticipated emergency and disaster management legislation.
This is something our BC United caucus has long been calling for and I’m glad the government has finally taken notice.
Unfortunately, I, like many, have been left disappointed with the contents of this bill, as it fails to address the most pressing concerns British Columbians have highlighted with our emergency response.
Perhaps the biggest disappointment with this legislation is that it comes with no clear solutions for solving the significant issues related to disaster financial assistance (DFA) and compensation.
People depend on the government for relief and support after a disaster, and the Ombudsperson investigation on the 2021 disasters clearly reveals that this government has been unable to effectively deliver support to British Columbians in need.
It is doubtful that this bill as tabled would help any of the people who were let down by emergency services through this year’s fire season.
Thankfully, BC United has announced a bold strategy for reforming British Columbia’s wildfire preparedness, response and recovery.
The plan consists of made-in-B.C. technological solutions, increased spending on prevention measures and modernizing the disaster financial assistance program.
British Columbians cannot afford another season of outdated wildfire response.
Our province needs timely action that will deliver meaningful and lasting results.
READ MORE: Quesnel Rangers deployed to wildfire zones
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