New Democrat MLAs Susie Chant and Bowinn Ma will host a telephone town hall with B.C. Premier David Eby will answer questions and concerns from people in North Vancouver. Those interested can pre-register at this link.
“Join us for a conversation about the issues impacting our communities in North Vancouver and across British Columbia. Your voice matters, and together, we can address concerns about housing, healthcare, and the cost of living,” said Susie Chant, MLA for North Vancouver – Seymour.
On Monday, May 13, at 6:30 p.m., people from North Vancouver who have pre-registered for the event will have an opportunity to ask questions that will be addressed by the Premier or one of their local MLAs.
MLA Bowinn Ma said they are excited to facilitate this inclusive discussion where people across North Vancouver can ask the Premier and us questions about the issues that matter most to our communities. “I look forward to answering questions, listening to folks’ concerns, and opening the conversation.”
Once registered, participants will receive a call to the registered phone number just before the town hall begins. They will be prompted to join and ask a question if they would like.
Dear Premier Eby,
A record high number of bears have been killed by the BCCOS in 2023. It is important to note that the government’s statistics do not reflect the number of orphaned cubs killed or left to die. Due to the growing public concern about the well-being of black bears in their communities, the District of North Vancouver unanimously voted in favour of a motion brought forth by Councillor Betty Forbes.
(The motion calls for a *independent public oversight board to oversee the conduct of the B.C. Conservation Officer Service.it also calls for *a Audit by the Auditor General to assess this Agencies conduct. Finally the motion *mandates the pick-up, assessment and care of all orphaned bear cubs by a qualified independent Veterinarian).
This was followed by a unanimous vote in support of the DNV Resolution by West Vancouver and Lions Bay. This sentiment was further echoed at the LMLGA on May 2, 2024.
My questions to you are: How do you intend to address the killing of so many mother bears, resulting in a rising number of orphaned cubs left to die? What will happen when forest fires occur again, pushing bear families out of their habitat to seek safety in our communities? Prince George serves as a disturbing example where families of bears seeking safety in the city were met with ruthless and lethal force by the BCCOS. There were over 24 orphaned cubs that were picked up for rehab, but many more were left to die or simply were unaccounted for. The public would like to know how the government is planning on promoting more humane and ethical treatment of black bears and meeting its responsibility to the community members who advocate for kindness and compassion for bear cubs.
Thank you.
Ellie Lamb
BearsMatter