ANNUAL AWARDS
Business community gathers at Dwight Hall PAGE 8
RIDING RUNNERS
Federal election candidates seek support PAGE 11 to 14
Trustee contenders answer questions
Both qSD candidates have extensive experience within education system
TANYA HILL thill@preak.com
One empty qathet School District (qSD) trustee seat will be filled this month. Eligible voters can cast their ballot for a preferred candidate in the upcoming by-election on April 12. As per tradition, qathet Teachers’ Association (qTA) sponsored a qSD trustee candidate forum, which was held at Brooks Secondary School library on April 1.
The forum, moderated by Brooks teacher Jonathan Dyck, saw both contenders, Gretchen Conti and Guy Chartier, present a case in front of the audience as to why they would make the best choice to be a trustee.
Dyck asked candidates from a bank, some pre-submitted questions and questions were received from the audience.
Chartier is currently executive director of qathet Division of Family Practice and has spent more than a decade teaching physical education. He also had an opportunity to work as an
education assistant for qSD.
Conti is currently an education assistant with qSD, a member of the Westview Parental Advisory Council (PAC) and Westview representative for the District PAC (DPAC).
Chartier focused on the many practical workings of the role of a trustee, such as the best way to implement the 2023 to 2028 strategic plan, overseeing financial decisions, and setting policies and employing staff to ensure effective operations. He emphasized that one of the main roles of a trustee is to support and hold the superintendent accountable for strategic plans implementation.
“This is very exciting for this community,” said Chartier. “Paul Mackenzie is just joining us [as superintendent of schools] as of April and this is the person who actually makes things happen.”
Conti said the current school board has created a progressive and responsive strategic plan.
“The role of a trustee is to support the strategic plan, listen to school and community concerns, advocate for educational needs, collaborate with partner groups and build consensus on the board to serve the best interest of all students,” said Conti.
The following are a some of the questions
Multicultural showcase and fundraiser celebrates diversity
Organizer invites folks from all backgrounds to share their traditional song, food and dance
TANYA HILL
thill@prpeak.com
Wu Woom means to sing in ayajuthem, and that’s what the 14th annual Wu Woom Festival is all about, according to organizer and spirit singer Cyndi Pallen.
“I love to sing, and there’s not much to do in Powell River, so I started this festival,” said Pallen. “Our goal was to celebrate cultural diversity within the Powell River community through
songs, dance and food.”
The multicultural showcase and yearly fundraiser is open to the greater qathet community and Tla’amin members, said Pallen, and will take place at Tla’amin Salish Centre gym, April 19, with doors opening at 5:30 pm.
Pallen said organizers have invited Scottish pipers, Zumba dancers, a Danish singer and a couple of choirs from town, but are open to having other artists who wish to share their cultural background through songs or traditional dance, or simply play an instrument.
“The evening will begin with our Tla’amin drummers and singers,” said Pallen. “Spirit singers will also be sharing traditional songs of Tla’amin people. We will also have songs from
Lillooet and Squamish singers who are joining us for this special evening.”
Pallen said over the years they have invited friends and family from all different backgrounds to come and sing, including an artist from Vietnam who performed at last year’s festival.
“We have three French singers, we have someone from Africa coming to perform and musicians from Korea,” said Pallen.
Mara Park is one of the musicians from Korea, and a Wu Woom Festival volunteer.
“We will play a variety of music,” said Park. “One dance song, a kind of a tango, on cello, violin and viola.”
Pallen is inviting people to bring something from their culture, whether it’s a song
or to share their food.
“We’ll be selling Indian tacos in the kitchen and bannock dogs,” said Pallen. “We are happy to say, this
evening will be filled with performers from all walks of life sharing musical acts, songs and dance, from their cultural background.”
Seat seekers see school system strengths
asked at the forum:
Why are you running for the position of trustee?
Conti: “I feel I am well positioned for the job. My work on PAC and DPAC have given me opportunities to participate in conversations about policy. Working for qSD as an EA has allowed me to build relationships with principals, teachers and EAs, as well as clerical staff, custodial staff, bus drivers, maintenance, students and families.
“I understand their daily challenges and have an idea of the many considerations that go into a decision. This understanding will make me an effective communicator and will help me find common ground when diverse interests are involved.”
Chartier: “I believe that an effective board of education leads to a strong and resilient school district, fulfilled and dedicated employees and, ultimately, a positive and nurturing environment for students. I am therefore excited about
the prospect of contributing my knowledge and skills to upholding the promise of public education in our community.”
What do you see that needs improvement in the district?
Chartier: “From a board of education perspective, it seems as if our areas of improvements are: recruitment and retention of staff to ensure not only that we have enough qualified staff but that we have the best possible match between student needs and staff competencies; long range facilities plan to ensure we have school facilities that are addressing the issues related to overcapacity and aging buildings; inclusive education to ensure every student can succeed, irrespective of aptitude, ability and background.”
Conti: “Despite the hard work and dedication of skilled educators, some students are being left behind. There is a lot of work being done at the primary level to ensure students master foundational skills in math, reading and writing.
“However, there are still students at the intermediate and second-
ary levels who struggle. Creating programs, increasing funding and adding more staff to work with these students is key to ensuring that not only the vulnerable students get meaningful education, but also that all students feel challenged and supported in their education.”
What processes could trustees put in place to ensure that money is kept as close to students and classrooms as possible?
Conti: “We should continue to implement cost-benefit analysis for existing and proposed programs, policies and projects. Systematically reviewing expenditures to determine if the benefits justify the expense is paramount to ensuring that money is spent wisely and with purpose.”
Chartier: “One of the most important roles of trustees is to connect strategic priorities and finances through the establishment of the school district’s annual budget. For the school year 2024 to 25, the amended annual budget, which was $54.4 million, allocated 81 per
cent to instruction, five per cent to district administration, 12 per cent to operations/maintenance and two per cent to transportation and housing.
“It would be valuable for trustees to demonstrate the connection between its six priorities [ethics of learning, curiosity, connection, self-determination, truth and reconciliation, integrity and responsibility] and the budget allocations.”
What do you see as the strengths of the district?
Chartier: “From a board of education perspective, it seems as if our strengths are: approved a strategic plan for 2023-28, which includes a commitment to truth and reconciliation, effective inclusive education and excellence in literacy/numeracy instruction; conducted a major board policy review in 2024/25; hired a new superintendent who will be starting in April 2025.”
Conti: “The individuals who work hard to build relationships and provide a meaningful education for students are the district’s great-
To purchase a ticket ahead of time contact Cyndi Pallen at 604. 414.3874. Tickets will also be available at the door.
est strength. We also have a strong strategic plan that supports and highlights Indigenous voices and works to decolonize public education. The strategic plan prioritizes safety and inclusion for all students regardless of ability, culture, religion, sexual orientation or gender identity.
“I support the Environmental Stewardship and Sustainability Action Plan, which lays out concrete steps that the district can take to improve our environmental footprint and lead by example. I’d also like to highlight the current programs in the district that promote student agency, like the EcoTeams, the Gender and Sexuality Alliance, and Brooks band and choir.”
General voting in the by-election will be open to qualified electors of qSD on Saturday, April 12, between 8 am and 8 pm at the school board office, located at 4351 Ontario Avenue.
For more information about the candidates, go to gretchenconti4trustee.ca and guychartier.ca.
CONNECTING CULTURES: [From left] Wu Woom Festival organizer and spirit singer Cyndi Pallen, Tla’amin elder and spirit singer Doreen Point, and festival volunteers Mara Park and Nadeen Sierpina from the Métis community. TANYA HILL PHOTO
Tax rates introduced
City councillors consider two options for taxation in 2025, opting for maintaining traditional ratios
PAUL GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com
City of Powell River’s 2025 property tax rate options have been introduced, with a proposed 8.63 per cent increase in taxes for an average single-family dwelling over 2024.
At the April 1 committee of the whole meeting, chief financial officer Mallory Denniston introduced the rates with two options. The first was for maintaining the status quo on tax rates for all categories, and the second proposes to provide a rate adjustment to the business classification, dropping the amount businesses would pay, but providing for another three per cent increase for residential taxpayers.
Denniston said council had adopted the 2025 property tax rate bylaw on March 27 to establish the 2025 levy at $26.8 million, which is a 9.5 per cent increase over 2024.
She said council would now be dealing with the property tax rates bylaw, with both needing to be adopted before May 15.
Denniston said direction from council was to continue to use the current property tax rates setting
methodology, along with an option to decrease the business class property tax ratio to three times the residential property class amount from 3.7 times. She said the second option would provide for a 17 per cent lower rate for business, and a three per cent higher cost for the remaining classes.
“In dollar terms, option two would result in a further increase of $95 for an average single-family dwelling, for a total property tax increase of $382, instead of $287 under option one,” said Denniston.
“The report recommendation is that members of the committee direct staff to prepare the 2025 property tax rates bylaw in accordance with option one. This recommendation is on the basis that the property tax rate-setting methodology would add additional volatility to property taxpayers, and in this time of high uncertainty around the Catalyst Paper Tis’kwat mill site’s property value and class.”
Denniston said the first three readings of the tax rates bylaw would be presented to council on April 17, and it would be up for adoption on May 8. She said amounts from other taxing authorities such as qathet Regional District, qathet Regional Hospital District and qathet School District are anticipated to be provided to the city by April 11, at which time, taxpayers can get good, estimated calculations using the city’s online property tax calculator.
Councillor Cindy Elliott said she would like to lower the cost for
CITY COUNCIL BRIEFS
Issues permit
A temporary use permit to allow a craft liquor distillery with accessory bottling use at 3225 Cariboo Avenue has been granted by City of Powell River Council.
The building and property is situated at the Beach Gardens Resort and Marina. The temporary use permit was granted at the March 20 meeting of city council and is valid for three years.
The permit is subject to three conditions, including registration of a restrictive covenant on title prohibiting ingress to and egress from the distillery lot to Cariboo Avenue for the term of the permit. The sec-
businesses. She asked if there were other ways to lower business taxation other than through tax rate.
Denniston said unfortunately, it is very difficult.
“In short, no, there is no other way around, other than a decrease in services,” added Denniston.
Mayor Ron Woznow made a motion that members of the committee direct staff to prepare the property tax rates bylaw as outlined in option one of the April 1, 2025, staff report titled 2025 Property Tax Rates Options and adjusted for any changes reflected in the 2025 revised assessment roll, for consideration of first three readings at its regular council meeting on April 17.
Councillor George Doubt said he was in favour of the motion and had looked through the options.
“While it is attractive to help out small businesses and businesses in general by reducing their tax rates, the fact is that when we have a fiveyear financial plan, there is a reve-
ond is registration of an access easement on the title of 0 Thunder Bay Street to secure ingress and egress from the lot on which the distillery is located. The third condition is that the fire chief and chief building inspector are satisfied that the proposed development meets the BC Building Code and BC Fire Code.
Amends budget
A bylaw to amend the City of Powell River 2024 five-year financial plan was adopted. The amended budget shows $24.5 million in property taxation, $307,683 in flat taxes, $195,798 in grant-in-lieu taxes,
nue requirement, and that revenue requirement will come from a mix of business, utilities, light industry, heavy industry and residences, and there is nowhere else to get the money,” said Doubt. “If you don’t take it from one place, you are going to take it from the other.
“Option two would result in another $100, and I’m not prepared to do that. If we are going to look at the future finances of the city, it is still a simple question. You have to pay for the services you get. If you want to pay less, we are going to have to decide to provide fewer services.”
Doubt said the tax rate is reasonable for the services the city provides.
Councillor and committee chair Rob Southcott said his understanding was that the city is not 100 per cent certain of the assessment value of the mill lands. He said if that is correct, could Denniston provide a date when council will know the mill’s classification with certainty.
$233,883 in utility company operating fees, $2.6 million in parcel taxes, $12.7 million in fees and charges, $18.8 million from government transfers, and $3.9 million from other revenue, for a total of $63.1 million.
Expenses in the amended 2024 budget show $8.2 million in general government services, $8.4 million in protective services, $7.1 million in transportation services, $1 million in environmental and health, $5.8 million in environmental development, $7.4 million in parks, recreation and culture, $2 million in water utility, $3 million in sewer utility, $1.2 million in fiscal services debt interest and $4.5 million in amorti-
Denniston said the city knows with certainty that the assessed value of the mill is about $82 million in the major industry classification. The uncertainty is that owners of the property have appealed the assessed value, she added.
“While it is under appeal, there is uncertainty,” said Denniston. “There is also uncertainty going into 2026 as to whether they will be considered major industry, or if the assessment might determine a different value.”
The motion made by Woznow was passed unanimously.
According to the staff report, under option one, in 2025, municipal property taxes for an average single-family dwelling are listed as $2,866, which is a $187 variance from 2024. Municipal flat tax remains steady at $50, sewer frontage charges go up $8 to $450, user fees go up $27 to $688, and total municipal taxes would amount to $4,054, which is up $322 from 2024.
zation and accretion, for total expenses of $48.5 million.
Adopts bylaw
Council adopted its code of conduct bylaw. The bylaw spells out foundational principles, governance principles, application, compliance with all laws, respect for process, general conduct, interactions with staff, interactions with the public and media, conduct of meetings, handling of confidential information, conflict of interest, gifts and use of public resources. The bylaw also outlines investigation, compliance and enforcement of the bylaw.
BYLAW PREPARATION: City of Powell River councillors pondered two options for setting tax rates for 2025, opting to go for the traditional tax rates, rather than one for lowering the business class tax rate and increasing all other classes. PAUL GALINSKI PHOTO
RCMP statistics revealed
Sergeant reports fourth quarter and year-end figures to city councillors
PAUL GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com
City of Powell River councillors were provided RCMP statistics for the fourth quarter of 2024, as well as year-end statistics, outlining crime trends for the qathet region.
At the April 1 committee of the whole meeting, Powell River RCMP operations non-commissioner officer, sergeant Graham Kerr, provided a detailed outline of statistics compiled last year.
The first item Kerr dealt with was calls for service. He said in the fourth quarter, there was a four per cent decrease in calls for service, compared to the same period in 2023. The overall calls for service increased by 257 calls during 2024, representing a four per cent increase when compared to all of 2023.
“The years 2024 and 2023 were fairly similar in terms of call volumes,” said Kerr.
Police checks for well-being were similar, with 582 calls in 2024 and 585 in 2023, according to Kerr. Mental Health Act calls decreased significantly in the fourth quarter and for the whole year. The fourth quarter saw a 38 per cent decrease
and the full-year statistics showed a 45 per cent decrease comparing 2024 to 2023.
“It’s a good improvement,” said Kerr.
Missing persons cases increased significantly in 2024, with 77 in 2024 and 36 in 2023, for a 73 per cent increase.
“These increases are largely due to a change in procedures,” said Kerr. “An example is with Lift [Community Services] supportive housing, they would call us more often when not seeing some of their participants for a given time period.”
In terms of overall persons crime, the fourth quarter saw a one per cent decrease, but the year’s statistics showed an increase of two per cent, from 427 in 2023 to 434 in 2024.
“This is pretty flat when compared to the previous year,” said Kerr.
Overall assaults increased by five per cent in 2024, with 202 in 2024 and 193 in 2023.
Sex offences had a 10 per cent decrease in the fourth quarter but a 19 per cent increase in the year overall, according to Kerr. There were 44 reported sex offences in 2024 and 37 in 2023.
Overall property crime was comparable in the fourth quarter and increased by three per cent, from 935 in 2023, to 962 in 2024.
Break and enters were also outlined by Kerr. He said that resi-
dential break-ins decreased by 28 per cent, from 40 in 2023, to 29 in 2024.
“That’s a positive reduction that we saw in 2024,” said Kerr.
Business break-ins decreased by two per cent year-over-year, with 40 in 2024 and 41 in 2023.
There was a 26 per cent decrease in theft under $5,000, with 119 in 2024 and 149 in 2023.
Shoplifting remained relatively stable, increasing by four per cent. In 2024, there were 96, compared to 92 in 2023.
Drug offences saw an increase in 2024, with 37 cases, compared to 20 in 2023. Kerr said overall drug investigations increased by 85 per cent when compared to all of 2023.
“There was a change in provincial drug laws in terms of decriminalization,” said Kerr. “We participated in more proactive investigations and people were reporting more.”
Drug trafficking increased by 33 per cent, from nine in 2023 to 12 in 2024, again attributed by Kerr to more proactive investigations. He then pointed out some investigations of note during the fourth quarter.
There was a drug trafficking investigation that involved a traffic stop of a suspicious vehicle. A vehicle search was conducted and the officer located brass knuckles, 21 grams of fentanyl, 37 grams of crystal meth, seven grams of cocaine, along with scales and packaging for trafficking, said
Kerr. The matter is still being investigated.
There was also a child luring investigation.
“It’s something we’re seeing more and more of,” said Kerr.
“A youth had been contacted through social media by an adult, resulting in an online romantic relationship. The suspect came to Powell River and met the youth in-person, was later confronted and fled the Powell River area. Our local investigators were able to identify the suspect and obtain assistance from another jurisdiction, and were able to apprehend that individual. That matter is still
before the courts.”
In terms of other updates, bodyworn cameras are confirmed for rollout in Powell River in June, said Kerr. He added that the detachment is to receive a new cadet, also in June. The general investigation section now has one corporal and one constable. Kerr said the plain clothes unit had been collapsed for the most part of the last five years.
“That will assist us in our most proactive investigations, as well as help us with any serious investigations,” said Kerr.
A police car has been replaced and another one will be replaced in August, according to Kerr.
REGIONAL DISTRICT BRIEFS
Organics revision
qathet Regional District will be examining removing yard waste from the free organics diversion program.
At the March 26 regional board meeting, the board referred a recommendation to staff that yard waste not be part of the free organics diversion program of the qathet Regional District solid waste management plan service and that the appropriate tipping fee be applied.
Adopts bylaw
The board adopted the Lund Community Centre temporary borrowing bylaw. The bylaw provides for the borrowing of an amount not exceeding $1,100,000 from the Municipal Finance Authority of British
Columbia to expand and upgrade the Lund Community Centre to serve the residents of the Northside Recreation Service.
Contribution included
The board has directed staff to include $240,000 in the 2025 subregional budget for the City of Powell River recreation service contribution and that the funding be incorporated into the 2025 to 2029 financial plan.
Fly-in permitted
At the March 26 committee of the whole meeting, the committee recommended that the regional board direct staff to prepare a letter of permission to Texada Arts, Culture and Tourism Society for the Texada Annual Fly-In at Texada Island Airport on July 27.
CRIME NUMBERS: Powell River RCMP sergeant Graham Kerr provided police statistics to City of Powell River councillors at a committee of the whole meeting, outlining the fourth quarter and year-end statistics. PAUL GALINSKI PHOTO
Lang Creek development outlined
Regional district planning committee supports plans and recommends them to regional board
PAUL GALINSKI
reporter@prpeak.com
qathet Regional District’s (qRD) planning committee is recommending the regional board express support to the ministry of transportation and transit regarding two strata-titled subdivisions in the Lang Creek area.
At the March 25 planning committee meeting, directors heard a presentation from Michael Rogers, professional land surveyor with
Polaris Land Surveying, and Jim Agius, Lang Creek Development LLP, regarding a 15-lot bare land strata subdivision and a 46-lot phased bare land strata subdivision in the area.
Agius said with investors from the Vancouver area, the 188-acre site has been purchased. He said it used to be referred to as Wolfson Bay and Mahood’s Beach and is now called Lang Creek. He said there is a 15-lot and a
46-lot subdivision planned for the property.
Rogers said with the bare land strata designation, the property owner actually owns land. He said, however, with any strata, there are shared resources, such as sewage systems and water systems.
He said with the waterfront portion, what is shared is the access road and a recreational facility, which includes access down to Wolfson Bay. On the upland portion, what will be shared is the access road, and a trail that provides access down to Lang Creek. Rogers said construction and maintenance of the roads is part of the strata and becomes the strata’s responsibility. The upland strata is a phased strata, said Rogers.
“What phasing does is it allows the developer to create a specific number of
lots at a time and complete the infrastructure needed for those lots,” he added. “The lots are sold and at a future date, the developer goes onto the next part of the development. It’s quite an undertaking to put in 40 lots at one time on the market. The province has allowed phases for development so they can actually get through a large development like this in a more reasonable manner.”
Agius said the first phase road is being punched in and preliminary percolation tests are being done for Vancouver Coastal Health. He said most of the test holes have been dug and the tests were to be underway shortly.
Rogers said a lot of work has been done with the ministry of transportation regarding access and traffic. Agius said there will be
two beach access trails and a parking lot as part of the development.
qRD Electoral Area C director Clay Brander said this development is going to be a big change for residents in Area C.
“A lot of people have been using the property for many years,” said Brander. “I just want to show my appreciation to Mr. Agius and his group for making efforts to mitigate some of the issues the public may have, especially adding the second beach access point to Mahood’s Beach because I know it is challenging to go from the trail you’ve created over to Mahood’s. I appreciate that and a lot of people appreciate that.”
Brander said his questions were around parking. He asked how many stalls were anticipated. He said people sometimes have to park on
the high side of the highway, which causes risk in crossing the highway. He also asked about restroom facilities.
Agius said there are no guidelines for the parking and how much should be supplied. He said plans were for compacted gravel. He said the developers have not entertained the installation of washroom facilities.
The committee recommended to the regional board that qRD advise the ministry of transportation and transit that it supports the application of both bare land stratas, subject to conditions. These included proof of water and septic servicing that meets provincial standards for each of the proposed strata lots.
The applicant also has to contract a qualified environmental professional to complete a riparian area assessment.
Clay Brander
Concurrent campaigns
Two upcoming elections have varying degrees of importance for qathet region voters.
This weekend, a new trustee for qathet School District (qSD) will be chosen. While the choice between the two candidates featured on page one and two of this issue is far less contentious than the six candidates North Island-Powell River constituents have to choose from in the upcoming federal election, qSD’s budget of more than $50 million is significant. Whoever comes out ahead between Gretchen Conti and Guy Chartier will be involved in decisions that affect current and future students in the system, and their parents.
As federal election candidates present their platforms, voters in North Island–Powell River will make their decisions without knowing if their cho-
VIEWPOINT
sen candidate will be part of a decision-making government, or only be a voice in opposition.
For some voters, it’s all about the party that represents their values most; the party leader or local candidate is not a determining factor. Others can be swayed by the specific person pursuing the top political job in the country.
But North Island-Powell River candidates have their own voices. The Peak has offered each an interview opportunity to share their positions on policies and needs of communities in the riding.
Candidates who have responded and conducted interviews are featured later in this issue. Pursuit of the others will continue as general election day approaches.
Credit rating downgrades signal loss of trust
When BC’s finance minister tabled a budget last month with record-breaking deficit and debt levels, she was asked if the sea of red ink drowning her fiscal plan would lead to a downgrade in the province’s credit levels.
“I won’t make a guess on credit rating,”
Brenda Bailey told the budget audience March 4. “But what I will say is that we are working closely with the credit rating agencies.”
Not closely enough, it would appear, as two of the biggest agencies boomeranged back last week with strong denunciations of the government’s lack of fiscal discipline.
“The increase in deficits and rising debt largely stems from provincial policy choices, which we view as evidence of a continued weakening in governance and fiscal and debt management, from high standings,” wrote Moody’s Ratings, which chopped BC down from an aa1 to aa2 rating. “We view this as a notable departure from the province’s historical approach of budgeting that focused on limiting the growth in debt or protecting its fiscal position. The lack of clarity by the government on a path back to balance further weakens fiscal management.”
S&P Global had similar concerns: “We
believe the province’s commitment to fiscal discipline and stability has wavered in recent years as BC has materially increased its spending for both operations and capital investment to unparalleled level,” wrote S&P, which dropped its rating from AA- to A+, marking the fourth downgrade in four years for the province.
The downgrades make it more expensive for the government to borrow to build projects like roads, hospitals and bridges. The province already spends more annually ($5 billion) on debt servicing costs than it does on its entire child welfare system.
Both rating agencies had a common complaint: BC had run deficits the previous two years, and now was projecting three more years, with no end in sight and not even a semblance of a plan to cut spending or get back to balance.
Bailey, though, seemed hesitant to accept the critique. She attempted to blame the international uncertainty caused by American tariffs. The ratings agencies did make reference to tariffs in their reports, but squarely and firmly laid the rationale for the downgrade at the feet of the NDP government’s spending choices.
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By Rob Shaw
The downplaying exercise continued into question period.
“We have gone from surplus and stable credit ratings under premier [John] Horgan to record deficits and four credit downgrades, all under the watch of this premier,” said BC Conservative finance critic Peter Milobar. “This in spite of the fact that there are record revenues coming to government on the backs of British Columbia taxpayers. A simple question to the premier: How high is an acceptable deficit for this government to tolerate?”
Bailey tried to dodge.
“It’s so important that we get back on a road to balance,” said Bailey. “But I want to point out to the member opposite that there is more than one kind of deficit. We inherited an incredible deficit in services and in infrastructure. We’ve been addressing that for British Columbians, and we’ll continue to do so.”
Milobar, as he’d done all week in the legislature on the carbon tax and other matters, got the better of the minister in the exchange.
“This premier inherited a $6 billion surplus,” he retorted, accurately describing the financial situation premier David Eby was
gifted by Horgan in 2022. The coming year’s $11 billion deficit is a more than $17 billion swing in fortunes within three years, all under the Eby administration.
The premier, for his part, seemed more willing to acknowledge the reality of the situation.
“I’ve noted the concerns of these credit rating agencies, which are concerns that I share,” Eby said last Thursday. “We have a significant deficit. We have committed to protect frontline services for British Columbians, to build hospitals, to build schools. We need that to be strong in British Columbia, and also we need a path to return to balance.”
Bailey has promised a cost-cutting and efficiency review, alongside a hiring freeze, to save money. The reviews have no defined scope or timeline, and the hiring freeze is already a Swiss cheese of exemptions.
Together, Bailey estimates the initiatives will save $300 million this year. That’s 0.3 per cent of overall spending — a sum bordering on irrelevant, and, in the case of the ratings agencies, basically equivalent to having no plan at all.
Rob Shaw covers BC politics for Glacier Media.
KELLY
SPORTS »
Division winners outscore Villa
VISL season concludes with match versus top team
SHANE CARLSON editor@prpeak.com
Fans had one more chance to cheer on Powell River Villa as the 2024/2025 Vancouver Island Soccer League (VISL) schedule concluded late last month at Timberlane Park. Already guaranteed to finished last in the 10-team top flight of VISL, relegation-bound Villa hosted the league’s top team, Vic West FC, to close out the campaign. The visitors had lost only one match all season (16-0-1) and led Division 1 by a commanding 14 points over second place Lakehill Victorian Painters (11-1-5). Villa was able to produce offence against the league leaders on Saturday, March 30, with goals from Solomon
Reghelin, Jerod Timothy and James Timothy. But Vic West’s offensive prowess was also on display as the visitors scored a handful of goals in a 5-3 win. Going into the game, 10thplace Villa (2-4-11) trailed ninth-place Sooke Celtic (4-4-
10) by six points, and eighthplace Nanaimo United (4-77) by nine points.
“Our first year back in Division 1 was the 2019/2020 season, so for five years we were able to stay up,” said Villa manager Chris McDonough.
“Unfortunately we have been relegated and will play next year in Division 2.”
Victoria Highlanders finished third in Division 1, followed by Bays United (fourth), Gorge FC (fifth), Comox Valley United (sixth) and Cowichan FC (seventh).
games at the 10-team
PAUL GALINSKI
CROSSWORD
FINAL MATCH: Powell River Villa players posed with manager Chris McDonough [standing, left] and coach Tony Leach [standing, right] prior to the final match of the Vancouver Island Soccer League season at Timberlane Park on March 29. KIM LEACH PHOTO
Chamber of commerce hands out awards
Business community gathers at Dwight Hall to recognize recipients for 2024
ANDREW BRADLEY PHOTOS
Powell River Chamber of Commerce hosted its business awards gala on Saturday, April 5, at Dwight Hall in Townsite.
Winners and runners-up were recognized for services provided in 2024 in 16 different categories during the annual event.
1. 32 Lakes Café and Bakery was chosen as Employer of the Year, while Point Group Hospitality was named runner-up in the same category.
2. Sebastian Clemens from Two Wheel Tech was chosen as Employee of the Year, with First Credit Union’s Caitlin Bryant receiving runner-up honours.
3. Collective Interiors won the Small Business of the Year award; Convenient Chef was the runner-up.
4. Dr. Ashok Varma Dental was recognized for Business Excellence.
5. Ed’s Delivery Service for Home Based Business; Dump Run Provisions, runner-up
6. Rugged Coast Expeditions for New Business; SunRae Studio, runner-up
7. Oceanside Entertainment (Karyne Bailey) for Entrepreneur of the Year; Remote Marine Solutions (Keith Wood), runner-up
8. Windfall Farm for Agriculture; Coast Berry Company, runner-up
9. McDonald Marine Services for Customer Service Professional; Timber Massage and Wellness, runner-up
10. Armitage Mens Wear for Customer Service Retail; qathet art + wares, runner-up
11. Just Fry’s and Dogs for Customer Service Hospitality; Saint Amore International Sandwiches, runner-up
12. Friends of qathet for Not-For-Profit [not pictured]; Powell River Therapeutic Riding Association, runner-up
13. Powell River Community Forest for Forestry Sector; Post and Purlin Forest Products, runner-up
14. Lois Lumber received the Sustainability Award [not pictured]; Ecossentials, runner-up [Not pictured]
Canadian EMS for Aboriginal Business; Tla’amin Convenience Store, runner-up
Palli Palli Adventure Rentals received the Tourism Award; Terracentric Coastal Adventures, runner-up
NDP candidate hears concerns on doorsteps
Tanille Johnston says she feels extremely rooted in the North Island-Powell River riding
TANYA HILL thill@prpeak.com
The 2025 federal election campaign is gaining momentum in its third week and candidates are out meeting with constituents, while keeping a keen eye on election polls.
New Democratic Party candidate for North Island-Powell River Tanille Johnston said she feels like the campaign is going quickly, but that it's been an amazing experience to be able to travel and visit constituents throughout the riding.
Johnston was born and raised in Campbell River and is from the We Wai Kai First Nation. She said after going away to study she felt a strong desire to return home.
"This is where I want to be," said Johnston. "I feel extremely accountable to the communities that are within our riding.
The Peak asked Johnston questions about how she will address the needs of her qathet region constituents, as well as the greater Canadian public's needs, in Ottawa.
Peak: How are you feeling about the campaign so far?
Johnston: I'm feeling like it's going super-fast at a light speed.
I want people to know that I care about every inch of our riding, and then I want to do my best to make sure I'm getting out there and seeing people in their communities.
Peak: How will you address the needs of qathet region constituents as an MP when you live on Vancouver Island?
Johnston: Well, I think it's important to show up in all of the communities that are in the riding and not just try to do the work from one siloed place. I have been over in Powell River numerous times, even since the nomination for the NDP.
I was at the Blackberry Festival and I came back over for the first Pride event, which was amazing, looking forward to next year.
Showing up is important to me. I believe that's what keeps you most accountable as an MP to your constituents, and it'll be my number
one priority of course, to make sure people are feeling like I'm there in their community for them.
Peak: Over 30 per cent of the population in qathet is more than 65 years old and considered seniors. Does the NDP have anything in its platform to address issues such as affordability, specifically for seniors in the riding?
Johnston: We are definitely not leaning into cuts and increases in age for accessing Canadian Pension Plan (CPP). We just announced some increases in not only seniors benefits, but benefits for persons with disabilities, which is huge.
I am hearing on the doorsteps that we need to do more. The cost of living is so high that we're really chasing that down with increasing our seniors benefits and our benefits attached to disability. There's still lots of work to do in that area, but I am happy we're going to be looking at increasing those.
Peak: Why is your party best suited to address the needs of Canadians?
Johnston: We're the party of the everyday working person. We're focused on the whole community, and
not just the billionaires who are right at the top, with the most money, the most ability and the most access to everything.
We're getting on the ground and hearing the folks who are having challenges with accessibility, health care, and folks who can't afford a home; the everyday person who is working a full-time job, where it's not affording them the access to the programs and services they need to thrive in life, and we're just not seeing that from the other parties.
Peak: What do you feel is the right way to handle US president Donald Trump's administration on the national stage?
Johnston: We need to look at investing in ourselves. We need to reinvest in doing the work that Canadians want us to do. We need to invest in building our affordable housing and looking at doing that at a federal level with a federal housing strategy.
We need to secure our public health care and make sure we're investing in health care for ourselves, including bringing doctors into our hospitals and clinics so people can actually access
the federal election on April 28. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
health care, and really doing that work for Canadians and not getting distracted by Trump's constant tariff threats.
One of the things for me is the issue of electricity. We purchase a large amount of electricity from the United States, and one way we can get away from that is investing in our different types of energy: our wind energy, our solar energy, our water energy, to invest in those things, that would make us more independent with our energy resources.
Peak: What makes you the best choice to represent the North Island-Powell River riding in Ottawa?
Johnston: I'm the only person [potentially going to Ottawa] who’s from here [North Island-Powell River], born and raised here and raised my family here. I have deep roots here and I love
Nominations close, early voting available
Who, where and when to vote in the 2025 federal election
The 2025 Canadian federal election is in full swing, as the close of nominations for candidates was on Monday, April 7. Six candidates are running in the North Island-Powell River riding: Aaron Gunn, Conservative Party of Canada; Tanille Johnston, New Democratic Party; Jennifer
Lash, Liberal Party of Canada; Paul Macknight, People's Party of Canada; Glen Staples, Independent; and Jessica Wegg, Green Party of Canada.
General election day is on Monday, April 28, however, for those eager to cast a ballot in the qathet region before election day, they can do so using a special ballot process at the Town Centre mall (unit 41, near the Snack Attack Shack) before 3 pm on April 22.
According to Elections Canada, there are around 500 Elections Canada offices open across the country. Find the closest location
online at elections.ca.
Advance voting days: Friday, April 18, Saturday, April 19, Sunday, April 20, and Monday, April 21, from 9 am to 9 pm, at Royal Canadian Legion Branch 164, located at 6811 Alexander Street in Powell River.
General election day, Monday, April 28: Vote from 7 am to 7 pm at Powell River Recreation Complex located at 5001 Joyce Avenue. There is good accessibility at all polling stations in the qathet region, according to Elections Canada.
my relationship with the Tla'amin Nation through the soccer pitch.
We [We Wai Kai First Nation] have a lineage that comes right from Tla'amin and that's something we don't talk about that much, is our connections through our First Nations communities that bring this riding really close to home. I feel like those things keep me down to earth and grounded in what the community actually needs.
I'm going to show up and I'm going to be consistent, and I'm here for the community. I view the MP role as listening three times as much as you're talking and comprehensively understanding what the needs are of the riding, then doing your best to carry those through your party, into the House of Commons, to make sure that representation is there.
To see a list of all the Elections Canada offices for North-Island Powell River, go to electionscanada.ca/Voter Information Service.
VISITING CONSTITUENTS: New Democratic Party candidate for North Island-Powell River Tanille Johnston is currently on the road visiting riding constituents in preparation for
Liberal hopeful wants to chart new path
Jennifer Lash believes her party is best positioned to deal with unsettled political climate
PAUL GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com
In a recent interview with the Peak, Liberal Party of Canada candidate Jennifer Lash responded to questions concerning the qathet region and the country as she campaigns to represent the North Island-Powell River riding as a member of parliament in Ottawa. The
resident of Sointula has a BA in political science from University of Toronto and a masters in climate leadership. She recently served as a senior advisor to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change Canada.
Peak: Why do you want to be an MP?
Lash: I have lived in the riding for 27 years and I have always voted NDP. In 2021, I went to the polling station. I love to vote but I wasn’t excited about it. I realized I was voting to keep the Conservatives out, not for the vision of what I wanted for me, my kids and for the riding. So, I started to kick the tires of the Liberal party
and see what they had to offer, and I liked what I saw. I liked the way that they could balance the economy with environmental protection and social programs. I really liked that and eventually started thinking that this is a great step-up and I should put my money where my mouth is.
I started thinking about running about a year ago. It’s a big commitment. So, I submitted my application and decided this is what I was going to do. I’m glad that I made this decision because the Liberal party is even better than what it was before.
Under Mark Carney’s leadership, we are seeing a party, and hopefully, a government, that’s really ready to
AGRICULTURAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE Call forApplications
TheqathetRegionalDistrictisseekingtwo volunteermembers to sitonthe Agricultural Advisory Committee fora two-year term.The mandate of the Committeeistoprovide advice to theRegionalBoard on matters relatingto agricultureinthe qathet region
TheCommittee’sTerms of Referenceare availableonthe qathet Regional District website(qathet.ca/committees-and-commissions/).Committee members must be 18 yearsofage or older andbegenerally availabletoattendCommittee meetings andmeet theTerms of Referencecriteria.
Interested,eligibleindividuals should submit aletterofapplication explaining theirexpertise,experience, andhow they will contribute to theCommittee.
Applications maybesubmittedbymail, faxore-mailto:
Address: Fax:
Email: qathet Regional District
Attn:Laura Roddan,General ManagerofPlanningServices 202-4675 Marine Avenue Powell River, BC,V8A 2L2 604-485-2216 planning@qathet.ca
Thedeadlinefor applications is 4:00pm on Thursday,April 17, 2025.
If youhaveany questions, please contactthe Planning Department at 604-4852260 or planning@qathet.ca
take on what is happening in the United States and lead Canada into a whole new era. It’s an opportunity to define the country and who we are.
I’m super excited to be part of that and to be charting a new way forward, not only for Canada, but also for this riding.
Peak: How will your address the needs of qathet region constituents as MP when you live elsewhere in the riding?
Lash: I live on Sointula Island. So, the first thing I would have to do after the election is find a place to live, probably in Campbell River.
I understand what it is like to be from an isolated community. I understand the challenges. I also know what it is like dealing with a politician who only shows up during an election and doesn’t come back for the next four years. I have been insulted by that so I will not let that happen.
To me, the only way to understand how to develop federal policies properly is to understand how the communities are affected by it. I would make a point of being over here all the time so I understand what is going on and so I could represent constituents properly.
Peak: Why is your party best suited to address the needs of Canadians?
Lash: Mark Carney is laser-focused on defending this country against the economic and sovereignty threats from the United States. We need to diversify the economy so we’re no longer at the whim of an elected official from the United States.
We need to build. That includes building infrastructure, building housing and building projects. I re-
ally need to work with local people to understand what the projects are and what the priorities are, and how we can take federal dollars that are going to be available through building initiatives and do them here.
Mark Carney and the Liberal party are committed to caring for people. We have the dental care, pharmacare and the child benefit that has lifted thousands of kids out of poverty.
Defending, building and caring are the three priorities that I see in the Liberal party. I see that can be translated really well to this riding.
Peak: What do you feel is the right way to handle US president Donald Trump’s administration on the national stage?
Lash: I was impressed with Mark Carney when I found out he was running because of his pedigree with the Bank of Canada and Bank of England. When he said he would not talk to the president of the United States until he drops the 51st state issue, I thought, here’s a man who understands international politics.
We want to be defining who we are on our own terms. Mark Carney is the right prime minister for that and the Liberal party is the right party. My fundamental belief is that our leader is well-positioned to deal with the president of the United States.
Mark Carney is somebody
who is clear on what he wants to do. He is the first to navigate us through this situation. We don’t want to be slowly trading away the way we do things. We want to be defining who we are on our own terms.
Peak: What makes you the best choice to represent the North IslandPowell River riding in Ottawa?
Lash: Having lived in the riding for 27 years, I have raised my family and have built my career here in an isolated community. I understand what it is like to live in and navigate in this riding. I get the culture and I understand the economy.
For the past two years, I’ve been a senior advisor to the federal government, so I understand how government works. Before that I spent years working to develop federal climate policy and oceans conservation policy, so I understand how federal policy is made.
I understand how Ottawa works. I understand the culture and the economy of this riding. That is what makes me the most qualified of all the candidates to go and do a bang-up job for this riding. I’m up for the challenge.
Powell River Chamber of Commerce will host an all-candidates meeting from 6 to 8 pm at Evergreen Theatre in Powell River Recreation Complex on Thursday, April 17.
COMMITTED CANDIDATE: Jennifer Lash, from Sointula Island, is running as a candidate for the Liberal Party of Canada in the North Island-Powell River riding. PAUL GALINSKI PHOTO
Green candidate kicks off campaign
Party believes every issue must be looked at through a climate and environment lens
TANYA HILL thill@prpreak.com
Canada's next federal election takes place on Monday, April 28.
North Island-Powell River Green Party of Canada candidate Jessica Wegg was in the qathet region for the opening of the party’s office on Wednesday, April 2. This is the second time Wegg has run to be a Member of Parliament (MP) representing the Green Party in the riding.
In an interview, the Peak asked Wegg questions about how she will address the needs of qathet region constituents, as well as the needs of Canadians across the country.
Peak: Why do you want to be an MP?
Wegg: I'm doing it [running to be an MP] again for the same reasons as I did before, which is that it's a job I will be good at, very effective at, and it's something I am doing because I want to do everything in my power to leave the world a safer, cleaner, better place for my kids and for all of our children. This is the biggest thing I can think of to do, to try to effect that change.
Peak: Traditionally, the Green Party has had environmental and climate issues at the forefront of its platform. Is this the case, when it comes to campaigning and the upcoming election?
Wegg: What's great about the Green Party is we don't see climate change as just another issue that lives in its own silo and that can be worked on when it's convenient to us. It's the lens through which we have to look at every single problem we face and that constituents are having around riding.
We don't look at [constituents’ concerns] from, ‘let's solve housing and ignore the climate,’ or ‘let's work on affordability and ignore the climate.’ The climate is wrapped up inextricably with everything else. So, every single policy the Greens would bring, to help people in this riding, would be considered and thoughtful, and not forgetting about the environment, or have it as a back burner issue.
Peak: How will you address the needs of qathet region constituents as MP when you live on Vancouver Island?
Wegg: The geography of this riding is huge, which can be challenging, and it's definitely something to consider. What I would bring is availability.
Yes, I live on Vancouver Island, but I have always been able to come to the qathet region. [As MP] you serve your communities, and this is one of our communities, and I would be serving the qathet region as well.
Peak: What makes you
the best choice to represent the North Island-Powell River riding in Ottawa?
Wegg: I think I'm uniquely qualified for this position, particularly because of the challenges we're facing today. One thing we're hearing a lot from people is fear and concern about what's happening in the United States and how that's affecting us.
I am a lawyer who went to law school in the US. For the majority of my practice, I have sued various US government entities, and have done so using the US constitution. So I know how to play in that court and can stand up to the United States as a lawyer who is trained and practiced in the United States.
I also pride myself on my ability to bring people together and to put aside differences and be less concerned about party lines and party colours and more concerned about how we can find a solution.
Peak: What do you feel is the right way to handle US president Donald Trump's administration on the national stage?
Wegg: Trump is a bully, and he needs somebody who's willing and courageous enough to stand up to him, and knows how to speak his language; I know how to do that.
Peak: The North-Island Powell River riding has
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communities that traditionally relied on resource extraction to drive its economy and for job creation. What would you say to folks who might be reluctant to vote for a political party focused on climate?
Wegg: I think a misconception about the Green Party is that we're against the logging industry. We're not. We know that timber provides a lot of jobs and it's a valuable resource for this area.
What we want to see is sustainability in our forestry industry and to expand the jobs available in that sector by, for example, processing our logs here. There is no need for us to be shipping raw logs off to another country to be processed and then
CLIMATE CONCERNS: North
we buy them back. We need to stop subsidies for oil and gas extraction. It's dangerous for the climate. It's dangerous for the future. We can be doing cleaner, better things, creating more jobs, without being destructive. We could focus on solar, wind, water and other sustainable energy production.
Also seeking to represent
North Island-Powell River as MP is Paul Macknight (People’s Party of Canada), who prior to press time had not responded to interview requests sent to all candidates last month, with the exception of Glen Staples (independent), who was a later entry and will be contacted. Macknight also ran in 2021, finishing fifth behind the NDP, Conservatives, Liberals and Greens.
presents
ALL CANDIDATES MEETING
Thursday, April 17 • 6 to 8 pm
Evergreen Theatre at the Recreation Complex Doors open at 5:30 pm
The upcoming federal election will shape the future of our community and country. Join us for an All Candidates Meeting to hear directly from those seeking to represent you in Parliament.
This is your opportunity to:
• Learn about each candidate’s priorities and policies
• Ask questions about issues that matter to you
• Make an informed decision for election day
Have your questions ready and step up to the mic to ask candidates directly.
Don’t miss this chance to engage in democracy and ensure your voice is heard. Everyone is welcome!
Island-Powell River Green Party of Canada candidate Jessica Wegg was in the qathet region on Wednesday, April 2, to open the Green Party office on Marine Avenue. TANYA HILL PHOTO
Past posts brought to forefront
Conservative candidate responds to backlash from previous social media messages
SHANE CARLSON editor@prpeak.com
PAUL GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com
Calls last week for the Conservative Party of Canada to remove Aaron Gunn as its candidate in the North Island-Powell River riding came from First Nations and national party leaders. Gunn later responded on X (formerly Twitter), as did his supporters in the form of a letter.
On April 3, First Nations Leadership Council (FNLC) issued a media release about previous comments made by Gunn on social media.
“The FNLC is joining calls for the Conservative Party of Canada to drop Aaron Gunn, due to his horrific and offensive posts on X between 2019 and 2021 refuting that Indigenous people faced a genocide in Canada and that residential schools were asked for by Indigenous bands,” the release stated. “Such attitudes are extremely harmful and divisive and should not be held by those in public office. We continue to stand with residential school survivors and their families and communities. We know the well documented truths of what happened, and we are grateful to them for continuing to bravely share their stories.”
FNLC is comprised of the political executives of the BC Assembly of First Nations (BCAFN), First Nations Summit (FNS) and
Union of BC Indian Chiefs (UBCIC).
Green Party of Canada co-leaders Elizabeth May and Jonathan Pedneault also called for Gunn to be dropped as a candidate in a statement on April 4.
“For decades Canada has denied the coordinated racism Indigenous Peoples faced in residential schools,” stated May. “With the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, we finally got to the bottom of this dark chapter in our history.”
The commission concluded that residential schools were intended for cultural genocide, “a systematic, government-sponsored attempt to destroy Aboriginal cultures and languages and to assimilate Aboriginal peoples so that they no longer existed as distinct peoples,” the Green Party release stated.
“Not only has Aaron Gunn been spreading misinformation and intolerance, he is out of step with his own party,” stated Pedneault. “Conservative MPs voted in favour of a unanimously passed motion recognizing residential schools as genocide in 2022. If the Conservative Party had any integrity, they would drop him as a candidate.”
Tla’amin Nation released a statement rejecting Gunn “as an authority on what constitutes genocide.”
“The candidate’s Twitter history speaks for itself,” the Tla’amin statement read. “It is deeply troubling that, even after thousands of residential school survivors courageously shared their truths across this country, individuals who minimize or deny the harms of these institutions continue to rise to positions of influence — and, more concerning still, receive public
support. We stand in support of Tla’amin residential school survivors.”
Gunn’s second of two responses on X was posted on April 3:
“I’d like to clear up what has been said today. I have always been firm in recognizing the truly horrific events that transpired in residential schools, and any attempt to suggest otherwise is simply false. I have never wavered in condemning these institutions of abuse, where countless First Nations suffered at the hands of a patronizing federal government.
“I have never wavered in condemning the theft of children from their families, or the forced destruction of Indigenous language, culture and traditions. Not only have I repeatedly denounced what happened at residential schools, through my documentaries, I have also interviewed more than two dozen Indigenous leaders on the importance of economic reconciliation with First Nations while also highlighting the disproportionate impact the addictions crisis has had on their communities.”
A day earlier, also on X, Gunn stated the following after statements resurfaced showing his support for Russian president Vladimir Putin during the 2014 invasion of Ukraine:
“I am firmly opposed to Putin’s heinous and illegal actions in Ukraine, and his oppression of the Russian people within Russia. I have held and articulated these views publicly for years. In early 2014, when I was still in my early 20s, I made foolish comments about Putin and Ukraine. I stopped holding those views a long time ago.
“Canada must support Ukraine in their defence
against Russia’s illegal invasion, including by building pipelines to tidewater to displace Russian oil and gas and stop the funding of Putin’s war machine. A point I have made consistently in documentaries and viral videos since their second illegal invasion in 2022.”
NDP leader Jagmeet Singh has called out Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre’s failure to act after Gunn’s denial of Canada’s genocide against Indigenous peoples, pro-Putin remarks and minimization of LGBTQ2S+ oppression.
“Pierre Poilievre claims he has ‘zero tolerance for candidates who act unacceptably,’” stated Singh, in a media release. “If that’s true, why is Aaron Gunn still on the ballot? His refusal to drop Gunn – a candidate who denies genocide and mocks reconciliation – isn’t just hypocrisy, it’s a failure of leadership.”
Local politicians, past and present, have weighed in on Gunn’s candidacy. In a letter of support, on Legislative Assembly of BC letterhead, from the office of North Island MLA Anna Kindy, one of the signatories is Powell River councillor Jim Palm. The current mayor of Campbell River and a former mayor of Courtenay are among others who signed the letter. Kindy later said using the letterhead was a mistake.
In a media release from those opposing the continuation of Gunn as a candidate, signatories of a letter include Powell River councillors Trina Isakson and Cindy Elliott, former councillor Carole Ann Leishman, and former Powell RiverSunshine Coast MLA Gordon Wilson.
The letter of opposition demands that the Conservative Party withdraw its endorse-
CONTROVERSIAL CANDIDATE: Social media posts made by Conservative Party of Canada candidate Aaron Gunn recently led to calls for his removal from the North IslandPowell River ballot in the upcoming federal election, and then support from current and former elected officials in the riding.
NATIONAL OBSERVER PHOTO
ment of Gunn and demand withdrawal of his candidacy.
“Gunn’s statements denying the impacts of residential schools and the generational trauma and genocide experienced by First Nations people in Canada are unacceptable,” the release stated. “These views and statements are particularly concerning and harmful in a riding with large numbers of First Nations constituents.
“His statements that ‘residential schools were asked for by Indigenous bands and that there was no genocide,’ and where he said ‘stop lying to people,’ are despicable. These comments are incompatible with a Canada where reconciliation is a priority and commitment. They are also completely contrary to the unanimous motion in the House of Commons recognizing residential schools as genocide.”
The letter in favour of Gunn stated that the public deserves the truth.
“Aaron Gunn has been a tireless advocate for taxpayers, a firm supporter of our resource sector, and a nationally renowned filmmaker on important issues such as public safety and the addictions crisis,” the letter stated. “As elected representatives from across the North IslandPowell River riding, we feel compelled to speak out in strong support of Aaron, whose character and record have been profoundly mis -
represented in a troubling smear campaign.
“Specifically, the false accusations of residential school denialism have been particularly egregious. Aaron has repeatedly recognized the truly horrific experience of many First Nations who attended the schools and has always condemned these institutions where abuse occurred.”
The letter stated that Gunn’s only contention, that residential schools did not meet the threshold of genocide, and that Canada is not a genocidal state, is “hardly unreasonable and certainly not disqualifying from representing this incredible region.”
According to a Global News account, Poilievre supports Gunn’s candidacy.
“He’s not denied the impact of residential schools, that’s just misinformation,” Poilievre was reported as stating. “In fact, he has said that he wants to continue to condemn the residential schools and build stronger partnerships with First Nations people to unlock our resources, so that we can produce incredible paycheques and opportunities for First Nations communities across British Columbia.”
Prior to the controversy that arose last week, the Peak contacted Gunn on March 26 to set up an inperson or telephone interview, which had not been scheduled as of press time.
Land Act: Notic of Intention to Apply for a Disposition of Crown Land
Take notice that Little Wing Oysters Ltd from Powell River, BC, have applied to the Ministr y of Water, Land & Resource Stewardship (WLRS), for a Licence of oc‐cupation – Ancillar y Aquacul‐ture situated on Provincial Crown land located on Coode Peninsula, Okeover Inlet The Lands File Number that has been established for this application is 1415565
Comments may be submitted electronically via the provin‐cial Applications, Comments and Reasons for Decision webpage at https://comment nrs gov bc ca/ Alter natively hard copy comments may be directed to the Senior Land Officer, Ministr y of Water, Land & Resource Steward‐ship at 142 - 2080 Labieux Rd, Nanaimo, BC, V9T 6J9 Comments will be received by WLRS up to May 21st 2025 WLRS may not be able to consider comments re‐ceived after this date Please visit the website at https:// comment nrs gov bc ca/ for more infor mation Be advised that any response to this ad‐ver tisement will be consid‐ered par t of the public record For infor mation, con‐tact the Freedom of Infor ma‐tion Advisor at the Ministr y of Water, Land & Resource
office in Nanaimo
