Indo-Canadian Voice Main - Mar 25 2023

THE Kelowna RCMP on Tuesday said in a statement that they have augmented resources into their investigation in connection with the assault on a Sikh international student from India at a bus stop at about 10:30 p.m. on Friday, March 17 near Highway 97 and McCurdy Road.

The student, Gagandeep Singh, suffered injuries to his chest, mouth, arms and legs after he was attacked by a group of people after leaving the bus, according

to a GoFundMe account that was set up to help the victim. One media report said that his turban was knocked off and he was dragged by his hair.

According to Kelowna media reports, a group that was teasing the victim struck him from behind and assaulted him when he got off a bus. He was treated by BC Ambulance and transported to hospital.

FOLLOWING Punjab Police’s attempt to arrest Amritpal Singh, head of Waris Punjab De (Heirs of Punjab) organization, and the arrest of a large number of his supporters last weekend, federal NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh posted the following on his Instagram profile:

“I am deeply concerned by reports that India has suspended civil liberties and imposed an internet blackout throughout the state of Punjab.

“These draconian measures are unsettling for many given their historical use to execute extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances during the 1984 Sikh Genocide.

“I am calling on [Prime Minister] Justin Trudeau and the Liberal government to immediately contact their Indian counterparts to express concern regarding the suspension of civil liberties and the safety of Canadians abroad.”

Several Canadian politicians from different parties also expressed their concern on this matter, resulting in threats from social media accounts in India.

On Tuesday, Jagmeet Singh posted a message to his Instagram profile calling for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the Liberal government to boycott G20 events

in Chandigarh and Kashmir, ban BJP officials that have made threats against minorities and elected officials from Canada and ensure the safety of Canadians abroad.

WSO President Tejinder Singh

Sidhu on Tuesday in a letter to Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly wrote:

“We are also gravely concerned by threats made by BJP officials against Canadian MPs.

“Over the past several days, Canadian MPs from all across the political spectrum have expressed concerns about the Indian government’s crackdown in Punjab and expressed concerns for Canadians visiting the region. These MPs have universally been flooded with abusive messages from Indian accounts, including from individuals affiliated with

the ruling BJP party.

“Raman Malik, a BJP spokesperson from the Indian state of Haryana wrote in reply to Deputy Conservative leader Tim Uppal’s message, “we will not spare you. We will hunt you and make you understand the true sikhi [sic.]”

“In response to NDP leader Jagmeet Singh’s tweet, Tajinder pal Singh Bagga, a BJP spokesperson from Delhi and a past candidate of the party, tweeted “You should come to Punjab now and become next head of Virus Punjab De.”

“This is a thinly veiled threat inferring that Mr. Singh would suffer the same fate as Amritpal Singh and his associates.

“Liberal MPs such as Randeep Sarai, Sonia Sidhu and Iqwinder Gaheer have also been repeatedly threatened by Indian accounts.”

“We condemn this incident and take all acts of violence in our community very seriously ” – RCMP Inspector Rob Pikola

Gagandeep Singh laying in bed surrounded by friends.

Photo: GoFundMe

Jagmeet Singh. Official photo Amritpal Singh.

Photo: IANS

NATIONAL

PRESS AND MEDIA COUNCIL OF CANADA

A GoFundMe set up for victim raised over $22,000

CONTINUED FROM 1

Members of the Kelowna RCMP General Investigation Services Team have taken conduct of the file. Investigators are currently conducting extensive video canvassing and continue to ask the public to provide any dash camera video from the area on March 17 between 10:15 p.m. and 10:45 p.m.

Kelowna RCMP said that investigators continue to remain in contact with the victim and have offered the support of Kelowna RCMP Victim Services. Partnering agencies in this investigation including BC Transit are cooperating with police in providing necessary evidence.

The statement said: “Kelowna RCMP said they have identified a suspect group, however, no arrests have been made. While the motivation for the assault, and the details surrounding it, are still being investigated by police, the BC Hate Crimes Team has been engaged to ensure that any hate elements, if any, are properly identified and investigated.”

Acting Officer in Charge of the Kelowna Regional RCMP Inspector Rob Pikola said: “It is imperative that we conduct our investigations methodically and thoroughly to obtain all available evidence. We condemn this incident and take all acts of violence in our community very seriously.”

MP Dan Albas condemned the attack in Parliament.

A GoFundMe GoFundMe set up by a community member, Adam Wilson, and a student, Aman Hundal, raised more than $22,000 by Tuesday and had stopped accepting any more donations.

Gagandeep Singh said in a message on the GoFundMe page:

“The last few days have been very difficult for me. I am at home resting and recovering from the attack.

“I really appreciate the support across Canada from everyone. The comments in the GoFund-

Me page and the outpouring of support has reminded me of why I came to Canada.

“Thank you for your donations over the last two days, they are above and beyond what I ever imagined.

“With gratitude.”

Kelowna City Councillor Mohini Singh condemned the racist attack and demanded that it be investigated as a hate crime.

The GoFundMe had noted: “As an international student who has only been in Kelowna for a year, he needs the community’s help. Even with a strong support system, he won’t be able to work, and as an international student will have medical bills, rent, tuition and more.”

It added: “Kelowna is a welcoming and diverse community, filled with residents who are full of love and compassion. Together we can show that there’s no place for hate and violence in our community.

“With your support, we can help ensure that during Gagandeep’s road to recovery, he doesn’t need to worry about where the money will come from to pay for physio, food, rent or even to have his parents fly to Kelowna from India to see him.”

On Monday, Conservative MP Dan Albas (Central Okanagan-Similkameen-Nicola) condemned “this cowardly race based attack” in Parliament. He tweeted: “Racism, hate and violence have no place in our communities.”

ON Monday, March 20 at 11:16 p.m., Abbotsford

Police patrol officers were conducting routine patrols along South Fraser Way at Clearbrook Road when they observed a black Honda CRV travelling at 90 km/h in a 50 km/h zone.

Over the next couple of minutes, officers further observed that the vehicle failed to stop at a controlled intersection, failed to signal, tailgated another car and passed another vehicle over a double solid line. During this time, the vehicle’s speed increased to 105 km/h in a posted 50 km/h zone. When police conducted a traffic stop, the driver failed to comply with police directions to identify himself when asked for his driver’s licence. Police cautioned the driver that failing to comply with this lawful police direction would result in him be-

”

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ing arrested for obstruction.

After several further attempts to have the him comply voluntarily, the driver spat in the face of the two arresting officers, police said.

Eighteen-year-old Sukhmann Sidhu of Abbotsford has been charged with assaulting a police officer and obstruction. He was issued a violation ticket for excessive speed and numerous other MVA offences totalling $816 in fines, and his parents’ vehicle was impounded for seven days.

“AbbyPD is committed to road safety within Abbotsford and will continue to ensure that those drivers posing a risk to other motorists are held accountable for their actions,” said Sgt. Paul Walker.

Photo: Abbotsford Police

newsdesk@voiceonline.com

Sukhmann Sidhu, 18, of Abbotsford charged with assaulting a police officer and obstruction

Disbanding Surrey Police Service will be a blatant attack on multiculturalism

VOICE OPINION COLUMN

LAST week, The Indo-Canadian VOICE carried a column by Surrey

Police Service (SPS) Chief Constable

Norm Lipinski titled “Modern policing for a modern city,” in which he pointed out that currently, 50 per cent of SPS officers identify as a visible minority, including 22 per cent who identify as South Asian.

Lipinski also noted that there are 52 Punjabi-speaking officers and 31 who speak Hindi.

It would be sheer lunacy for the NDP government to disband such a novel police force that is already being admired across North America as a role model in

diversity. The NDP would be shamelessly

hypocritical if it ignored the abovementioned facts as well as the reality that 67.1 per cent of people in Surrey identified as a person of colour in 2021, according to Statistics Canada.

(In comparison, only 54.5 per cent of people in Vancouver identified as a person of colour in 2021.)

In fact, getting rid of the SPS at this crucial stage would harm the NDP for sure — and what is worse, it would definitely adversely affect the law and order situation in a city that is the ONLY large city in Canada that does NOT have its own police force.

Surrey Mayor Locke – NOT taxpayers – must cough up tens of thousands of dollars paid to lobbyist for RCMP

VOICE OPINION COLUMN

SURREY Mayor Brenda Locke must pay the tens of thousands of dollars of taxpayers’ money that she has so brazenly squandered on lobbyist Mark Marissen of Burrard Strategy Inc. to try and convince Public Safety Minister and Solicitor General Mike Farnworth to allow the RCMP to remain in Surrey.

Journalist Bob Mackin last weekend revealed online at BIV.com that the contract with Marissen, the BC Liberal insider who is the ex-husband of former BC premier Christy Clark, set the rate at $10,000 per month, from January 5 to March 5. However, Marissen’s hourly rate was censored from the copy released by Surrey city hall under the freedom of information request.

Mackin of Glacier Media Group last January had revealed the

city’s hiring of Marissen, exposing Locke’s hypocrisy of claiming to establish a “transparent” system at city hall. He pointed out that Locke had promised to eliminate the $10 FOI fee imposed by then-mayor

Doug McCallum and his Safe Surrey

Coalition council majority. In a news release, she had said: “The Surrey Connect team sees the fee as a barrier for the public. By eliminating the fee, residents will see we are serious about transparency and good

government.”

Yet now she was using the FOI to avoid answering his questions about the contract with Marissen. As we reported at the time: “Locke did not respond to a text message or call to her mobile number and a communications staff member sent an email to say that “Mayor Locke will not be commenting.””

Mackin reported on Friday that “the contract, signed by Donna Jones, Surrey’s general manager of investment and intergovernmental relations, said Marissen was expected to “reach out to relevant and influential senior officials at the province to provide briefing information and to advocate for the retention of the RCMP as the police of jurisdiction in Surrey.””

Last January, Mackin had revealed that “Marissen is also a longtime associate of Shannon

Brenda Locke: Where is the "transparency"? Official photo Mark Marissen: $10,000 per month. Photo: LinkedIn

Surrey-ites wonder how they could have been fooled so badly!

CONTINUED FROM 3

Salter, Eby’s deputy minister, cabinet secretary and head of the public service. In 2005, when Paul Martin was prime minister, Marissen was the campaign director for the Liberal Party of Canada in B.C. and Salter in charge of communications.””

LOCKE has also been exposed by the Surrey Police Union that recently revealed that her party Surrey Connect’s Councillor Rob Stutt “has never disclosed that the RCMP employs his son in the Surrey Detachment, nor has he ever declared that his daughter is assigned to the RCMP via secondment from the City of Surrey.”

On November 14, 2022, Stutt voted in favour of a motion to end the transition from the RCMP to the Surrey Police Service. If he had recused himself – as he should have ethically done – that motion would not have passed.

What is more, Stutt was appointed the chairman of the Public Safety Committee, “which she claims will offer a new standard for accountability and oversight over the RCMP should it remain as Surrey’s Police of Jurisdiction,” as the SPU put it. Locke and her Surrey Connect’s hypocrisy has STUNNED Surrey-ites and, indeed, all British Columbians who had been fed a flood of biased propaganda by a section of the mainstream media against then-Surrey mayor Doug McCallum. Now, everyone is scratching their head and wondering how they could have been fooled so badly!

Record-high population growth in 2022: Statistics Canada

International

CANADA’S population was estimated at 39,566,248 on January 1, 2023, after a record population growth of 1,050,110 people from January 1, 2022, to January 1, 2023, Statistics Canada announced this week.

This marks the first 12-month period in Canada’s history where population grew by over 1 million people, and the highest annual population growth rate (+2.7%) on record since that seen for 1957 (+3.3%). This previous record population growth rate in 1957 was related to the high number of births during the post-war baby boom and the high immigration of refugees following the Hungarian Revolution of 1956.

In 2022, the reason behind Canada’s recordhigh population growth was somewhat different, since international migration accounted for nearly all growth recorded (95.9%).

Canada is by far leading the G7 countries for population growth in 2022, as it has been the case for many years.

Compared with 2021 Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development countr y growth rates, the latest available for all members, Canada would rank first with a population growth of 2.7% for the year 2022.

Moreover, according to the most recent figures for other countries (as of 2021), Canada’s population growth rate of 2.7% in 2022 would put it among the top 20 in the world. Almost all countries with a higher pace of population growth were in Africa. If it stayed constant in years to come, such

Image: Statistics Canada

a rate of population growth would lead to the Canadian population doubling in about 26 years.

The increase seen in international migration is related to efforts by the Government of Canada to ease labour shortages in key sectors of the economy. High job vacancies and labour shortages are occurring in a context where population aging has accelerated in Canada and the unemployment rate remains near record low.

A rise in the number of permanent and temporary immigrants could also represent additional challenges for some regions of the countr y related to housing, infrastructure and transportation, and service delivery to the population.

FOR the year 2022, Canada welcomed 437,180 immigrants and saw a net increase of the number of non-permanent residents estimated at 607,782.

Both of these numbers represent the highest levels on record, reflecting higher immi-

gration targets and a record-breaking year for the processing of immigration applications at Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.

The estimated gains in non-permanent residents recorded for 2022 are the highest for a single calendar year for which comparable data are available. Furthermore, it is the first time these gains are superior to those from immigrants over the same period.

All provinces and territories saw a yearover-year increase in the net estimated number of non-permanent residents in 2022, with work and study permits, in addition to the number of asylum claimants, up across the country. This increase is because of a combination of factors, including the aforementioned intent to leverage international migration to help fulfill employment needs across the country and the program created to welcome people fleeing the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

From October 1 to December 31, 2022, the period representing the fourth quarter of 2022, Canada’s population increased by 273,893 people (+0.7%). This was the highest rate of growth recorded in a fourth quarter since the same period in 1956 (+0.7%). As was seen for the year 2022, international migration accounted for nearly all growth recorded during the fourth quarter of 2022 (97.7%). This quarter saw the addition of 83,152 immigrants and the most estimated net new non-permanent residents (+196,262) of any fourth quarter for which comparable data exist.

Dr. Olumuyiwa Bamgbade charged with sexual assault

IN August of 2020, the Delta Police Department (DPD) began investigating a complaint of sexual assault allegedly committed by a doctor practicing in Delta.

In May 2021, the DPD recommended a charge of sexual assault in relation to the complaint; however, Crown counsel declined to approve charge as the threshold of “substantial likelihood of conviction” could not be met.

Following the conclusion of the DPD’s investigation, the doctor moved his practice to Surrey. In July 2022, the Surrey RCMP received a

complaint against the same doctor and began an investigation. In September 2022, Surrey RCMP announced that Dr. Olumuyiwa Bamgbade had been charged with one count of sexual assault.

The announcement of the Surrey charge resulted in the attempt by DPD investigators to cultivate further evidence and resubmit the 2020 Delta complaint to the Crown; however, this incident did not reach a level of charge approval.

As a result of the Surrey RCMP announcement,

DPD investigators were contacted by two new complainants alleging they had been sexually assaulted while receiving treatment by the same physician. The DPD Sexual Offence Section initiated two new investigations. Investigators were able to establish enough evidence in one of the reported incidents, resulting in the recommendation of charges to Crown counsel for incidents that occurred between July 16 and October 21, 2019. Evidence meeting the threshold of a charge recommendation was not established in the second al-

legation.

On March 16, 2023, Crown Counsel approved a single charge of sexual assault against Bamgbade.

On March 20, Bamgbade has a scheduled court appearance in relation to the Surrey charge, where he will address the new charge from the investigation in Delta.

Bamgbade operates a clinic called Salem Anaesthesia Pain Clinic at 6638 152A Street in Surrey. It was previously located at #103 8425 120 Street in Delta.

migration accounted for nearly all growth recorded (95.9%)

International Women’s Day celebrations by Indian Consulate General in Vancouver

THE Indian Consulate General in Vancouver celebrated International Women’s Day on March 15 in partnership with Simon Fraser University on the theme of India’s G20/W20 theme “Gender Inclusive Economic Growth” and discussed five priority areas: Grassroots Leadership, Entrepreneurship, Bridging the Gender Digital Divide, Education and Skill Development, and Climate Change. About 80 people attended the event. They included a number of distinguished members from the Indian diaspora, the business community and the Consular Corps. The inaugural session was addressed by Consul General Manish who highlighted India’s G20 agenda by supporting women’s digital and financial inclusion, making them equal stakeholders in the development, pushing for women’s leadership and investing in the collection of gender disaggregated data. He also gave a presentation on

India’s W20 Engagement Group’s vision and mission, goals and activities, among other things. The Consul General in his keynote address highlighted the various initiatives of Government of India for women empowerment to effect meaningful society-wide transformation.

The inaugural session was followed by a panel discussion moderated by Dr. Sobhana Jaya-Mahadevan, Associate Vice President, External Relations, Simon Fraser University. The panelists included Dr. Joanne Curry, Vice President, External Relations, Simon Fraser University; Dr. Sujatha Ramdorai, Professor, University of British Columbia; Kerry Gibson, Vice President of Strategic Partnerships, ZiphyCare; Sandeep Sidhu, CIO, IT Services, Emily Carr University of Art and Design; and Jessie Kaur Lehail, Found, Kaur Collective.

The panelists shared their experience and

expertise connected to five priorities areas of W20 mentioned above. This was followed by a question-and-answer session.

The Consul General felicitated the panelists and presented each one of them with a copy

Ministry receives report on BC Housing, prepares for public release

HAVING received the report of the forensic investigation of BC Housing from the Office of the Comptroller General, Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon has instructed the ministry to review the report and take the appropriate steps to release as much information to the public as the law permits, the province said

on Friday.

Following a 2022 external review conducted by Ernst and Young under the direction of the Crown Agency Secretariat, and at the request of the Minister Responsible for Housing, the Office of the Comptroller General initiated a forensic investigation to further evaluate details of BC

Housing’s operations with select service providers. The process for the release of this information is stipulated by the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. The act includes a requirement that a public body must give sufficient notice to third parties before the release of information.

The Province intends to release as much information as the law permits. The B.C. Public Service is carefully reviewing the report and ensuring due diligence under the appropriate legislative authority for release.

of the book “Modi@20 Dreams meet Delivery”. An Exhibition on Prominent Women of India told the stories of the unique lives of a crosssection of extraordinary women from different walks of life in India.

Indian Consul General Manish (far right) with the panelists.

Photos submitted

Ravi Kahlon

Photo: BC Government

Vancouver set for 2023 Canadian Wrestling Championships (U19, U17, U15)

THE Canadian Wrestling Championships (U19, U17, U15) are taking place from March 24-26, according to Wrestling Canada.

National titles will be up for grabs in all three age groups, with 12 weight classes each in Men’s Freestyle, Women’s Wrestling and Men’s and Women’s Greco-Roman wrestling.

“This is such a great event for Wrestling Canada Lutte (WCL) as it gives us a chance to celebrate all that is great with our sport,” said Tamara Medwidsky, WCL Executive Director. “This competition is a first step in identifying the future stars of our sport and we are thrilled to be heading to Vancouver and a wonderful venue like the Vancouver Convention Centre. There will be no shortage of action throughout the week, so it will be an excellent chance for the community to come and see what our sport is all about.”

“Vancouver and British Columbia have been home to numerous past national and international champions, and multiple Olympians including Carol Huynh (2008 gold, 2012 bronze), Daniel Igali (2000 gold) and Bob Molle (1984 silver),” said Non Ha, BC Wrestling Association Ex-

ecutive Director. “Overall, hosting the National championships (U19, U17, U15) means the world as we get the privilege to host wrestling legends of the past, present, and future and share our love of Vancouver and British Columbia with all those attending.”

The event will feature many competitors that have already made a name for themselves. On the women’s side, a local favourite will be returning champion Rupinder Johal, from Guru Gobind Singh Wrestling Club, who took gold last year in the Women’s 80kg weight class. Johal went on to win gold at the 2022 Cadet Pan-American Championships and Canada Summer Games. Coming off a strong performance at the Cadet Canadian Wrestling Championships, another notable name to watch will be Ava Guay, from Dinos Wrestling Club. Guay, who will compete in the U17 age group, was named the Cadet Women’s Most Outstanding Wrestler in Waterloo, Ontario, just a week ago, after winning gold in the 49kg weight class.

As for the men, Nathan Rainville, from Patriotes de St-Césaire, returns to defend his title from last year. Rainville was named

most outstanding wrestler for the U19 Men in 2022 after winning the 71kg weight class. Rainville also took gold at the Canadian Wrestling Championships in Waterloo in the Junior Men’s 70kg. He will be joined by local hopeful Tejvir Dhinsa, from Guru Gobind Singh Wrestling Club, who was another 2022 Champion. Dhinsa’s career has taken off since his win in 2022 as he went on to win a PanAmerican bronze medal and recently captured gold at the Cadet Canadian Wrestling Championships. Dhinsa was also named WCL’s Cadet Men’s Wrestler of the Year for 2022. In addition to the competition, there will also be a special WCL Hall of Fame induction ceremony. Joining the Hall as members of the class of 2023 in the athlete category are Lyndsay Belisle and Dean Schmeichel. The ceremony will take place on March 25.

Spectators are welcome to attend any of the sessions, wrestling begins at 9 a.m. on all three competition days. For complete tournament information, including live streaming links, visit the tournament site (wrestling.ca/event/2023canadian-u17-u19-wrestling-championships-2/)

IIO BC clears police of any responsibility in death of Surrey Police Service officer

THE Independent Investigations Office (IIO) of BC on Monday announced that police actions didn’t contribute to the death of an off-duty Surrey Police Service officer in Langley.

At about 12:35 p.m. on February 8, 2023, police located the officer, who they believed to be in distress at a business in the 9900-block of 201 Street. Video footage and a civilian witness confirm that before officers could approach, the man sustained a self-inflicted

injury, the IIO BC said.

The man was pronounced deceased shortly thereafter. There is no evidence that the man knew police were in the building prior to his death.

The Chief Civilian Director has reviewed the evidence – including video footage, a statement from a civilian witness, and police records – and determined that neither police actions nor inactions were responsible for the man’s death, the IIO BC said.

Rupinder Johal at the 2022 (U17) Pan-American (Pan-Am) Championships, June 24-26, in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Photo: Wrestling Canada

Four single-vehicle collisions in Surrey from Sunday to Thursday; one dead, two injured

SURREY RCMP said on Thursday that the driver involved in a single-vehicle collision at night had died as a result of his injuries.

On March 23 at approximately 12:08 p.m., Surrey RCMP responded to the report of a single-vehicle collision in the 13100-block of 72 avenue. A black Jaguar sedan was travelling westbound on 72 Avenue when it lost control and struck the centre median. The 21-year-old male driver of the vehicle was transported to hospital with life-threatening injuries. Despite all lifesaving efforts, the man succumbed to his injuries.

The Surrey RCMP Criminal Collision Investigation Team took conduct of the investigation. Although it did appear that speed was a contributing factor in the collision, a full and complete investigation was required to determine all circumstances that lead to this fatality, police said.

ON Tuesday at approximately 6:17 a.m., Surrey RCMP were called to a single-vehicle collision at the intersection of 148 Street and 64 Avenue. A commercial vehicle appeared to have struck a Hydro pole carrying active power lines. Police closed 64 Avenue from 152 Street to 146 Street and advised motorists to avoid the area and find a different route for their morning commute as the collision had caused severe traffic disruption.

Police said that the incident was still under investigation but alcohol and speed were not believed to be factors.

ON Monday at approximately 6:14 p.m., Surrey RCMP responded to a single-vehicle collision on 88 Avenue, east of 140 Street. The vehicle involved was traveling eastbound on 88 Avenue from 140 Street when it drove up onto the sidewalk and struck a pedestrian.

North Vancouver RCMP arrest suspect who carjacked taxi

NORTH Vancouver RCMP are looking for witnesses and dash-cam footage in an effort to further their investigation of a carjacking of a taxi cab.

On Saturday, March 18 just after midnight, North Vancouver RCMP received multiple reports that a suspect assaulted a taxi driver and took off in the vehicle near Mountain Highway and Main Street.

Frontline officers immediately responded to the incident and provided first aid to the taxi driver, who was taken to the hospital for minor injuries. It is alleged the suspect was riding in the taxi and, at some point, assaulted the driver and stole the cab, leaving the driver behind. Officers were able to track the taxi to the 1700-block of the Lillooet Road area. With the assistance of the Integrated Police Dog Services, the suspect was safely taken into custody without incident. The suspect is a 35-year-old man from North Vancouver facing multiple charges, including robbery, dangerous operation of a motor vehicl, and mischief.

“This was a frightening and dangerous situation for the taxi driver,” said Constable Mansoor Sahak. “The quick actions of our officers led to the safe arrest of the suspect and return of the vehicle.”

Anyone who witnessed or has video of the incident is asked to contact the North Vancouver RCMP at 604-985-1311 and quote file 23-5206.

Surrey RCMP members arrived on scene and provided first aid care to the pedestrian, who was subsequently transported to hospital with minor injuries. Police closed 88 Avenue for hours for investigative purposes.

Police said that it appeared that speed was a factor in this incident, and the driver had been taken into custody, pending the investigation.

ON Sunday at approximately 2:06 p.m., Surrey RCMP responded to a single-vehicle collision on 60 Avenue, east of 150 Street. The vehicle struck numerous parked cars before striking a utility pole, downing the pole and wires.

The collision and damage to the utility pole has resulted in the closure of 60 Avenue, between 150 Street and 152 Street to facilitate removal of the vehicle and installation of a new power pole.

Surrey RCMP said that it was not apparent if alcohol or speed were a factor. The driver was taken into custody, and transported to hospital with non-serious injuries.

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Constable Mansoor Sahak

Indian High Commissioner Verma visits Vancouver’s Khalsa Diwan Society’s Ross Street Gurdwara

INDIAN High Commissioner Sanjay Kumar

Verma on Monday visited the historic Khalsa Diwan Society’s Ross Street Gurudwara in Vancouver and urged those present to enhance harmony and benevolence and help new arrivals from India, including students.

Verma was honoured with a siropa.

He was accompanied by Manish, India’s Consul General in Vancouver.

Verma also took in the exhibition “The Legacy of Komagata Maru” and appreciated the sacrifices and struggles of the pioneers of the Indian diaspora and their story ‘from tragedy to triumph’.

Abbotsford Police arrest prolific offender in stolen vehicle

ABBOTSFORD Police patrol officers, with assistance from the Integrated Police Dog Services, had at 3:12 a.m. on Sunday observed a stolen vehicle travelling westbound on Highway 1 through Abbotsford.

Patrol officers responded to the area where the vehicle, occupied by two persons, was brought to a stop with the deployment of a spike belt as its tires deflated on the stretch of Highway 1 between McCallum and Clearbrook roads.

The driver fled on foot, but because of the rapid response of the Integrated Police Dog Services, he was quickly taken into custody and identified as prolific offender, 29-yearold Tyson Zackary Fust.

The 38-year-old passenger was taken into custody without issue and has since been released and is not facing charges at this time. Fust is currently facing charges of failing to comply with his probation order, operating a motor vehicle while prohibited and dangerous driving, with further charges being sought as the investigation continues.

The vehicle caught fire because of the friction of the steel rims on the pavement. The

fire was quickly extinguished by the Abbotsford Fire Rescue Services. Police shut down westbound traffic on Highway 1 along the stretch to ensure the safety of other motorists and first responders on scene during the event.

“This is another example of the Abbotsford Police Departments commitment to serve the community day and night by proactively preventing and suppressing property crimes, capturing prolific offenders that attempt to disrupt our community and ensuring our communities’ roads are safe,” said Constable Art Stele.

‘Ramadan Mubarak’ from Prime Minister Trudeau and other leaders

PRIME Minister Justin Trudeau on Wednesday issued the following statement on Ramadan:

“Tomorrow, Muslims in Canada and around the world will mark the start of the holy month of Ramadan.

“Ramadan falls during the ninth month of the Muslim calendar, officially beginning and ending with the appearance of the crescent moon. This is a time of spiritual contemplation, fasting, prayer, and charitable giving for Muslims, who will gather with family and friends in the evening to break their day-long fast with iftar. The meal follows the sunset prayer and offers an opportunity to reflect on the values of compassion, gratitude, and generosity at the heart of Ramadan.

“As we mark the start of Ramadan, I join all Canadians in celebrating the ongoing contributions of Muslim communities to our vibrant and diverse national fabric.

“On behalf of our family, Sophie and I wish all those celebrating a blessed and peaceful Ramadan.

“Ramadan Mubarak.”

PREMIER David Eby issued the following statement:

“As the sun sets tonight, Muslims throughout British Columbia and around the world will start observing Ramadan.

“This sacred month is a time for spiritual reflection, personal sacrifice and community service.

“Over the coming weeks, family and friends

will gather to devote themselves to their faith, fast during the daytime and break the fast at ‘iftar,’ after sunset.

“Generosity and charity are at the heart of Ramadan, with many people giving back to their communities through ‘zakat’ and volunteerism.

“Ramadan is a time to celebrate the significant contributions Muslims make to our province and to renew our collective commitment to condemning Islamophobia. Hate and discrimination have no place in British Columbia.

“I encourage everyone to spend some time getting to know their Muslim neighbours and learning more about their faith and community.

RESP

“On behalf of the Government of British Columbia, I wish everyone observing this holy month a happy and peaceful Ramadan.

“Ramadan Mubarak!”

CONSERVATIVE Leader Pierre Poilievre said in a statement:

“As the sun sets tonight, Muslims in Canada and around the world will be gathering with friends and family to mark the beginning of Ramadan.

“From the time of Suhoor until Iftar, Muslims fast and abstain from all food and water. For the over a million Canadian Muslims, this holy month is a time of deep spiritual reflection and growth as they make significant adjustments to their daily rhythms and routines out of submission and faithfulness to God.

“Even as they persevere through the physical and mental challenges that come with fasting, they pursue acts of charity and compassion for those suffering and exercise habits of restraint and self-sacrifice in obedience to the instructions found in the Quran. Many worshipers attend special prayer services and commit themselves to deepening their faith.

“These acts of obedience, born out of overflowing gratitude of God’s goodness, exemplify the profound nature of Ramadan. They exemplify the values of peace and selflessness that are central to Islam and amplify the message of God’s love for all people.

“Of course, Ramadan is also a time to celebrate the many gifts God has blessed us with. Throughout the month, families and friends will come together with joyful hearts as they break their fast with the nightly Iftar and take comfort in times of spiritual fellowship.

“To Muslims here in Canada and around the world, as you observe Ramadan this year, please accept my best wishes. May your celebrations be filled with joy and peace as you worship together.

“Ramadan Mubarak.”

FEDERAL NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh issued the following statement:

“Today, Muslims in Canada and around the world prepare to welcome the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan.

This month of fasting from sunrise to sunset is also a time for spiritual renewal, generosity, kindness, and prayer.

This is a time for families, neighbours and communities across Canada to gather for iftar, the

breaking of the fast, and reconnect with each other. For Muslims, Ramadan is the month of conviviality and sharing.

On behalf of all New Democrats, I wish all Muslim Canadians a peaceful month with family, friends and loved ones. May this Ramadan inspire us all to build a better country and world that is more just and compassionate.

Ramadan kareem!”

BC Liberal Leader Kevin Falcon released the following statement:

“Tonight we mark the start of Ramadan, an important month of prayer and fasting for Muslims here in British Columbia and across the world.

“For Muslims, this ninth month of the Islamic calendar is a time for spiritual reflection and community where family and friends not only gather to pray, but to collectively give back to their communities through volunteering and zakat.

“Those values played a crucial role in our response to COVID-19 as Muslim communities throughout B.C. stepped up during the pandemic to help others through charitable efforts in a myriad of important and meaningful ways.

“With iftar and other important gatherings taking place in person once again here in B.C., I want to wish all those observing this holy month a blessed time of reflection.

“On behalf of the entire BC Liberal team, I want to send the Muslim community here in British Columbia our warmest wishes for peace and happiness during this sacred month.

“Ramadan Mubarak!”

David Eby Photo: BC Government

Justin Trudeau

Photo: Twitter

Aren Alexander Smith, 38, identified as Surrey homicide victim

THE Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) on Thursday identified last week’s Surrey homicide victim and is seeking information from the public.

On March 13 at 7:54 p.m., Surrey RCMP responded to a report of shots fired in the area of the 2300-block of 167A Street. Officers found a deceased man in a parked vehicle who died as a result of gunshot wounds. The victim has been identified as 38-year-old Aren Alexander Smith of Surrey. He was not known to police and had no known ties to the ongoing Lower Mainland Gang Conflict. Smith and his family had recently moved to Surrey.

Investigators learned the suspect left the area in a white Penske Ford Transit van shortly after the shooting.

IHIT said it is continuing to work closely with the Surrey RCMP, and is pursuing all potential avenues of investigation to determine a motive.

IHIT deployed to West Vancouver

THE Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) on Tuesday was deployed to West Vancouver.

West Vancouver Police said in a press statement that on March 21 at 4:48 p.m., they were called to the 2100-block of Argyle Avenue for a report of a man suffering from serious injuries as a result of an altercation with an unknown male suspect. West Vancouver Fire and Rescue, and BC Ambulance Services were also called to the scene and attempted life-saving measures, however, the man succumbed to his injuries.

The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) had been called in and

would be working in partnership with the West Vancouver Police Department to determine the motive.

The suspect remains outstanding.

“While this is believed to be an isolated incident, it is very concerning for our community,” said Constable Nicole Braithwaite. “Anyone who may have been in the area leading up to the event and may have witnessed this is asked to please call the IHIT info line.”

Anyone with further information who has not already spoken to police is asked to contact the IHIT info line at 1-877-551IHIT (4448) or email at ihitinfo@rcmp-grc. gc.ca

Surrey RCMP arrest man wanted on Canada-wide warrant

SURREY RCMP’s quick response to a break-and-enter lead to an arrest, charges and the execution of multiple outstanding warrants.

“We are urging anyone with CCTV or dash cam footage, or who may have witnessed this incident, to please contact IHIT immediately,” said Cpl. Sukhi Dhesi.

Specifically, investigators are seeking CCTV and dash cam footage from areas in the 2300-block of 168 Street and Highway 10 near 144 Street in Surrey for a white Penske Ford Transit van on March 13 between 7:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.

Anyone with information about this murder is asked to contact the IHIT Information Line at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or email at ihitinfo@ rcmp-grc.gc.ca.

Vancouver Police arrest suspect in glass-smashing spree

AN alleged vandal has been arrested and charged with mischief after more than 20 panes of glass were intentionally shattered at bus shelters on Granville Street overnight.

Vancouver Police officers responded to Granville and Georgia streets around 1:30 a.m. on Tuesday following reports that a man with a

hammer was walking down the street and smashing glass at bus stops.

Witnesses called 9-1-1 and briefly detained the man until VPD officers arrived and took custody. Sergey Kurmanaev, 47, was taken to jail and has been charged with one count of mischief over $5,000.

On March 16 at 1:26 a.m., Surrey RCMP responded to the report of a break-and-enter in progress in the 14000-block of 103A Avenue. The residence was unoccupied at the time of the alleged break-in and the suspect was seen on video.

Police arrived on scene quickly and contained the residence. The suspect exited through a window and attempted to flee on foot. The Lower Mainland Integrated Police Dog Service was on scene and assisted with taking the suspect into custody. The suspect was transported to Surrey RCMP cells where outstanding arrest warrants related to Burnaby RCMP, New West-

minster Police, and Transit Police investigations were executed. The outstanding warrants included a Canada-wide warrant for two counts of break-and-enter out of Burnaby.

On March 17, 36-year-old Sean Trevor Cuddeford was charged with break-andenter and obstructing a peace officer. He remains in custody awaiting his next court appearance.

“The offender is alleged to have committed serious offences in multiple jurisdictions and will now be brought before the courts,” said Surrey RCMP Media Relations Officer, Cpl. Vanessa Munn, on Wednesday. “His arrest can be attributed directly to the quick coordinated response of our frontline officers and the Lower Mainland Integrated Police Dog Service.”

42-year-old South Asian woman reported missing last February located deceased

SURREY RCMP announced on Friday that the 42-year-old South Asian woman reported missing on February 12 has been

located deceased in Delta. Police said that criminality is not believed to be a factor in her death.

Aren Alexander Smith

Photos: IHIT

Petition to recall Premier David Eby fails

THE petition to recall Premier David Eby, MLA for Vancouver-Point Grey, has failed, Elections BC announced on Tuesday. The petition was not submitted to Elections

BC by March 20, the deadline established by the Recall and Initiative Act.

The petition was issued to proponent Salvatore Vetro on January 17. A total of 271 voters

registered as canvassers to collect signatures. The recall proponent, MLA and advertising sponsors must file financial disclosure reports with the Chief Electoral Officer by April 17.

Twenty-nine recall petitions have been issued since the Recall and Initiative Act came into force in 1995. None have met the requirements established by the Act.

Broadway Subway Project: Second tunnel-boring machine arrives at Mount Pleasant

PHYLLIS, the second of two tunnel-boring machines (TBMs) that are constructing twin tunnels for the Broadway Subway Project, broke through to the future Mount Pleasant Station early Saturday morning, the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure announced on Monday.

The custom-built, 150-metre-long machine is named after Phyllis Munday, a well-known nurse and mountaineer who founded the Girl Guides in British Columbia. Since departing from Great Northern Way last fall, Phyllis has excavated 725 metres of tunnel and 494 concrete liner rings have been installed along the new section of tunnel.

The Broadway Subway Project will extend the Millennium Line 5.7 kilometres from VCCClark Station to West Broadway and Arbutus Street, providing people with fast, convenient

SkyTrain service along the Broadway corridor.

The corridor is home to B.C.’s second-largest jobs centre, world-class health-care services, an emerging innovation and research hub, and growing residential communities.

The project will result in faster travel, better access and fewer cars on the road in this

heavily used corridor. Once in service, the trip from VCC-Clark to Arbutus Station will take 11 minutes, saving the average transit commuter approximately 30 minutes a day and relieving traffic congestion along Broadway.

The first TBM, named Elsie after notable B.C.born aircraft designer Elizabeth (Elsie) MacGill, broke through at Mount Pleasant Station in late January 2023. Elsie began tunnelling toward the future Broadway-City Hall Station on March 4.

Progress continues to be made at the elevated guideway, where crews are installing girders to connect the 21 columns between VCCClark Station and the future Great Northern Way-Emily Carr Station. Excavation and construction of the station foundations are ongoing at the Broadway-City Hall, Oak-VGH, South Granville and Arbutus sites.

At these sites, traffic decks have been installed to keep people and vehicles moving along Broadway and to preserve access to this area as a transportation and retail corridor. Work on the project carries on below the traffic decks. The project will support new transit-oriented developments, which will create efficient, connected communities where people can easily access public transit and have their dayto-day needs conveniently located close to home.

It is estimated the Broadway Subway Project will create more than 13,000 direct and indirect jobs during construction, supporting economic development within the region and beyond.

For information about the Broadway Subway Project, visit: https://www.broadwaysubway.ca

Bursary applications open for early childhood education students

STUDENTS enrolled in early childhood education (ECE) programs at British Columbia postsecondary institutions can apply for bursaries to help pay costs, the Ministry of Education and Child Care announced on Monday. From March 20 until April 3, students can apply for winter 2023 semester (January until April) bursaries through the Province’s ECE Education Support Fund, using a new online portal managed by the Early Childhood Educators of BC (ECEBC). The bursary amount varies depending on the cost of a person’s education, and ECE students may be eligible for as much as $5,000 per semester.

Helping with the cost of education is one way the B.C. government said it is helping more people choose to become ECEs, so more families can access high-quality care for their children.

Bursaries are available to new and returning students enrolled in a recognized ECE training institution and program, with priority going to

students who self-identify as Indigenous (First Nations, Métis, Inuit). The remaining applications will be processed on a first-come, firstserved basis, with funding distributed upon proof of course completion at the end of the semester.

Since the 2018 launch of the 10-year ChildCareBC plan, more than 6,500 ECE students have received more than 12,500 bursaries to help cover the costs of their education. The B.C. government has also taken action to recruit and retain ECEs by creating 1,577 new student spaces in public post-secondary ECE programs, with more to come; enhancing wages; providing better access to training and professional development; and streamlining pathways for international ECEs.

Learn More:

For information about how to apply, visit: https://www.ecebcbursary.ca

Chicken Fish PakoraChicken Tikka

Tunnel-boring machine Phyllis.

Prime Minister Trudeau, Premier Eby on International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

PRIME Minister Justin Trudeau on Tuesday issued the following statement on the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination:

“Building a world free of racism requires deliberate, continuous efforts to change perceptions and systems that have been in place for many years. Today, on the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, we come together to renew our commitment to building a more inclusive country and world, where everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed.

“On this day in 1960, police officers in apartheid South Africa opened fire and killed 69 people at a peaceful demonstration in a Black township held to protest apartheid laws. The international response led the United Nations (UN) to declare March 21 the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. Since then, the apartheid system in South Africa has been dismantled, but this day invites us to continue to stand up against racism and inequities that persist in our societies today, including against Indigenous, Black, Asian, Jewish, Muslim, and other racialized and religious minority communities.

“Here at home, despite significant progress, hate and discrimination – including anti-Indigenous, anti-Black, anti-Asian, antisemitic, and Islamophobic – continue to be a lived reality for many people in our communities. With the support of the Federal Anti-Racism Secretariat, we continue to take action to combat racial

discrimination and tackle its effects on people and communities across the country, including in the health care system. This includes initiatives like the Promoting Health Equity: Mental Health of Black Canadians Fund, which supports community-based projects that promote mental health for Black communities, as well as the new Addressing Racism and Discrimination in Canada’s Health Systems Program, which provides funding for projects that address systemic racism in our health systems.

This is in addition to the recently announced Indigenous Health Equity Fund, which demonstrates Canada’s commitment to the implementation of Joyce’s Principle. This principle aims to inform Indigenous health legislation, address the systemic inequities Indigenous Peoples face, and give them access to quality and culturally safe health care services, free from racism and discrimination.

“Internationally, Canada has long been a champion for diversity and inclusion. Guided by the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, we continue to respond to the call to build a more peaceful world where human rights and fundamental freedoms are universally respected. Earlier this year, as part of our international efforts, we were proud to sign the Declaration on the North American Partnership for Equity and Racial Justice, which provides a framework for collaboration with the United States and Mexico to combat systemic racism and discrimination. This Partnership will help us create a North America where

Vancouver Police officer seriously injured in collision with joy-riding teens

A Vancouver Police constable has been hospitalized with serious injuries after his patrol car was struck by a group of joy-riding teens early Monday morning.

The officer and his partner were responding to an unrelated 9-1-1 call when they were struck by the car, which then caught fire.

Investigators believe the 16-year-old driver had been doing donuts – a reckless manoeuvre that involves turning a car’s wheels while accelerating in order to create a circular skid pattern – before colliding with the officers’ unmarked police car. While the driver and his two teenaged passen-

gers were uninjured, one police officer could miss months of work while he recovers. The second officer had less serious injuries and is recovering at home.

The driver was arrested at the collision scene and is facing numerous charges, including driving without a license and dangerous driving.

The intersection at Kingsway and Tyne was closed for several hours on Monday morning while officers from VPD’s Collision Investigation Unit collected evidence. Anyone who witnessed the collision, or anyone with dash-cam video from the area, is asked to call investigators at 604-717-3012.

everyone has an equal opportunity to achieve their full potential and equal participation in social, cultural, economic, and political life.

“Today, and every day, I encourage all Canadians to confront racism, discrimination, and xenophobia in all their forms. Whether in person or online, in our communities, in our schools, or at work, everyone has the right to live a life free of hate and discrimination. Together, we can build a brighter future where everyone is valued, celebrated, and respected in their diversity.”

PREMIER David Eby and Mable Elmore, Parliamentary Secretary for Anti-Racism Initiatives, said in a statement:

“The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination recognizes that the injustices and prejudices fuelled by racial discrimination take place every day. The day is observed annually in memory of the 69 people who were killed in 1960 during a peaceful demonstration against apartheid, a racist policy that governed relations between white people and racialized people in South Africa. Although the legislation was repealed by the early 1990s, the social and economic repercussions of the discriminatory policy continue to this day.

“Similarly, Indigenous, Black and racialized people in B.C. and Canada continue to be harmed by the intergenerational impacts of

residential schools, internment camps, slavery and other forms of cultural genocide. Despite the ways in which the diversity of people, cultures, ethnicities and religions enhance and improve our province, systemic racism, discrimination and hate still affect people in our communities every day.

“Our government is committed to addressing these issues. We’re working to dismantle systemic racism in government programs and services through the Anti-Racism Data Act. To improve equity throughout the public school system, we recently introduced a K-12 AntiRacism Action Plan, and we’re supporting community-led efforts to address hate and support anti-racism initiatives through the Resilience BC Anti-Racism Network.

“We know there’s more work ahead. We are fortunate to have dedicated people and organizations who are championing multiculturalism and diversity in their communities.

“Today, we’ll be recognizing some of these anti-racism heroes at the Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Awards. We hope the inspiring stories of this year’s award winners will encourage more people to promote and protect diversity and work together to build a more inclusive and welcoming province for everyone.”

For more statements, please visit our website voiceonline.com

New seniors’ housing redevelopment coming to Cloverdale

THE Province is partnering with Columbus Homes and the Senior Citizens Housing of South Surrey Society to replace two aging apartment buildings in Cloverdale. The project will provide more affordable rental homes for seniors with low incomes.

“This new project will help ensure a supply of quality, affordable homes for seniors in Cloverdale so they aren’t forced to move away from the community they call home,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing. “Thank you to Columbus Homes and the Seniors Citizens Housing of South Surrey Society for working with us to deliver homes that will provide an affordable place to live for seniors in need.”

Zappone Manor at 5956-176A Street will replace 50 units that are nearing the end of their lifespan. The new five-storey building will have 89 units, which will be a mix of studio and one-bedroom homes. Residents will remain in their existing homes during construction and will have the option of moving into the new development when construction is complete.

“Columbus Homes has been providing seniors’ housing for almost 60 years. This project has been one of the most challenging projects to date with the fluctuating interest rates and rising construction costs,” said Mike Garisto, President and Chief Operating Officer, Columbus Homes. “Thanks to the

Province’s support, we can move forward with this much-needed housing for our seniors and some of our low-income-earning senior women in the community.”

Construction is expected to begin in fall 2023.

“Affordable housing redevelopments like this are long overdue and are welcome news to the Cloverdale community,” said Mike Starchuk, MLA for Surrey-Cloverdale.

“The construction of these new homes helps ensure a supply of quality, affordable homes for seniors in Cloverdale so they can continue to afford to live here in our community. I firmly believe this project will set the standard for similar housing projects in

Third enhanced BC Family Benefit

APPROXIMATELY 75% of B.C. families with children will see more money in their bank accounts from the third enhanced BC Family Benefit payment.

The monthly benefit was temporarily increased for families in B.C. for the first three months of 2023. From January through March 2023 combined, the extra BC Family Benefit payments have provided as much as an additional $350 for a family with two children.

“While global inflation is stretching most household budgets, it can be really tough for those already struggling to make ends meet,” said Katrine Conroy, Minister of Finance, on Monday. “Supporting people continues to be this government’s focus, and our new investments in Budget 2023 speak to that priority. For the families who feel like they are just getting by – and never getting ahead – we’re here to help.”

The temporary top-ups end in March. How-

ever, Budget 2023 includes a new permanent 10% increase to the BC Family Benefit.

Starting July 2023, parents will receive as much as $1,750 for their first child, $1,100 for the second and $900 for each subsequent child per year. Single parents can get as much as an additional $500 on top of the 10% increase.

Eligibility is based on income and number of children. The B.C. benefit is sent auto-

the Surrey-Cloverdale area.”

This project is part of B.C.’s 10-year, $7-billion housing plan. Since 2017, the Province has funded more than 40,000 affordable new homes that have been completed or are underway for people in B.C., including approximately 1,800 homes in Surrey.

Quick Facts:

* The Province is providing a $6.2-million grant to the project.

* Columbus Homes is contributing $4.5 million to the project.

* Land for the project is being provided by the Seniors Citizens Housing of South Surrey Society.

matically to families who are eligible for the federal Canada Child Benefit and may take as long as 10 days to be deposited by the Canada Revenue Agency.

Raising BC Family Benefit payments is one of the ways Budget 2023 investments are reducing costs and increasing support for people.

Other new and increased supports to help people with costs include:

* a third BC Affordability Credit coming in April to help approximately 85% of British Columbians with higher costs caused by global inflation, providing as much as $164 per adult and $41 per child, or approximately $410 for a two-parent family with two children;

* increasing the Climate Action Tax Credit for people with low to moderate incomes, starting in July;

* a new income-tested renter’s tax credit of as much as $400 starting in 2024;

* free prescription contraception starting April 1, 2023;

* more funding for school food programs; and

* increased support for people on income and disability assistance.

Katrine Conroy

Poilievre wants common national testing

standard to quickly certify qualified doctors, nurses

CONSERVATIVE Leader Pierre Poilievre on Sunday announced plans to create a “Blue Seal” National Professional Testing Standard to quickly license professionals, like doctors and nurses, who prove they are qualified. He said the goal is to make sure that anyone who has passed the common national test for their profession would get a “Blue Seal” certificate allowing them to work in any province or territory that chooses to join the Blue Seal Standard. The Blue Seal for professions is based on the Red Seal standard that has existed in most regulated trades for over 50 years.

Poilievre added that all the provinces and territories have chosen to join the Red Seal because it gets them more skilled workers. They would have the same incentive to join the Blue Seal for the professions: more doctors, nurses and other high paid professionals who will fill gaps in the economy and pay a lot of provincial tax.

According to the Conservative Leader, after eight years of the Justin Trudeau government, the health care system is worse than ever. Only 41% of doctors with foreign credentials work as doctors and only 37% of nurses with foreign credentials work as nurses. Gatekeepers shut out the rest. That means there are 34,105 foreign trained nurses and 18,900 foreign-trained doctors in our country who are not working in their chosen profession. That’s 53,005 nurses and doctors who could be filling shortages and providing desperately needed care for Canadians. This is because Canada has 13 different bureaucratic processes to get licensed to become a doctor, nurse or other professional. Doctors need to be judged based on whether they meet Canada’s competency standards, not based on where they come from. Even those born in Canada but who study abroad in advanced countries cannot return and easily get licensed. And even those who are licensed in one province often can’t easily work in another because of conflicting standards. The consequences of this gatekeeping are, quite literally, deadly, Poilievre said.

Over six million Canadians don’t have ac-

cess to a family doctor. Of the lucky few that do, 41 percent say they cannot get an appointment right away. Emergency rooms are being forced to close, and Canadians are unable to get the care they need because of severe nursing shortages, he added.

The solution according to Poilievre:

* Establish a “Blue Seal” national testing standard to get a license in regulated trades, starting with doctors and nurses but continuing until all regulated professions are covered. Provinces and territories would have the freedom to join or keep their own systems.

* To establish this Blue Seal, Poilievre will work with provinces and the healthcare sector to establish a national competency body that will set standards just like the Canadian Council of Directors of Apprenticeship (CCDA) does for the Red Seal certificate that exists for many skilled trades.

* Sign a deal with provinces and territories that will create a 60-day standard so foreigntrained health professionals applying for Blue Seal certification get a chance to take the test and get an answer within 60 days.

The benefit:

* Licensing will be based on tested ability, not bureaucratic processes. Instead of judging immigrant doctors by where they studied, the Blue Seal Exam would judge them

by what they can do.

* Faster evaluation of qualifications of those educated abroad.

* Mobility across provinces.

Poilievre said: “Justin Trudeau has failed to solve Canada’s major shortage of doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, and under this Liberal government, these problems are only going to get worse. On our current path, Canada will be short nearly 44,000 physicians, including over 30,000 family doctors and general practitioners, before the end of the decade. Canada ranks 26th worldwide in the number of patients per doctor, at 2.8 doctors per 1,000 people. And while our healthcare system buckles under the pressures of these shortages, Justin Trudeau has done nothing to take on the gatekeepers that are keeping tens of thousands of healthcare professionals from working in our country and providing Canadians with the care they deserve.

“Gatekeepers at the provincial level and in licensing bodies have created endless barriers and red tape that prevents health care professionals from doing the work they’ve been trained to do. Hundreds of Canadians who went to medical school internationally at some of the world’s best universities are being turned away. Practicing Canadian doctors wishing to be accredited in another province can face a lengthy application process, sometimes months long, and thousands of dollars in fees.

“I will put an end to this bureaucratic madness and bring home our doctors and nurses to help fix our broken healthcare system.

My plan will ensure foreign-trained healthcare workers can easily work in Canada and make it easy for healthcare workers to take their skills wherever they are needed across the country.

“The Blue Seal will mean that it won’t matter where someone comes from, it matters what they can do. If they meet our national Blue Seal standards, they will be able to work in our healthcare system. It’s time to remove the gatekeepers, fix our broken healthcare system and bring home doctors and nurses.”

EVENTS

South Asian Adults and Seniors Programs

* Yoga classes in person for members only at Shanti Niketan Hall at Lakshmi Narayan Temple, 8321 140 Street in Surrey conducted by yoga instructor Ashwini Bansal on every Monday and every Thursday from 10 to 11:15 a.m. on both days. This is only for participants who have been double vaccinated for COVID-19. They should bring facemasks and a yoga mat and maintain social distancing. Pure vegetarian lunch is served in the dining hall of the Temple to all seniors every Thursday after the yoga class. Please contact Surendra Handa Coordinator, Vedic Seniors Parivar Centre, at 604-507-9945 for registration and further information.

* Vedic Seniors Parivar Centre of Vedic Hindu Cultural Society of BC invites South Asian adults and senior members to introduce and practice a new game that we have recently purchased, Ladder Toss Balls (Bolas) Game. This game is designed to engage seniors in sports and exercise. Two ladders and six balls are easy to throw, but tricky to aim that makes the game challenging and exciting. The game will take place on Sunday, March 26 from 2 to 3:30 p.m. at Shanti Niketan Hall of Lakshmi Narayan Temple. Some of the seniors can play cards. Tea and light snacks will be served. Please maintain social distancing for protection.

For more stories and breaking news, please visit our websitevoiceonline.com

Pierre Poilievre

Photo: Twitter

Vancouver’s Stanley Park herons return to raise next generation

THE iconic great blue heron colony has officially returned to Stanley Park to nest.

High above Park Lane, surrounding the tennis courts, the 64-strong heron colony has settled into its home for the 23rd consecutive year to raise the next generation. Last year the colony brought approximately 90 new heron chicks into the world, overcoming persistent eagle raids and a late nesting season, due to more severe winter weather.

Throughout these challenges, this heron colony has proven to be above all else, resilient. With 80 per cent of British Columbia’s great blue heron population found in and around the Fraser River, the productivity of this heronry has signification implications for the viability of the whole subspecies.

Now in its eighth year, the Heron Cam provides the ultimate close-up view of this remarkable species as they go about their

daily rituals, including courtship and mating, nest building, egg laying, and of course, hatching. Viewers can access a birds-eye view of the 40 nests and even take control of the camera by zooming in on multiple nests, using different angles. Witness the chicks take their first tentative steps by viewing the Stanley Park Heron Cam at vancouver.ca/heron-cam.

To ensure herons are given space to nest and raise their young peacefully, between mid-March to mid-July, visitors should:

* Observe herons from outside of fenced areas

* Avoid making loud noises or playing amplified music within 30m of the colony

* Keep dogs on-leash

* Refrain from flying drones. Drones are not allowed in parks without a permit, and should strictly not be flown around nesting birds

Report a fallen or injured chick via the Van311 app or by calling 311. Do not handle any injured wildlife.

Pacific Great Blue Herons were first documented in Stanley Park in 1921. Since then, the colony has changed nesting locations several times before settling in its current location in 2001. Vancouver is proudly one of North America’s largest urban heron

colonies.

Pacific Great Blue Herons are federally protected and classified as of ‘special concern’ in British Columbia. The population of these herons has declined steadily since the 1980s as a result of nesting failure, eagle attacks, human disturbance and habitat loss. In Canada, there are around 4-5,000 nesting adults, with the majority living around the Salish Sea. Pacific Great Blue Herons are also unique in that they do not migrate as most great blue herons do. Working in conjunction with the Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation and the Canadian Wildlife Service, the Stanley Park Ecology Society (SPES) has been supporting herons in this urban environment and monitoring the heronry in Stanley Park since 2004.

Vancouver Park Board promotes peaceful coexistence during coyote denning season

WITH denning season in full swing, the Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation is reminding the public how to respect and interact with coyotes that live across the city’s parks and greenspaces to support longterm, peaceful coexistence.

In Vancouver, coyotes begin breeding in January, with litters of pups born in spring. During this time, coyotes are more active as they establish and protect their dens, and seek additional food for their young. Typically only seen at dusk and dawn, they will often be spotted in the daytime and will behave more boldly to ensure their families are kept safe. This could look like ‘escorting’ humans and pets away from their dens; and standing their ground or acting more defensively if they perceive a threat.

Found across Vancouver, coyotes prefer sheltered, wooded areas to establish dens and raise their families. To allow them the space to do so, the Park Board will occasionally close trails in high traffic areas like Stanley Park where coyotes are known to frequent.

With sightings of coyotes more likely at this time of year, the Park Board is reminding the public that coexisting and protecting Vancouver’s wildlife relies on all of us doing our part to ensure both animals and people can enjoy our greenspaces without negatively interacting with one another.

Tips for peaceful coexistence:

* Never intentionally leave food on the ground, or offer food to any wildlife. Food attractants are the main causes of coyotes becoming habituated to humans and hugely increase the chances of conflict.

* Respect trail closures to ensure denning coyote families are not disturbed.

* Keep pets on leash at all times, except in designated off-leash dog areas.

* Dispose of waste in bins provided.

* Give wildlife space. If you see a coyote, slowly back away. If the animal approaches, act aggressively by standing tall and yelling. Most importantly, do not turn your back or run. Coyotes have a natural instinct to chase after prey and will pursue.

For more on this story, please visit our website voiceonline.com.

(Photo credit: Frank Lin)

Woman held in Haryana for sheltering Khalistan sympathizer Amritpal Singh

Chandigarh (IANS): Haryana

Police have arrested a 28-yearold unemployed woman who has an MBA degree and handed her over to Punjab Police for allegedly sheltering fugitive Khalistan sympathizer Amritpal Singh and his accomplice Pappal Preet Singh at her house in Shahabad town in Kurukshetra district.

The accused, Baljeet Kaur, lives with her brother and father. Her brother works at the Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM) office, while her father runs a milk business. Kurukshetra

Superintendent of Police (SP)

Surinder Singh Bhoria told the media that Baljeet Kaur was in touch with Pappal Preet Singh.

“It is being suspected that Pappal Preet and Amritpal stayed at their house on Sunday night. After some questioning, Punjab

Police were intimated and the woman was handed over to them for further investigation,” he said on Thursday.

Amritpal Singh, against whom the National Security Act (NSA)

has been invoked and a nonbailable warrant issued, has been on the run despite the massive manhunt launched to nab him since March 18.

The self-styled preacher, who

returned from Dubai last year, tied the knot with Kirandeep Kaur in a simple ceremony in February. A police team, comprising women officers, questioned her in her husband’s native place for nearly an hour in connection with alleged foreign funding for her husband’s activities.

Official sources told IANS that the police have also scanned bank accounts of Amritpal, his wife and parents to trace sources of funds.

The motorcycle on which Amritpal Singh fled has been found by the police. The police have also seized the Mercedes car in which Amritpal Singh fled after the crackdown.

(For updates on this story -- and for more stories on Amritpal Singh -- please visit our website voiceonline.com)

Rahul Gandhi faces disqualification if higher court does not suspend sentence

New Delhi (IANS): Congress

MP Rahul Gandhi after being convicted by Surat court faces disqualification as an MP and may not be able to contest elections if the sentence is not suspended by the higher courts.

The Representation of the People Act, 1951 Disqualification on Imprisonment provides that a person will be disqualified if convicted and sentenced to imprisonment for two years or more. The person is disqualified for the period of imprisonment and a further six years.

But there is an exception for sitting members provided in the Act. "There is an exception

for sitting members; they have been provided a period of three months from the date of conviction to appeal; the disqualification will not be

applicable until the appeal is decided," says the Act.

A Surat district court in Gujarat on Thursday convicted Congress MP Rahul Gandhi in a criminal

defamation case against him over his alleged 'Modi surname' remark in 2019. The Court of Chief Judicial Magistrate H.H. Varma sentenced him to two years in jail and also imposed a fine of Rs 15,000 after finding him guilty; however, on Rahul Gandhi's plea, his sentence has been suspended and bail has been granted to enable him to move an appeal against his conviction within 30 days.

BJP MLA and former Gujarat Minister Purnesh Modi had filed the case against Rahul Gandhi for his alleged "how come all the thieves have Modi as the common surname?" remark.

Photos of Amritpal Singh released by Punjab Police.

Khalistan sympathizer Amritpal Singh escaped on bike after changing clothes in gurdwara: Punjab Police

Punjab. In this matter, we will support you,” he said in a video message.

MEANWHILE, the Punjab and Haryana High Court on Tuesday asked the state government that “how is everyone arrested, except Amritpal Singh”, adding that “if he has he escaped, this is an intelligence failure”.

The High Court continued hearing a habeas corpus petition filed by the legal advisor of Waris Punjab De, requesting the court to direct the respondents to produce the fugitive self-styled Sikh preacher before it.

A bench of Justice N.S. Shekhawat asked Advocate General Vinod Ghai: “How did he (Amritpal Singh) escape?”

At this, he replied: “We have arrested other accused in the case.”

said: “It happens sometimes. The G20 summit was also going on.”

Chandigarh (IANS): Explaining how fugitive and Khalistan ideologue Amritpal Singh is still absconding while over 150 people have been arrested in connection with the March 18 crackdown, Punjab Police’s Inspector General Sukhchain Singh Gill said here on Tuesday that he escaped by changing clothes in a gurdwara and fled on a bike.

The National Security Act (NSA) has been invoked against Amritpal Singh, he said. The police have launched massive search and cordon operations in the state against activists of Amritpal Singh’s ‘Waris Punjab De’. However, his supporters claimed that he was already in illegal police custody.

Revealing how he has managed to flee amid massive crackdown, the Inspector General said Amritpal Singh went to a gurdwara, changed his clothes there and left on a bike. The car he earlier used has been recovered by police.

“We have recovered the car which was used by Amritpal to escape. After escaping, Amritpal went to a gurdwara in Nangal Ambian, where he changed his attire and left on a bike.

“This came to be known in questioning of the four people who have been arrested,” he

said.

Terming the situation in Punjab stable, he said: “The Chief Minister is monitoring the situation and taking regular feedback.”

Meanwhile, the Punjab Police used massive force on Tuesday to physically remove hundreds of Sikh protesters, under the banner of Qaumi Insaaf Morcha, who had laid siege to Gurdwara Singh Shaheedan Chowk near Mohali after reports of the police detaining ‘Waris Punjab De’ supporters.

The police arrested a large number of supporters, who were armed with sharp-edged weapons.

The Punjab government extended curbs on internet and SMS services till March 23 noon in Tarn Taran, Ferozepur, Moga and Sangrur districts, Ajnala sub-division in Amritsar district, and areas in Mohali district.

Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said his government would take strict action against anyone who tried to disturb the state’s peace and harmony.

In his first reaction, Mann said he had received several calls from people praising his government.

“People are telling me, you have done a good job. There should be peace and harmony in

The bench further asked how everyone, except Amritpal Singh, had been arrested. “You have 80,000 police. How has he not been arrested? If he escaped, this is an intelligence failure. The entire police force is after him,” said the bench. Explaining further, the Advocate General

The High Court appointed advocate Tanu Bedi as amicus curiae in the case and adjourned the hearing for four days.

It has also sought a status report sought from Punjab.

The Advocate General further informed the court that the stringent NSA has been invoked against Amritpal Singh.

Amritpal Singh escaping on a motorcycle.

Inspector General Sukhchain Singh Gill.

Police checking vehicles in search for Amritpal Singh and evidence in the case.

Amritpal Singh’s uncle arrested in Punjab

Chandigarh (IANS): Absconding selfstyled Sikh preacher and head of ‘Waris Punjab De’ Amritpal Singh’s uncle Harjit Singh and another person have been arrested in Punjab’s Shahkot area, Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Swapan Sharma said on Monday.

The Punjab Police continued its crackdown on “fugitive” Amritpal Singh’s group on the third day on Monday.

The police have seized a huge cache of arms and ammunition from Amritpal’s aides. A fresh First Information Report (FIR) was registered against him and his associates in an illegal weapons case. The police made preventive arrests of persons attempting to disturb peace and law and order in the state.

Daljeet Singh Kalsi, who handled the Khalistani ideologue’s finance, was

arrested from Gurugram.

Seven of Amritpal’s associates, who were arrested for taking siege of a police station in Amritsar’s Ajnala area last month, have been sent to police custody till March 23 by a court in Beas.

Four aides of the absconding radical leader were taken to Dibrugarh in Assam for security reasons.

An official spokesperson for the Punjab Police said Amritpal Singh remains a fugitive and efforts are on to arrest him.

Flag marches have been conducted by district police and paramilitary forces led by Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs) and Commissioners of Police (CPs) all over the state, he said, adding that peace committee meetings have also been held in all the districts and there is complete peace and harmony in the state

How Amritpal Singh outwitted Punjab Police

KHALISTAN sympathizer and chief of “Waris Punjab

De” Amritpal Singh managed to evade police by changing clothes and using different vehicles while moving under the cover of darkness and using lesstravelled paths, according to Punjab Police Inspector General of Police Sukhchain Singh Gill.

Gill told the media on Thursday that Amritpal Singh used a motorcycle to travel to Sheikhupura (Jalandhar) from Nangal Ambian Gurdwara in Jalandhar. He then crossed an abandoned railway bridge over the Sutlej river between Phillaur and Laddowal with his accomplice Babbal Preet. He arrived at Hardy’s World (Ludhiana) at 9:40 p.m. and then crossed over to Haryana state in a truck.

Amritpal hid in the house of Baljeet Kaur at Sidharth Colony in Shahbad, Kurukshetra, according to Gill.

Punjab Police released video footage Kurukshetra from March 20, reportedly showing Amritpal Singh

walking in the rain with an umbrella and a bag. Gill said that though their faces were not visible, the gait shows the man with the umbrella was Amritpal Singh and the person ahead of him was Babbal

Preet.

Media reports also said that Baljeet Kaur had told police that the two men’s phone conversations indicated that they were headed to the neighbouring Uttarakhand state.

at present.

During the ongoing operations against the ‘Waris Punjab De’ elements and persons attempting to disturb peace and harmony in the state, another 34 arrests were made from across Punjab on Sunday, taking the total number of people arrested in this connection since Saturday to 112. The spokesperson said that during the ongoing search operations, an abandoned ISUZU vehicle has been recovered from Salina village in Jalandhar district. The vehicle was used by Amritpal while the police were chasing him on Saturday. A .315 bore rifle along with 57 cartridges, a sword and a wireless set have been recovered from the abandoned vehicle, he said, adding that the vehicle is owned by Manpreet Singh from Anokharwal village in SBS Nagar, who has been arrested.

Punjab Police say video footage of arms training shows

Amritpal Singh “was preparing for something big”

PUNJAB Police Inspector General of Police Sukhchain Singh Gill told the media that according to video footage recovered by the police, members of ‘Waris Punjab De’ chief Amritpal Singh’s “Anandpur Ki Fauj” (AKF) were receiving arms training in an area that was probably near Amritpal Singh’s native village Jallupur Khera in Baba Bakala tehsil of Amritsar.

Gill said the footage of weapons being fired was recovered from the phone of the Waris Punjab De chief’s aide, Tejinder Singh, alias Gorkha Baba, of Khanna who was arrested on Thursday, according to Indian media reports. He claimed that the arms training indicated that Amritpal Singh “was preparing for something big.”

Gill said police had also recovered an AKF logo and some other sensitive videos that would be kept confidential at this point in time.

Gill told the media that of the 207 associates of Amritpal Singh who had been arrested so far, only 30 were serious offenders.

“The misguided youth, some of whom are too young to understand the implications and consequences of their actions, will be treated compassionately,” he said, adding that 177 of those arrested had been placed under simple preventive custody and would be released soon.

Amritpal Singh

Speed reductions coming to busy streets near nine Vancouver schools

ON March 27, the City of Vancouver is launching its first pilot to reduce speed limits in nine school zones adjacent to arterials and collectors.

The pilot is one of the ongoing measures the City is taking to advance its Vision Zero efforts to eliminate all traffic-related fatalities and serious injuries. Studies show that lowering vehicle speeds can significantly reduce the impact and likelihood of crashes and make our streets safer for people who walk, bike and roll.

“We all have a role to play in reducing trafficrelated injuries and fatalities,” said Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim on Thursday. “This pilot is just one of the many steps we are taking towards making Vancouver’s streets safer for children, seniors, and people with disabilities.”

The pilot will run exclusively at elementary schools, as elementary school-aged chil-

dren are more vulnerable road users than high school-aged students. Seven of the nine schools included in the pilot and the corresponding streets impacted by the speed reduction from 50 to 40 kilometres per hour on arterials are:

* Dr. Annie B Jamieson – 600-700 West 49th Avenue

* John Norquay – 4600-4700 Slocan Street

* Florence Nightingale – 400 East 12th Avenue

* Dr. George M Weir – 5900 Rupert Street

* Stratford Hall – 3000-3100 Commercial Drive

* Henry Hudson – 1900 Cornwall Street

* Crosstown – 0 Expo Boulevard

The following schools are situated on collector routes where the speed limit will be reduced to 30 km/h from 50 km/h:

* Sir Wilfrid Laurier – 800 West 57th Avenue

* Waverly – 6100-6200 Elliott Street

The selected locations represent a wide variety of schools, road uses and street con-

figurations and are located on the city’s east and west sides. The speed limits will be in effect during school hours only (8a.m.-5 p.m. school days).

Speed limits for school zones on the Major Road Network (MRN) (e.g., Kingsway, Clark Drive/Knight Street, Broadway, 41st Avenue) will remain unchanged.

To alert drivers to the new speed limits, we will be installing regulatory signs and localized signage at the schools. Community Policing Centre volunteers will also be at some locations to provide support through the Speed Watch program to raise awareness among drivers of their speeds in realtime.

Staff will report back to Council in spring 2024 with data results and public feedback. This pilot will provide information on expanding the speed limit reduction to additional Vancouver elementary schools.

Vancouver says financial position remains healthy as it releases 2022 Statement of Financial Information

THE City of Vancouver announced on Wednesday that in accordance with the Financial Information Act, it has prepared its annual Statement of Financial Information (SOFI) report.

The City said that recovery continues from the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Its consolidated financial position improved in early 2022 as restrictions lifted, allowing it to resume service levels and open facilities and programs to full capacity.

It said that although pandemic restrictions subsided in 2022, implications on built up demand, global supply chain disruptions and low employment levels created inflationary pressures and increased interest rates. These pressures resulted in cost escalations and some delay of capital projects. The City continues to exercise prudent management and financial discipline in anticipation of budgetary pressures.

The City said its 2022 financial position remains healthy and is reflected in recent credit ratings updates. In February 2023,

S&P Global Ratings, and in December 2022, Moody’s Investors Service reaffirmed the City’s credit rating of AAA and Aaa with stable outlooks, respectively.

The City noted that it makes all of its financial reports available to the public, including quarterly financial reports, City Council salaries and expenses, annual financial reports, and statements of financial information.

Background: Myth Busters

Wondering about some of the vendors and the goods and services in the report? From kombucha to pizza and yachts to golf – the City says it is busting some myths about what’s in the report.

Myth: City seems to be buying a lot of beer, pizza and gelato.

These items are not purchased for City staff, but are sold at the City’s concessions and theatres.

Beer from local Vancouver breweries is sold at golf course concessions. The City

establishes agreements and negotiates pricing with the suppliers and concessions order from these vendors. Some wine sold at Vancouver Civic Theatres is supplied by the Mark Anthony Group, with whom the City holds a contract. Gelato, kombucha and coffee are also sold at the City’s park and beach concession stands by vendors with whom we hold agreements.

Pizza Pizza is a tenant of the City of Vancouver at 103-345 Robson Street. As per Council approval, the City made a one-time payment for Tenant Allowance to Pizza Pizza; $55,000 was paid in 2021 and $108,000 was paid in 2022.

Myth: The City is doing a lot of shopping on Amazon.

Amazon purchases are for technology web services, in particular, web hosting services, and materials that are not supplied by the City’s primary sources of supply under contract or when expedited timelines must be met.

Myth: The City is in the exotic meat business.

The City purchases supplies, chicken, and other meat from a local supplier; Walter’s Exotic Meats for the kitchen at Carnegie Community Centre. The vendor sells other types of meats, which may be considered exotic (e.g., pheasant), but these are not part of the City’s purchases.

Myth: The City is spending money on golfing and yachts.

The City owns Fraserview Golf Course and makes payments to the operator, Monaghan Golf Inc., to manage the driving range, pro shop, etc. Executive Yacht Services Ltd. provides maintenance for the VFRS Fireboat. The funds cover labour and material.

Myth: Vancouver is handing over millions of dollars to the City of Delta. The landfill is located in Delta and the City makes payments to the City of Delta for the Landfill Utility Bill – water and sewer.

Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim Photo: abcvancouver.ca

March 31 deadline for business property tax relief declarations in Vancouver

OWNERS of eligible properties in Vancouver must make their Development Potential Relief Program (DPRP) declarations for the 2023 tax year by 11:59 p.m. on Friday, March 31, 2023 to receive property tax relief.

Declaration forms and instructions have been mailed to eligible property owners. Owners must attest that their properties were occupied on October 31, 2022; that they will notify their tenants of the tax relief; and that the primary use of their properties is not one or more of the ineligible uses under the pilot program.

Declarations can be made online in just a few minutes at vancouver.ca/taxrelief. Sub-

missions can also be completed by phoning 3-1-1 or by mailing back the declaration form. Owners will require the unique DPRP access code and folio number found at the top of their mailed declaration form to complete their submission.

On March 8, 2023, Vancouver City Council approved the implementation of the pilot DPRP, which will provide tax relief for eligible Light Industry (Class 5) and Business and Other (Class 6) properties. The DPRP, enabled by provincial legislation, is aimed at supporting independent, small businesses and community partners who are paying disproportionately high taxes due to development potential.

Properties are assessed by BC Assessment based on their highest and best use, and for those with development potential, the assessed value would be higher than the value of the current use.

For eligible properties, the DPRP will result in a portion of the land value being taxed at a rate that is 50 per cent lower than the City’s blended general purpose tax rate for Light Industry (Class 5) and Business (Class 6) properties. Five to 55 per cent of the assessed land value, up to $5.4 million, would be subject to the DPRP tax rate, depending on the neighbourhood/zoning district. Any amount exceeding $5.4 million would be subject to the blended Class 5/6 general purpose tax rate. The DPRP does not apply to the Provincial School Tax and taxes levied by other taxing authorities such as TransLink and Metro Vancouver

City of Vancouver asking for input on its first Seniors Housing Strategy

THE City of Vancouver notes that seniors are the fastest growing age demographic in Vancouver. Many seniors and adults who are 55+ will have different housing needs as they age, including changing affordability, health, and accessibility considerations.

Starting now, the City is seeking input on its first Seniors Housing Strategy to better understand and meet the housing needs of seniors and older adults in Vancouver.

The Seniors Housing Strategy will include:

* An exploration of innovative housing solutions specific to seniors

* An inventory of existing housing options and gaps

* Updated design guidelines for senior-focused housing

* A rezoning and resident relocation policy

* Increased partnerships with senior-serving organizations

* Advocacy to and improved collaboration with government partners

* And other immediate actions and policies identifying future City-led work

To ensure the Seniors Housing Strategy meets the diverse needs of Vancouver’s older adults, the City is asking seniors, Elders, adults aged 55+, and caregivers, including those who support aging family members, to take its survey, lead a Conversation Kit engagement session, and come to its inperson events to share their input. “Your feedback will help us understand the housing needs of seniors and adults aged 55+ living in Vancouver and will help shape policies, partnerships and advocacy actions being developed this year,” says the City. Get involved:

* Visit the Shape Your City page to learn more about the Seniors Housing Strategy and to share your housing experiences as

240-bed long-term care home coming to Vancouver

PEOPLE on the Lower Mainland will benefit from improved long-term care and community services as Providence Health Care prepares to build the new St. Vincent’s Heather long-term care home.

“As people age, they want to know they will have access to the right care services that will allow them to stay healthy, active and safe in their community,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Health, on Wednesday. “St. Vincent’s Heather will offer vital long-term care for seniors and wraparound services that will support their happiness and well-being in a home designed to meet their needs. This includes culturally safe living spaces and services for Indigenous Elders, such as a sacred space for smudging ceremonies, with access to traditional medicine gardens for spiritual ceremonies.”

St. Vincent’s Heather will be built on the former site of St. Vincent’s Hospital, which served the Vancouver community for 65 years. Providence Health Care, in partnership with the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Vancouver, is contributing the land to build the 240bed long-term care home that will replace other beds at aging Providence care homes.

an adult aged 55+

* Attend a pop-up event

- Friday, March 24, Sunset Community Centre, 6810 Main Street, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

- Tuesday, March 28, Kingsgate Mall, 370 East Broadway, 1-3 p.m.

- Tuesday, April 4, Strathcona Community Centre, 601 Keefer Street, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

- Take a survey from March 23-April 13 in English or Traditional Chinese

* Download the Conversation Kit to lead an

engagement session with an individual or seniors group such as a community group that meets regularly, a group of long-term care residents, or family members. (For links in the story, please visit our website voiceonline.com)

2024 Nissan GT-R: Updates, Heritage & T-spec special editions

Review by Veeno Dewan

For the 2024 model year, Nissans famous performance legend, GT-R is even more exciting with in-depth enhancements to its aerodynamic performance, the return of a special trim and revised available packages.

The 2024 Nissan GT-R is offered in three grades, starting with GT-R Premium and T-spec® with 565 horsepower, providing a tantalizing option for those seeking a super sports car. The 600-horsepower1 GT-R NISMO offers an even more exceptional level of performance, with engineering drawn directly from motorsports applications.

All 2024 Nissan GT-R grades are extensively revised to increase downforce and reduce drag, helping provide confident, responsive handling, representing Nissan’s continued iterative enhancements to GTR. The enhancements include redesigned front and rear fascias, optimized bumper sides, revised grille shapes and reshaped rear wings, further increasing the car’s impressive aerodynamic performance. Impressively, GT-R’s drag coefficient is unchanged at 0.26 Cd despite the increase in downforce.

On GT-R NISMO, a new rear wing design sits atop dramatic, swan neck-style supports.

With an almost 10% larger surface area, the wing’s curvature has been specifically designed to optimize drag and downforce. The team also revised GT-R NISMO’s front lip, rear diffuser, and canards.

The GT-R T-spec returns for the 2024 model year and builds upon the already capable Premium with many visual and mechanical enhancements, including GT-R NISMO carbon-ceramic brakes, a gold-painted version of the NISMO’s RAYS® 20-inch forged wheels, NISMO-tuned Vehicle Dynamic Control, and wider front fenders. Visually, T-spec wears special badging inside and out, a dark Mori Green upholstery colour and a combination of semi-aniline and suede upholstery for the front seats.

Newly available on GT-R NISMO is a NISMO Appearance Package, which includes an exclusive, red-accented version of the car’s RAYS forged 20-inch wheels, a unique clear coat applied to the carbon fiber hood and an exclusive engine cover design. GT-R NISMO also offers a new NISMO-exclusive paint colour: Stealth Gray.

The 2024 Nissan GT-R uses a 3.8-liter V6, 24-valve, twin-turbocharged engine that is hand-assembled by takumi technicians. The engine, which was refined for the 2020

model year, is rated at 565 horsepower and 467 lb-ft of torque, and features a standard titanium exhaust system.

GT-R channels its power through a standard ATTESA ET-S all-wheel-drive system that can vary its front-to-rear torque split, depending on driving scenario, for peak driving feel and performance. The standard 6-speed dual-clutch transaxle is rear-mounted to optimize vehicle weight distribution and offers aggressive downshifts as well as steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters for manual control.

GT-R’s dynamic ride and handling is brought to life thanks to the expertly tuned independent double wishbone front and independent multi-link rear suspensions. Standard Bilstein® DampTronic shock absorbers offer three driver-selectable settings for GT-R’s suspension: Normal, Comfort and R. These three modes allow the driver to combine varying levels of driving comfort with the sport-like responsive handling that GT-R is known for. The engine, transmission and suspension’s settings are controlled by large, tactile switches located on the car’s center console.

In GT-R Premium, braking is provided by a Nissan and Brembo® jointly developed braking system with six-piston front calipers and four-piston rear calipers. Lightweight RAYS® 20-inch wheels shod with Dunlop high-performance summer tires connect GT-R with the road.

The inside of GT-R welcomes occupants with a “horizontal-flow” dashboard design swathed in Nappa leather appointments, and seats designed to be lightweight.

GT-R T-spec elevates the car’s interior design with an exclusive dark Mori Green upholstery throughout, with a combination semi-aniline and suede treatment for the front seats. Unique logos on the console and kick plates further identify the T-spec. GT-R T-spec adds several unique visual touches to the car’s exterior, including T-spec emblems on the trunk. For drivers seeking an even greater level of capability, the GT-R NISMO – its name derived from Nissan MOtorsports International Co. – is a more extreme version of the GT-R2. In addition to aerodynamic revisions, the 2024 GT-R NISMO benefits from a front limited-slip differential for the first time. The differential helps improve the driving experience, ensuring GT-R faithfully follows the driver’s inputs and exemplifies the NISMO team’s approach to iterative enhancements that continually build upon GT-R’s capabilities. The GT-R NISMO was extensively enhanced for the 2020 model year with new turbochargers taken from the GT3 race car, enhanced transmission shift control, lighter components, enhanced body bonding to increase torsional rigidity, reduced overall mass, and upgrades to the brakes, wheels, and tires. Compared to GT-R Premium, it also has an increased use of lightweight carbon fiber components and increased horsepower. The GT-R NISMO is rated for 600 hp and 481 lb-ft of torque1, with significantly enhanced engine responsiveness.

The 2024 Nissan GT-R arrives at select Canada Nissan dealers this spring (NISMO arrives in summer).

Lincoln Model L100 ConceptThe Brand’s Future Vision

Ford Increasing Production in Response to Strong Demand

Review by Veeno Dewan

DEARBORN – Ford is increasing production at manufacturing plants across North America to meet strong customer demand for vehicles including Mustang Mach-E, F-150 Lightning, Bronco Sport, and Maverick. The company is also preparing to launch all-new versions of four significant vehicles in 2023: Super Duty®, Ranger®, Mustang® and Escape®.

Sport and the number one selling Maverick truck Production is targeted to increase by more than 80,000 units this year. In Michigan, production of the F-150 Lightning at the Rouge Electric Vehicle Center is on track to triple this year, targeting an annual production run rate of 150,000 by the end of 2023.

Review by Veeno Dewan

Lincoln sets its sight on what is ahead with the debut of the Lincoln Model L100, a concept with aero-influenced styling and advanced technology that creates the immersive interior sanctuary of tomorrow.

Paying homage to the 1922 Model L –Lincoln is first luxury vehicle – the Model L100 Concept takes inspiration from the brand’s design heritage while advancing its vision for mobility in the future.

With alluring beauty that captivates upon approach, the L100 concept embraces the tension between exuberant elegance and subtle restraint. The sleek design is aerodynamic, and the transformable space allows the Model L100 to create human connection in a sanctuary that is truly Lincoln. The Model L100 Concept uses next generation battery cell and pack technologies, which will deliver game changing energy density and enable efficient, structural integration by treating the entire vehicle as a system.

An interactive, center console chessboard features a jewel-inspired chess piece controller that captures light and depth by redefining the vehicle controls inside the cabin. The controller replaces the traditional steering wheel in this autonomous concept vehicle, making the vehicle experience intuitive and effortless. Driver-centric and social seating configurations allow for passenger engage-

ment that can be tailored for the occasion. Shaping the space in ways that allow connection, the front row seats can be flipped forward to create a social setting, in which front passengers can sit across from rear passengers. The transformable environment creates a more accommodating setting, giving the feeling of a true third space. Arriving with elegance, the glass roof and reverse-hinged doors lift to give a true sense of ceremony and welcome, with the signature Lincoln Embrace. Smart wheel covers help to advance the Embrace even further, utilizing lighting and sensors to communicate motion, battery life and human presence. Imagined with accents of amethyst in a recycled sueded fabric, designers envisioned the Model L100 cabin with animal-free materials and luxury alternatives. On the exterior – designers used metallic paint and frosted acrylic in lieu of chrome with a satin digital ceramic tricoat – highlighting a warm, soft white that transitions into cool, open-air blue.

The entire interior has been designed to create an immersive environment. The digital floor, canopy and ambient lighting all harmonize to create a personalized experience that can enhance your mood. Orchestrated like a fine-tuned symphony along with interior lighting that harmonizes with sound, scent and touch, the digital floor transports passengers to the sanctuary of tomorrow.

“We have had a strong start to 2023 sales and we are moving to fast-track quality production,” said Kumar Galhotra, president, Ford Blue. “Increasing production benefits both our customers and our business.”

Through February, Ford is America’s No. 1 selling overall brand as well as the top truck manufacturer and SUV brand.

The F-150 Lightning, the best-selling electric truck in the U.S., had sales of 3,600 through February, in addition to the 15,617 sales recorded in 2022. F-150 Lightning production will resume March 13. Overall, for the F-150 Lightning production increase, Ford is investing $2 billion across three plants in Michigan and adding 3,200 union jobs. Transit and E-Transit: Also adding an additional crew in April is Kansas City Assembly Plant, which manufactures

Ford electric vehicle sales are up 68 percent.

Mustang Mach-E: Ford began increasing production of the Mustang Mach-E this week. Changes at the plant will allow Ford to nearly double its hourly production and bring its annual manufacturing run rate to a targeted 210,000 units by year’s end. Mustang Mach-E helped propel Ford to No. 2 in U.S. EV sales in 2022, and is bringing new customers to Ford, with more than two-thirds of customers coming from other makes.

Bronco Sport and Maverick: Ford is increasing production for Bronco

the Transit and the E-Transit vans, America’s best-selling gas and electric vans in 2022. Ford is targeting an annual production increase of 38,000. Ford is investing $95 million and adding 1,100 union jobs as part of the production increase. Ford is America’s best-selling commercial van maker for 45 straight years. F-150 and F-150 PowerBoost: Ford is also looking at ways to increase production at the Dearborn Truck Plant of the F-150 gas and hybrid trucks to meet continued strong demand. The F-Series holds the title of America’s best-selling truck for 46 consecutive years.

Scream VI (PG) ****

Family Ties!

No doubt about it. Paramount Films is on a hot streak. Hot on the heels of last year’s most successful movie Maverick comes this year’s surprise hit. Who would have thought that after five previous movies the Scream franchise would have legs. My oh my are those doubters wrong. Against all odds Scream VI turns out to be a rousing bit of nonsense. With a surprisingly good story and delivery the key to success is it’s ability to appeal to old die hard fans and new audiences. Believe it or not they succeeded on both counts. So brave the crowds and see Scream VI at Cineplex Cinemas and Landmark Theatres around B.C.

Yes, it may help to know a little bit about the history of the Scream movies. Suffice it to say that the original movie had a group of high school kids terrorized by a mysterious killer way back when. Well, much of those characters have come and gone so we pick up the trail In modern New York City. Somehow though those now older survivors of all

that country bloodletting can’t escape their past - a common trait 8n so many horror movies. With a new fresh cast it’s fresh bait for this mysterious stalker whose trademark is a ghoulish white mask. When two sisters and their friends become targets the bodies start disappearing one by one. Who knows who the next victim(s) will be.

They key of a good horror flick or suspense movie is not knowing what is coming next. Scream VI takes us on a wild goose chase with a mysterious

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stalker of a villain cutting up victims one by one. It’s game on as you too will be in the hunt to determine just who is the fiend behind the mask. Jason Voorhees and Michael Myers would be so proud of the pursuit. Daring, playful and certainly edgy humour makes the sixth Scream movie certainly one of the best . Sharp witty dialogue scores lots of points in this exhilarating thriller that grabs you and just doesn’t let go.

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Mortgage Rate Forecast

Highlights

- Economic uncertainty driving substantial volatility in Canadian bond markets.

- Is the Canadian economy just slowing or something worse?

- AInflation trending the right direction, will that be enough to keep the Bank of Canada on hold?

Mortgage Rate Outlook

Mixed signals from Canadian economic data are making the outlook for the Canadian economy somewhat cloudy. While labour markets remain very strong, economic growth appears to have stalled in the fourth quarter of 2022. Most importantly, the monthly inflation rate has significantly decreased, although it still remains high when compared to the previous year, with total CPI trending at 2.5 per cent annually over the past three months and core measures of inflation trending at between 2.5 and 3.5 per cent.

That mixed data has led to uncer-

tainty about the economy’s direction, which has expressed itself as significant volatility in bond yields as financial markets grasp for clues on future monetary policy decisions. Movements in bond yields that used to be relatively rare have become commonplace. Since 2007, the five-year benchmark bond yield has risen or fallen by ten basis points in a day just 5 per cent of the time. Since 2022, ten basis point moves are occurring 20 per cent of the time – or roughly every five trading days.

Moreover, of the 18 times since 2007 that the five-year yield has changed by 20 basis points in a day, 30 per cent of

those occurrences have happened in just the past year. In just the week, volatility in bond markets increased even further when the failure of Silicon Valley Bank caused a flight to safety, pushing down US and Canadian long-term interest rates once again. During the past three months, the five-year bond yield rose from 2.8 per cent to nearly 3.7 per cent before falling to under 3 per cent. Our baseline is still for a sub-5 per cent five-year fixed mortgage rate by the end of the year, but clearly, there will be much volatility on the journey there.

For more on this story, please visit bcrea.bc.ca.

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What to Do When Things Fall Down

THE law of gravity means our bodies are pulled down to Earth. This fact inevitably spells trouble over time. But for some women, it causes inconvenient and annoying issues, and sometimes surgery, to address what’s called vaginal prolapse.

Not all women are born equal. Some inherit tougher pelvic tissues and do not experience prolapse, even after bearing several children. But the more pregnancies, the greater the risk in older age of weakened all pelvic structures leading to the sagging of the vagina, urinary bladder and often the rectum.

The use of a pessary will help to elevate the urinary prolapse and may stop the loss of urine. But sometimes in elderly women another easy and effective treatment is acceptable. Inserting a large vaginal tampon to push up the bladder can help ease the loss of urine. Prevention is advantage of those not yet dealing with serious prolapse. So in addition to maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, eating a nutritious diet, and sleeping well, don’t forget moderate exercise for the entire body, including those easy-to-miss pelvic muscles. Develop a habit of doing Kegel exercises several times a day. This is done by concentrating on pulling up the pelvic and rectal muscles. It’s possible to do this seated, standing, or lying down. So identify a consistent place and time each day, and do it. The more you exercise these muscles, the stronger

they will become.

If all this fails, doctors will suggest surgery. There are several methods. One is to stitch up the position of the bladder. Your surgeon may also advise an artificial support for extra strength. Or the prolapse can be repaired during a hysterectomy.

Do men develop prolapse? Yes, but much less often and it’s usually a prolapse of the rectal area.

Marilyn Monroe famously said, “I defy gravity.” But such fortunes elude most people. Talk with your doctor and see if treatment can get the annoyance resolved.

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The most common complaint is the loss of urine on coughing and sneezing. A large survey of women in North America revealed that four percent suffer from this annoying problem. Apart from pregnancy, what else can contribute to prolapse? Obesity is a factor, causing so many other medical complications too. It is staggering that some women still smoke. If cancer and respiratory diseases aren’t incentives enough to quit, then maybe vaginal prolapse should be more prominently added to the list. Why? A smoker’s cough pushes on the urinary bladder. Prolapse can also be worsened by heavily lifting. Here’s another concern. Many women continue to suffer needlessly from chronic constipation. Why do they strain their innards and try to solve the problem with laxatives? This harms the bowel over the course of years. One of the best kept secrets is that vitamin C is a safe, inexpensive, effective, and natural remedy for constipation. But it must be in higher doses than found in most supplements. Start with taking 2,000 milligrams before bed. If no results, increase to 4,000 mg the following night. It invariably works. Remember, simply because prolapse has developed does not mean it always be treated. This is an important point to stress because many women with prolapse will never know they have the condition. Awareness usually becomes evident when they start to experience troublesome urinary incontinence. What can be done depends on the severity of prolapse and if it’s causing annoyance. The most frequent treatment is the use of a vaginal pessary which is easy to insert and can be easily removed to be cleaned.

DR. KEN WALKER (GIFFORD-JONES) is a graduate of the University of Toronto and The Harvard Medical School. He trained in general surgery at the Strong Memorial Hospital, University of Rochester, Montreal General Hospital, McGill University and in Gynecology at Harvard.

DIANA MACKAY writes in collaboration with her father under the pen name, Diana Gifford-Jones. Diana is Special Advisor with The Aga Khan University. She worked for ten years in the Human Development sectors at the World Bank, including health policy and economics, nutrition, and population health.