Indo-Canadian Voice Main - May 6 2023

Surrey Minor Hockey’s South Asian players called “monkey,”

“banana” and the N-word; MPs ask for explanation

RACISM AGAINST SOUTH ASIANS IN LOWER MAINLAND IS ALIVE AND KICKING!

MP’S Parm Bains (StevestonRichmond East) and Sukh Dhaliwal (Surrey-Newton) have asked British Columbia Amateur Hockey Assocation CEO Cameron Hope to provide them with “greater details” of a recent game in which racial slurs were hurled at South Asian players that resulted in the disqualification of a Surrey Minor Hockey Association team and the termination of their coach.

According to a press release sent by Laura Ballance Media Group on Tuesday, parents of a minor hockey team in Surrey are outraged that well-liked coach Brian MacGillivray was released from coaching duties last week without any explanation to him or the parents of his U11 A1 Rep hockey team.

“The move by the Surrey Minor Hockey Association comes at the end of an extremely successful season, with the U11 team winning a league division banner. Parents on the team are concerned with the sudden dismissal as well as the complete lack of information forthcoming from the Surrey

Hockey Association, saying dozens of requests for information and an explanation have gone unanswered,” the release states.

It adds: “The parents believe the reason the coach was released was due to his suspension at a minor hockey tournament in Coquitlam in February. Coach MacGillivray was suspended following a series of extremely disturbing on-ice

Male shot in Surrey’s Bear Creek area

SURREY RCMP are on scene following a shooting in the Bear Creek area that has sent one person to hospital.

On Friday, May 5, at approximately 8:06 a.m., Surrey RCMP responded to the report of a shooting in a residential driveway located in the 8100-block of 144A Street.

Police located an adult male suffering from apparent gunshot wounds and provided medical assistance until Emergency Health Services arrived on scene. The man was transported to hospital with serious injuries.

Social media has identified the victim as a well-known kabaddi player and promoter, Nitu Kang.

incidents involving players from an opposing team repeatedly using racial slurs against MacGillivray’s players. The team has 15 South Asian players, and during the game in question the 10-year-olds were called “monkey,” “banana” and the N-word by numerous players on the opposing team.

One person who didn’t want to be identified told The VOICE that the victim was shot in his driveway. Six or seven shots were fired at him, with he was hit in the abdomen and leg. He is expected to survive.

At approximately 8:34 a.m., Surrey RCMP were notified of a vehicle fire at 125A Street and Colebrook Road. The vehicle located on fire is similar in description to the suspect vehicle seen fleeing the area of the shooting;

however, further investigation is required to link the two incidents, Cpl. Vanessa Munn said.

Surrey RCMP General Investigation Unit has conduct of both investigations and are in the evidence gathering stage. This appears to be a targeted incident; however, the motive is unknown.

Anyone with information or dash camera footage from the area is asked to contact Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502.

Nitu Kang.

Photo: Gurpreet S. Sahota’s Twitter

Parm Bains. Sukh Dhaliwal.

Lower Surrey’s property taxes, continue policing transition: Councillor Nagra to mayor and Council

SAFE Surrey Coalition Councillor

Mandeep Nagra on Monday called on Mayor Brenda Locke and City Council to accept the Province’s recommendation to continue with the Surrey Police Service (SPS) transition.

Nagra believes that the Province’s commitment to supporting the SPS transition by providing approximately $30 million per year in funding presents a unique opportunity to lower property taxes and provide much-needed relief for Surrey residents, who are struggling to make ends meet amid a looming recession and skyrocketing inflation.

“The mayor’s refusal to accept the Province’s offer to support the SPS

transition and lower property taxes is a betrayal of Surrey residents,” said Nagra. “Her party’s decision to

raise property taxes to a historic high of 12.5% is making life harder for working families and small businesses in our city. We must act now to reverse this decision and use the Province’s funding to lower property taxes to single digits.”

Former Surrey mayor Doug McCallum, who was a champion for a community-based urban police force and kept property taxes at a historically low rate of 2.5%, also spoke out in support of Nagra’s call to lower property taxes for Surrey residents.

“The Province’s funding support for the SPS transition is a once-in-alifetime opportunity to provide the best public safety services to our residents

Members of :

“Coach MacGillivray protested to the on-ice officials and tournament safety officials stating he didn’t feel his players could safely return to the ice. The Surrey team left the ice, resulting in a 30-day suspension of Coach MacGillivray and the disqualification of the team from the tournament. Despite numerous Letters of Support written by past and present families who have had Brian MacGillivray coach their sons or daughters, the parents of the Surrey U11 A1 Rep team believe it was this situation which led to Coach MacGillivray being released from the Surrey Minor Hockey Association, almost immediately after his suspension ended in late March.

“Players and parents are now demanding a response from the Surrey Minor Hockey Association on what they believe to be a targeted vendetta against their coach.”

discrimination against minor hockey players took place,” adding: “It is very disturbing and disheartening to hear that young athletes would be exposed to discrimination or exclusion from a game they love.”

Bains and Dhaliwal noted: “In recent months leading to the 2023 Canada Sports Policy review, there have been multiple reports of demoralizing culture in sports associations across Canada.”

They added: “As Members of Parliament, we want to remove barriers for all Canadians, so they may participate and thrive in sports across our country.”

Copies of the letter have been sent to federal Minister of Sport, Pascale St-Onge, and B.C. Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport, Lana Popham.

disturbed to learn of the racist incident that happened at a youth hockey game in Surrey in which players were subjected to racial insults.

while also solving the issue that the Council has been complaining about, which is the money,” said McCallum. “The mayor and city council must put the interests of Surrey residents first and accept the Province’s offer of funding support and lower property taxes now.”

Nagra pointed out: “It’s a common sense solution, we must seize this opportunity to make a real difference for Surrey residents. We cannot afford to wait any longer. The mayor and City Council must act now to accept the Province’s funding support for the SPS transition and lower property taxes to provide much-needed relief to our residents.”

recently that the Minister of Labour has spoken on as well and I support him in his comments wholeheartedly, and I want to commend the actions of the coach, Brian MacGillivray, for standing up for his team and doing the right thing. He did the right thing. He protected his players at a time that they needed to be protected and I think everyone in this House stands with that coach today - and tomorrow.

“I am very disappointed to hear about the actions that were taken against this coach. They were wrong, they were unacceptable. This coach did the right thing and I would be proud to have him coaching my children.

“Parents of young kids on this team are speaking up and they are asking for clarity, and I in this House, support them on the clarity.

Bains and Dhaliwal said in their letter to Hope: “Concerned constituents and members of the local sports community have informed us that

MEANWHILE, BC United MLA Trevor Halford (Surrey-White Rock) lashed out against the racism in the House.

In a statement in the House he said: “Racism has no place in our community. Whether in our schools, in the workplace, on the ice, it has no place in our society. I was deeply

“Hurtful, unacceptable comments that no one should be subjected to and we must stand together as a community and speak out against racism, intolerance and discrimination of all kinds every single time. We have an obligation to do everything possible to ensure our children grow up in a world without racism.

“We must stand up and do the right thing every single time like this coach did. I am hopeful that Surrey Minor Hockey will revisit this decision immediately and do the right thing and actually stand beside somebody that protected our children when they needed it most.” Sablok & Sablok, Notaries Public has over 35 years combined experience in Notarial

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Mandeep Nagra. Photo: Safe Surrey Coalition

“Racism has no place in our community” : MLA Trevor Halford CONTINUED FROM 1

Dr. Ambedkar International Symposium on Emancipation and Equality Day Celebrations in Vancouver

THE purpose of the Dr. Ambedkar International Symposium on Emancipation and Equality Day Celebrations was to rethink, restrategize and rebrand the struggle and pathways for accomplishing emancipation. Delegates and panel members were fully engaged and impactful in stimulating discussion and formulating strategies and actions.

The symposium opened on April 21 with a session on contemporary Buddhism, as envisioned by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and prescribed in his monumental book, Buddha and His Dhamma. The session was moderated by Dr. Jessica Main, Associate Professor at the University of British Columbia. Panel members included Bhante Dr. Saranpala, H.L. Virdee,

Raj Kumar Osho, and Dr. Rajratana Ambedkar. Dr. Main was introduced by Manjit Bains, Chair of Chetna’s Women Empowerment Committee. The day concluded with a session on how India’s legal framework enables emancipation. The session was moderated by advocate Lovleen Gill and the panel comprised Indian Consul General Manish, Neetu Badhan-Smith, Los Angeles County Court Supreme Judge, and Leela Aheer, Alberta MLA.

Day 2:

A full day session was hosted at the Sauder Business School at the University of British Columbia. The first session provided an opportunity to reflect on the International Dalit

Conference that was hosted in Vancouver in 2003. Panel members shared their reflections on what has been gained over the past 20 years and highlighted areas of improvement and potential actions to consider. Panel members included Harmesh Sandhi (Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha of Ontario), Jagiri Bance (Entrepreneur and political leader from Ontario), and Major Mal (President, Ambedkar International Mission – Calgary).

A session on caste in academic settings in Canada and other jurisdictions provided opportunity for students and faculty to share their perspectives and observations on the

Delegates with House Speaker Raj Chouhan, Education Minister Rachna Singh, Parliamentary Secretary Aman Singh, MLA Jinny Sims and others in Victoria. Photos submitted

presence of caste and highlighted a need for adding caste as a protected category. This session was moderated by Dr. Priti Narayan of Center for India and South Asia Research at UBC.

Other sessions for the day focussed on entrepreneurship, and youth and women empowerment.

Dr. Ambedkar’s Collected Speeches and Writings were gifted to the University of the Fraser Valley by Harmesh Sandhi and other delegates from Ontario. A portrait of Dr. Ambedkar, made by Raghavendra Rao Karla, was also presented to the University of Fraser Valley in Abbotsford. Title of the painting: ‘Dr. Ambedkar and the idea of dissent, towards the creation of a working democracy”.

Day 3:

On Sunday, April 23, delegates visited Guru Ravidass Community Center in Burnaby and paid respects. They were welcomed and honoured by the management committee of Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha.

The evening offered a gala reception where delegates and business sponsors were honoured for their support and contributions. Songs of self-respect and dignity were performed by Jyotika Jasuja

to

and Pamma Sunner.

Day 4:

On April 24, a celebration was hosted at the WAC Bennett Library, Simon Fraser University, where the City of Burnaby was honoured for being the first city outside of India to proclaim April 14 as Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Day of Equality. Simon Fraser University’s Vice President of External Relations, Dr. Joanne Curry, Dean of Libraries, Gwen Bird, and Cree-Métis scholar, Dr. Deanna Redder, welcomed the delegates to the library. Indian Consul General Manish also shared his greetings for the equality day and commended the organisers and partners for hosting the symposium. As part of the Equality Day Celebrations, the library exhibited a sample of writings on Dr. Ambedkar and caste issues.

Songs were performed by Jyotika Jasuja and a theatrical performance on women empowerment was presented by Simran Kranti.

In the evening, some delegates visited the City of Burnaby and attended the open council meeting to witness the City’s motion on adding caste as a protected category to its existing policy framework. The motion was approved unanimously and

it was a remarkable experience to see history in the making.

Day 5:

April 25 started with a journey to Victoria, where over 25 delegates observed the Question Period at the BC Legislature. Parliamentary Secretary Aman Singh welcomed Dr. Rajratana

Ambedkar and delegates to the legislature and acknowledged the symposium that was being hosted across various settings in British Columbia. Delegates also met BC’s first South Asian Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia, Raj Chouhan, in his office. Mohinder and Krishna Ralh of Victoria and members of

Chetna Association of Canada hosted a lunch for the delegates. In the afternoon, delegates visited the law school library at the University of Victoria and observed Equality Day with Dr. Rita Dhamoon and Dr. Pooja Parmar. The discussion focussed

“Right pathways need

be selected that are effective and efficient”

on developing a pathway for emancipation based on the recommendations made during the symposium.

Day 6:

The final day for the formal component of the symposium was hosted at the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) in Abbotsford. Dr. Satwinder Bains, Director of South Asian Studies Institute at UFV, facilitated a session and presented an overview on the caste structure and explained what actions UFV was contemplating for adding caste as a protected category to its policy framework on equity and inclusion.

What is the impact of the symposium?

According to the organisers, the symposium succeeded at having a meaningful dialogue and exploring pathways to emancipation.

“While there are many pathways to Emancipation, right pathways need to be selected that are effective and efficient,” noted Jai Birdi, co-chair for the symposium and General Secretary of Chetna Association

BC Gang Conflict: Jayden Prasad, 20, of Surrey is homicide victim. Connected to April 28 Delta shooting?

THE Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) on Thursday identified the victim of the Surrey homicide on May 2 as 20-year-old Jayden Prasad of Surrey.

Prasad was known to police and initial information suggests that this was a targeted incident with ties to the BC Gang Conflict.

A possible suspect vehicle was located a short time later in Langley, with indications that an attempt was made to light it on fire.

Interestingly, four days earlier, on April 28, the victim of a shooting in Delta who is known to police is involved in the British Columbia Gang Conflict. Officers believe the shooting was targeted.

of Canada.

“We believe the process provided for the meaningful and inclusive dialogue helped in developing effective strategies and actions,” concurred Parm Kainth, cochair for the symposium and Vice President of Ambedkarite International Coordination Society.

What’s Next:

Organisers are very grateful to the delegates, partners, and supporters who contributed in one form or another.

The organisers are also thankful to the team, led by Dr. Rita Dhamoon of University of Victoria, for compiling a summary of discussion held and recommendations made during the symposium. Organisers plan to establish a working group to review the summary and develop an action plan so the progress can be monitored and evaluated to support the implementation of the recommendations.

- JaI BIRDI aND PaRaM KaINTH

Co-chairs of the Steering Committee for the celebrations Dr. Ambedkar International Symposium on Emancipation and Equality Day Celebrations in Vancouver

Police have not said whether the two shootings are possibly connected.

On April 28 at approximately 7:50 p.m., Delta Police responded to 911 calls reporting a shooting that had just occurred in the 7800-block of 119 Street. Officers located a male with non-life-threatening gunshot wounds. Emergency medical care was provided at the scene and the victim was transported to hospital. The suspect fled the scene in a dark SUV before officers arrived.

On May 2 at 8 p.m., Surrey RCMP responded to reports of a shooting in a parking lot located in the 14800-block of 108 Avenue. Police located two victims suffering from gunshot wounds. Both victims were transported to hospital. One male succumbed to his injuries, while the other sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transferred to hospital and later released.

Social media reports said that a black Dodge Durango was shot at in the Circle K parking lot.

IHIT said it was releasing Prasad’s identification in an effort to build a timeline of his activities leading up to the homicide.

“This incident took place in the parking

lot of a convenience store around 8 p.m., and once again, we are seeing a complete disregard for public safety in our communities. IHIT investigators are urging anyone with information on this incident, or who may have witnessed this incident and have not yet spoken with us, to please call police,” said IHIT Media Relations Officer, Cpl. Sukhi Dhesi.

“We are asking anyone with dashcam video or CCTV in the area of 148 Street and 108 Avenue in Surrey on May 2 between 7:45 p.m. and 8:15 p.m., and 200 Street and 36 Avenue in Langley between 8:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m., to contact IHIT.”

IHIT said it is continuing to work closely with the Surrey RCMP, and is pursuing all potential avenues of investigation and canvassing the area, collecting evidence and identifying witnesses.

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

CONTINUED FROM 4

At 148 Street and 108 Avenue in Surrey.

Photo by Judy Green

Winner 2023

SATINDERJEET Singh Brar – aka Goldy Brar – is the alleged mastermind in the murder of the famous Punjabi singer Sidhu Moose Wala, according to Indian media.

Brar, an alleged member of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, has been reportedly based in Canada since 2017.

Brar, a native of Sri Muktsar Sahib, went to Canada on a student visa. He claimed responsibility for Moose Wala’s murder on May 29, 2022, on behalf of the gang.

Last December, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann told the Indian media that the Punjab Police had got a Red Corner Notice (RCN) issued against Brar after taking up the matter with the Union Home Ministry.

Broker of the Year Award

At the time, he told Indian media: “It is confirmed news, and I say this being the head of the state [Punjab], that Canada-based gangster Goldy Brar, who was indulging in anti-social activities and was involved in funding such activities, has been detained in the US.”

However, that claim turned out to be incorrect, and nobody seems to know whether Brar is in the U.S. or in Canada.

On May 1, the Bolo Program in Toronto marked five years of campaigns to catch Canada’s most wanted fugitives and issued the latest list that placed Brar in the 15th position with the caption: “Wanted by Royal Canadian Mounted Police for Murder.”

The very nest day, Indian media reported that a notorious gangster, Tillu Tajpuria, was killed by four inmates in Delhi’s Tihar Jail by members of the Jitender Gogi gang although Tajpuria, 33, was said to have been placed under tight security measures.

Media reports said that Brar claimed responsibility for the attack on Tajpuria, citing revenge, according to an unverified social media post.

“Hello everyone, our brothers Yogesh Tunda and Deepak Titar are responsible for the murder of Tillu Tajpuria in Tihar Jail on Tuesday. Tajpuria took responsibility for the loss of Gogi Maan bhai and had been an enemy of our brothers since the beginning. We will soon take care of others involved,” the Facebook post read.

So the mystery continues.

Sharnjit Singh Gill & Team

Raj Gill & Sunny Bal receiving the Award at CMA in Toronto on 21 April, 2023

Deep Saini 92nd from left), Principal of McGill University, Montreal, and Christopher Manfredi (3rd from left), Provost, Vice-Principal (Academic), and Professor of Political Science at McGill University, met with Indian High Commissioner Sanjay Kumar Verma (3rd from right), to sign the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) Chair of Indian Studies MOU and to discuss continuous cooperation between Indian Institutions and McGill University.

Photo: Twitter

The big mystery of the whereabouts of Satinderjit Singh Brar aka Goldy Brar

Satinderjit Singh Brar

Chohan Freight Forwarders Ltd. drivers involved in one-third of overpass damages

BETWEEN December 2021 and March 2023, 15 overpasses were hit in the Lower Mainland, including one in Abbotsford on Monday.

Drivers of Chohan Freight Forwarders Ltd. were responsible for hitting five overpasses and received five carrier suspensions between December 2021 and June 2022, according to a B.C. government website.

The “history of bridge strikes on provincial highways in British Columbia, with causes and enforcement actions since December 2021,” reports the following incidents involving Chohan Freight Forwarders Ltd.:

2021:

* December 10 at 192 Street Hwy 1 overpass. Driver error: failed to observe conditions of permit. Violation tickets.

2022:

* February 12 at 264 St, Hwy 1 overpass.

Carrier/driver error: no permit. Violation tickets

* February 17 at the 112 Street Hwy 1 overpass. Driver error: failed to follow approved route. Violation tickets, safety plan required (confirmed implementation)

* June 1 at No. 3 Road Hwy 1 overpass. Carrier/driver error: failed to follow approved route. Violation tickets

* June 8 at 264 Street Hwy 1 overpass. Driver error: incorrect permit. Violation tickets, Carrier suspended. Revised safety plan developed and implemented, suspension lifted on June 30, 2022.

Transportation Minister told the media that his ministry now posts all of the bridge strike data on its website, as a form of “naming and

Surrey: Spring cleaning made easy with Disposal Days from May 12-30

shaming” and it is stepping up enforcement for those who have hit overpasses multiple times.

The ministry is also considering enhanced fines.

Surrey RCMP: Targeted shooting, targeted stabbing don’t appear to be related

SURREY RCMP said on Monday that two separate investigations in the Whalley area on Sunday evening that left two victims with injuries do not appear to be related to each other beyond close timing and proximity.

Police are requesting anyone with information on either incident to contact them.

On April 30, just before 6 p.m., Surrey RCMP responded to a report of a stabbing near King George Boulevard and Bentley Road, near the RCMP detachment. The 24-yearold victim was transported to hospital with life-threatening injuries and has since been stabilized.

Based on initial information it appears that multiple male suspects arrived in a taxi and confronted the victim who was subsequently stabbed. Although the motive of this incident is unknown, the victim appears to have been targeted and was previously stabbed two weeks ago (April 15) in an incident on board

a SkyTrain travelling through Surrey.

At approximately 8 p.m., a shooting in a residential driveway located in the 10700-block of City Parkway was reported. This was just two blocks away from the spot where the stabbing occurred. Police attended and located a 36-year-old male victim suffering from non-life-threatening injuries.

Three male suspects were seen fleeing the area on foot, but despite police efforts, were not located. The motive for the shooting has yet to be determined, however, the victim is known to police.

Surrey RCMP General Investigation Unit has conduct of both investigations and is actively speaking with witnesses and canvasing for video surveillance. There are no indications that either incident has links to the BC Gang Conflict.

Anyone with information about either incident is asked to contact the Surrey RCMP at 605-599-0502.

Hours of Operation: Mon-Fri:10 AM - 6 PM Sat:11 AM - 5 PM

THE City of Surrey on Monday announce a return of its popular Disposal Days event, providing residents a safe and convenient way to dispose of unwanted waste.

From May 12-30, residents can drop off their recycling, garbage and household items for free or discounted rates at both the new Central Surrey and North Surrey Recycling and Waste centres.

During this promo, all recyclables including mattresses (maximum 4 units), electronics, metals, appliances, paints, used oil, and antifreeze will be free. Garbage disposal fees for the first 300 kg will also be free. Fees will be reduced by 50% for loads between 301 kg up to a maximum of 1,000 kg. Proof of residency required, limit of one trip per household. Commercial and business vehicles not permitted. For details, visit surrey. ca/disposaldays.

Disposal Days is part of the City’s ongoing efforts to promote sustainability and responsible waste management, ensuring that Surrey remains a clean and safe place for everyone.

Can’t make it to the drop-off event? Book a Large Item Pickup and the City will pick up your unwanted items right from your curb. Book online at surrey.ca/largeitems or call 604-590-7289 (Option 3).

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Transportation Minister Rob Fleming

Photo: City of Surrey

Vancouver Police renew appeal for missing 36-year-old Irshaad Ikbal

VANCOUVER Police on Thursday released an additional photo and renewed an appeal for the public’s help in finding a missing 36-year-old Irshaad Ikbal who was last seen on April 29 at around 2 a.m. near the Plaza of Nations on Pacific Boulevard. He became separated from friends and hasn’t been seen or heard from since.

“Each day that passes without finding Irshaad increases our concern for his wellbeing,” said Constable Tania Visintin. “It is

extremely troubling and is out of character for Irshaad to have gone so long without speaking to his family, friends and coworkers.”

Irshaad is South Asian, 5’8” and 155 pounds, with a medium build. He has short black hair, hazel eyes, and a black beard. He was wearing a white button-down shirt with a pink and blue pattern, light blue and ripped denim jeans, and white high-top Converse shoes.

La Belle Vie

“An extensive investigation into Irshaad’s disappearance began as soon as VPD were called,” said Visintin. “This includes a video review from the area Irshaad was last seen, a review of his bank records and his social media accounts, several interviews with those that were with him, and a search of False Creek waters.”

If you have any information that may assist in locating Irshaad Ikbal, you are requested to call the Vancouver Police Missing Person Unit at 604-717-2530 or email vpd.missing@ vpd.ca.

If you wish to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or www. solvecrime.ca.

Indian Consul General Manish in Vancouver during his visit to Victoria interacted with Indian diaspora leaders, including the President of Khalsa Diwan Society of Victoria and the President of Victoria Hindu Parishad and Cultural Center.

Photo: Twitter

Surrey RCMP release videos of 3 South Asian suspects in assault at March 19 protest

RICHMOND RCMP are requesting the public’s assistance in locating a missing 36-year-old man from Burnaby.

Mandeep Singh Dosanjh last spoke with family members at approximately 11 a.m. on April 29.

He is believed to have been staying at a hotel along the 8600 block of Alexandra Road in Richmond that evening, but checked out in the early morning hours.

While Dosanjh does not appear to have any medical conditions for concern, family members are becoming concerned as he is not usually out of contact with family members for this long.

Dosanjh is described as:

* A South Asian male

* 36 years old

* 6 feet tall

* Approximately 180 lbs

* Short black hair

Dosanjh was last seen wearing all black clothing with white sneakers.

SURREY RCMP on Thursday released two short videos of suspects in an assault in order to advance an ongoing investigation.

(Videos: youtu.be/4mLfziawwUc & youtu.be/ft6g43JNG04 or visit our website voiceonline.com)

On March 19 at approximately 5:50 p.m., Surrey RCMP was monitoring a protest in the 8500-block of 132 Street when a fight broke out in the crowd, resulting in an assault.

Police officers intervened and were able to extract the injured male victim and take him to safety, where he was provided medical care for non-life-threatening injuries by Emergency Health Services.

The two short videos from the scene show three suspects who are believed to be involved in the assault.

The first video shows a suspect who is described as a South Asian man in his mid20s to early-30s, with a long black beard, wearing all dark clothing, blue vest and a small blue turban.

The second video shows the second suspect who is described as a South Asian man in his mid-20s to early -30s, with short black beard, wearing all black clothing, black vest and a small black turban. This suspect is seen holding a yellow colour flag in his hand.

The same video shows the third suspect, who is described as a man in his early 20s, wearing all black clothing and a bright orange colour mask.

“The RCMP respects the right to peaceful protests, but unlawful and violent activity such as assaults, will not be tolerated,” said Cpl. Sarbjit Sangha, Surrey RCMP Media Relations Officer. “It is not always safe for police to take immediate enforcement action within a large group of protesters; however, these offences continue to be fully investigated and could lead to subsequent arrests or charges.”

Anyone who can help identify the suspect or provide information about this incident is asked to call the Surrey RCMP General Investigation Unit at 604-599-0502.

Anyone with information about his whereabouts is asked to contact the Richmond RCMP at 604-278-1212. If you wish to remain anonymous, please call

Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or visit them online at www.solvecrime.ca.

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Mandeep Singh Dosanjh

Ethics Commissioner’s decision to accept Surrey Police Union’s complaint is a slap in the face to Surrey Mayor and Councillor Stutt

SURREY’S Ethic Commissioner

Peter Johnson has informed Surrey Police Union that he has accepted their complaint for formal review in connection to Surrey Councillor Rob Stutt.

Last February, the Surrey Police Union revealed that the Surrey Connect councillor 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” while he voted in favour of a motion to end the transition from the RCMP to the Surrey Police Service, and when he was appointed by Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke as the Chairman of the Public Safety Committee.

The SPU submitted a formal request to the Office of the Surrey Ethics Commissioner to investigate Stutt’s alleged breach of the City of Surrey’s rules around conflict of interest.

Johnson wrote to the SPU: “I have reviewed your complaint and have decided to accept your complaint for formal review.”

He added: “This does not mean that I have made any findings or drawn any conclusions, only that (the) complaint meets the threshold requirements for formal review under the Code of Conduct bylaw.”

On April 30, Rick Stewart, SPU President, had written to Johnson: “Just wanted to connect regarding the progress of your investigation. I’m sure you’re following what is happening in Surrey with the province’s decision (or strong recommendation) regarding the future of policing in the city. I suspect that there will be a key motion on

this issue at the council table in the near future and Councillor Stutt’s participation could have a significant impact on that decision.

“In our opinion the conflict still exists, and Councillor Stutt should declare it and abstain from any debate and voting on this topic. If he doesn’t, it’s a new breach that we would file accordingly with your office.”

THE very fact that Johnson has accepted the complaint for formal review is a slap in the face to both Locke and Stutt. Johnson was unanimously appointed as the City’s new Ethics Commissioner in early March following an extensive search performed by the Surrey Ethics Commissioner Selection Committee.

Johnson is a partner with B.C. law firm, Stewart McDannold Stuart, and possesses more than 30 years of knowledge and experience providing legal advice and assistance to local governments throughout the province on a wide variety of matters.

At the time, Locke said: “Restoring

the Ethics Commissioner has been a top priority of mine to bring back transparency and accountability to Council. With his extensive experience on municipal matters, Peter Johnson is the ideal candidate to fulfill the duties of the Office of the Ethics Commissioner.”

Everyone will be closely following what Johnson will decide in Stutt’s case and what reasons he will present.

ONE case that Johnson would do well to read is what we reported on March 30 on our website about a Hamilton councillor based on a CBC story titled: “Councillor docked pay for ‘vociferously’ endorsing Hamilton police budget as son is staff sergeant: report.”

The subheading read: “Ward 7 Coun. Esther Pauls acknowledges she was in the wrong and won’t vote on the police budget Wednesday.”

Pauls was reprimanded by Hamilton’s integrity commissioner for not recusing herself from past votes because her son is a staff sergeant with the Hamilton Police Service (HPS), whose salary is

E

included in the police budget. Pauls is a member of the police services board, the CBC reported.

What made all of this pretty disgusting is that the integrity commissioner’s report found Pauls had debated “with vigour” and “vociferously” endorsed and voted for the police budget at the board meeting in late 2022.

Pauls admitted her conflict of interest, but said she had done so “unknowingly and unintentionally.”

She can remain on the board, but she has to be especially vigilant on declaring conflicts, the CBC reported.

AS The VOICE wrote on March 1: “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.

We pointed out that Stutt in an interview with a local Surrey paper never mentioned the fact that his son is a Mountie.

We then asked a series of questions:

“Why, Stutt, aren’t you proud of having a Mountie son?!

“You didn’t even mention it in your bio on the Surrey Connect site — or anywhere else?

“Or were you trying to hide something?

“And why?

“In any case, why didn’t you tell your fellow Surrey Connect councillors and [Surrey Mayor Brenda] Locke about your son?

“Or did they all know about it, but kept quiet?

“If they all knew about it, then they too are guilty of deception, aren’t they?

“Locke, didn’t you know that Stutt’s son was a Mountie?

“Didn’t you ever ask him what his kids do when you accepted him as a Surrey Connect candidate? (That’s called “due diligence,” by the way!)”

Peter Johnson Rick Stewart Brenda Locke Rob Stutt

U.S. resident sentenced in firearms-related CBSA case

CANADA Border Services Agency (CBSA) announced this week that on April 26, Jonathan Ressler, a United States resident, was sentenced to 30 months in prison after pleading guilty to the possession of loaded, restricted and prohibited firearms without a license.

On March 19, Ressler was seeking entry to Canada at the Pacific Highway port of entry where he was referred for secondary examination. A search of his vehicle

revealed two loaded pistols and four prohibited overcapacity magazines. One of the pistols was a prohibited firearm while the other was a restricted firearm.

CBSA officers arrested and charged him for smuggling and possessing the firearms and prohibited magazines. He remained in custody pending the resolution of his court case.

“We are proud of the work our CBSA investigators and officers are doing to keep

prohibited and restricted firearms out of Canada. By preventing and investigating smuggling attempts, we’re reducing the risk of harm to Canadians. I want to thank the CBSA employees for their continued work and dedication,” said Nina Patel,

Regional Director General, CBSA Pacific Region.

From 2021 to 2022, the Canada Border Services Agency seized more than 1,200 firearms, the largest number of seizures recorded in a single year.

Four inmates stabbed at Matsqui Institution

ON Saturday, April 29 at 9:50 p.m., Abbotsford Police responded to a report of a stabbing that had occurred at the Matsqui Institution located in the 33000-block of King Road.

The BC Ambulance Service, with the assistance of the Abbotsford Fire Rescue Service, treated four inmates who were subsequently transported to hospital, appearing to suffer from serious but not lifethreatening injuries at the time.

The Abbotsford Police’s Major Crime Unit has taken over the investigation with the assistance of patrol officers and the Forensic Identification Section. Investigators said that early indications

suggest that this incident is isolated to the prison, and the public is not at risk.

Meanwhile. Correctional Service Canada said that on April 29, a lockdown was put in place at Matsqui institution, a medium security federal institution, to allow staff to conduct a search of the institution following an assault involving four inmates. The search was ordered to ensure the safety and security of the institution, its staff, and inmates. The police have been notified and the institution is investigating.

Visits have been suspended until the search is completed. Normal operations will resume as soon as it is considered safe to do so.

Photo: CBSA

Imitation handgun seized from youth at Metrotown during proactive patrols

AN airsoft gun closely resembling a handgun was seized by police after a group of youth was seen shooting gel paintball rounds inside the food court area of Metropolis at Metrotown.

Burnaby RCMP’s Community Response Team (CRT) was doing proactive patrols inside the mall on the evening of Friday, April 21, when they witnessed a group of teens with various paintball-style guns shooting gel rounds in the food court area near other mall patrons, creating a public safety concern.

CRT officers were able to quickly intervene, taking several teens into custody. A metal airsoft gun closely resembling a handgun was seized from one of the teens.

The teens were released with warnings after officers spoke with their parents and guardians. The teens have also been banned from the mall by Metrotown Security.

“This reckless behaviour created a dangerous situation for everyone in the area. Not only were these youth putting members of the public at risk by shooting gel paintball rounds in an indoor public space, there was also an airsoft gun that closely resembled a real handgun, which

creates additional concerns for the public and for police,” said Cpl. Mike Kalanj “It’s fortunate our CRT officers were in the area doing proactive patrols at the time and were able to safely intervene.”

Burnaby RCMP say they would like to remind the public that imitation firearms, which include airsoft guns, bb guns, and pellet guns, can pose a real risk to safety as they can be incredibly difficult to distinguish from authentic firearms. This potentially increases the risk to the person in possession of the imitation firearm, bystanders, and responding police officers who must treat realistic-looking firearms as authentic until proven otherwise.

Mohammed Cortes Torres charged in stabbing death of Naseb Fazil in South Vancouver

MOHAMMED Cortes Torres, 25, has been charged with second-degree murder in the stabbing of a 19-year-old man outside a South Vancouver nightclub last year.

Vancouver Police homicide detectives launched an investigation on May 23, 2022, following the death of Naseb Fazil, who was involved in a confrontation outside the Gallery nightclub.

A fight broke out on the street between a large group near Southwest Marine Drive and Hudson Street at 3:30 a.m. and officers

Man convicted, sentenced after three arsons targeting restaurants in Burnaby

AFTER a lengthy and complicated arson investigation involving three deliberately set fires which caused significant damage to two Burnaby restaurants, a 50-year-old man has been convicted of three counts of arson and sentenced in relation to the fires.

In the early morning hours of April 11, 2020, fires were deliberately set at a Korean restaurant and a sushi restaurant on Kingsway near Royal Oak Avenue in Burnaby.

The two fires caused extensive damage to both businesses.

Burnaby RCMP’s Economic Crime Unit, which investigates arsons, led the investigation, gathering and reviewing hundreds of hours of surveillance video as investigators worked to identify a suspect.

On November 6, 2020, a third fire was set, targeting the same sushi restaurant for a second time.

Steven Sean Sorenson was charged in connection to the three fires on November 13, 2020. He was convicted of three counts of arson in BC Supreme Court in November 2022.

On April 21, 2023, Sorenson was sentenced to a prison term of nearly five years, and given a three-year probation order which will take effect once he is released.

“This sentencing is the conclusion of a difficult and painstaking investigation that involved a significant amount of video evidence. Throughout this investigation, our officers remained dedicated to identifying and locating a suspect and gathering sufficient evidence to secure charges,” said Sgt. Aly Mohan with Burnaby RCMP Investigative Services on Monday. The three fires are estimated to have caused more than $550,000 in damage.

found Fazil suffering from stab wounds. He was taken to hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

That investigation led to the arrest of Cortes Torres on Sunday and has now been charged with second-degree murder, Vancouver police said on Tuesday.

Cortes Torres was a Surrey resident at the time of the homicide. Police believe he was more recently staying on Vancouver Island.

Saanich Police assisted during the investigation.

IMMEDIATEL Y NEEDED DRIVER

A black airsoft gun that closely resembles a handgun. Photo: RCMP

Canadian delegation to the Coronation of King Charles III

PRIME Minister Justin Trudeau announced on Wednesday that he and Governor General Mary Simon and Mr. Whit Fraser will travel to the United Kingdom on May 6 to attend the Coronation of King Charles III. Trudeau will be accompanied by Sophie Grégoire Trudeau. They will be joined by Assembly of First Nations National Chief RoseAnne Archibald, President of Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami Natan Obed, and President of the Métis National Council Cassidy Caron. The Clerk of the Privy Council and Secretary to the Cabinet, Janice Charette, will be in attendance.

Canada’s delegation will also include young leaders: Sarah Mazhero of the Prime Minister’s Youth Council, CEO of Young Diplomats of Canada Christina Caouette, founder of Halifax Helpers Rebeccah Raphael, President of the French-Canadian Youth Federation Marguerite Tölgyesi, and Maryam Tsegaye, winner of the global science competition Breakthrough Junior Challenge will attend. Astronaut Jennifer Sidey-Gibbons will also join.

In addition, the Canadian delegation will include member of the Order of Merit and Companion of the Order of Canada Margaret MacMillan and Cross of Valour recipient Leslie Arthur Palmer. They will be accompanied by Canada’s flag bearer, astronaut Jeremy Hansen, who will travel to the moon next year

as part of the Artemis II mission. The three will participate in a procession of recipients of national honours as part of the Coronation service.

The Coronation of King Charles III is the formal celebration of the beginning of his

reign as King of Canada. It is a historic event for Canada’s constitutional monarchy, as the first Coronation in almost 70 years.

In Canada, an official ceremony in Ottawa on May 6 will be broadcast to acknowledge the special relationship the King has had with Canada for over 50 years and celebrate his reign as King of Canada. Canadians will mark the King’s Coronation with celebrations in communities across the country on May 6 and 7, and will be invited to take part in activities organized at Rideau Hall.

The Prime Minister also announced the Government of Canada’s intention to award 30,000 Coronation medals to Canadians who have made significant contributions to the country, a province, territory, region or community, or an achievement abroad that brings credit to Canada. Further details on the design and distribution of the medals will be available in the coming months.

Trudeau said: “Canadians are looking forward to celebrating the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III. Whether from their living rooms, community celebrations, or activities at Rideau Hall, we will come together to ring in the reign of His Majesty

as we continue to build a strong, prosperous Commonwealth for everyone.”

QUICK FACTS:

* Canada is a constitutional monarchy, and the King is Canada’s Head of State.

* King Charles III acceded to the Throne on September 8, 2022, following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.

* A contingent of 45 Canadian Armed Forces members will take part in the Coronation military parade, which will be held in London, United Kingdom. The contingent will be made up of 16 members from the Canadian Army, 11 members from the Royal Canadian Navy, 11 members from the Royal Canadian Air Force, six members from Canadian Special Operations Forces Command and one Officer Cadet from the Royal Military College. These individuals have been selected on the basis of personal merit and represent the best of those who serve in uniform today.

* Five RCMP Musical Ride members will participate in the procession from Westminster Abbey to Buckingham Palace ahead of the King and the Queen Consort.

GIVEYOUR CHILDTHE BEST START TO THE REST OF HIS LIFEWITH AN RESP

King Charles III and Queen Consort Camilla. Photo: Twitter Map of the King’s Procession to Westminster Abbey.

New action plan helps people get skills for in-demand

THE Province’s new StrongerBC: Future Ready Action Plan will help thousands of people get the skills they need to succeed in the changing economy and help close the skills gap many businesses are facing.

“Our economy is growing and innovating quickly,” said Premier David Eby on Tuesday. “Work is transforming, and we have more job openings than skilled people. That’s why we are taking action to make sure people are ready to seize new opportunities and build a good life here in B.C., and businesses are able find the people who drive our economy forward and deliver the services we all rely on.”

The action plan is focused on five pillars:

* making post-secondary education more affordable, accessible and relevant to British Columbians;

* helping people reskill to find in-demand jobs so more employers facing current and future skills shortages can find the people they need;

* breaking down barriers so everyone can find a job where they can thrive;

* addressing Indigenous Peoples’

workforce priorities; and

* ensuring people new to B.C. find a career in the field in which they are trained.

“Every action in Future Ready is designed to take on the challenges of today, to build a better future for people and a stronger economy,” said Selina Robinson, Minister

of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills. “Together, we are building a future in B.C. where people are able to acquire the skills and find the opportunities they need to thrive, and employers are able to find the people they need to sustain and grow their businesses.”

The $480-million action plan is highlighted by a future skills grant of up to $3,500. This grant will cover the cost of training for indemand jobs. Beginning in September 2023, the grant will be available to British Columbians, making it easier for people to select from more than 400 eligible training opportunities at post-secondary institutions throughout B.C. for the most in-demand jobs in areas such as construction, tech, housing and clean energy. For employers, this means some 8,500 newly trained people over the next three years will become skilled and ready to fill positions and address the skills gap.

“I’m hearing from businesses, small and large, that finding skilled labour is one of their biggest challenges,” said Brenda Bailey, Minister of Jobs, Economic

Development and Innovation. “That’s exactly what this initiative will address. It will ensure businesses have access to a skilled and diverse talent pool, now and into the future. Good jobs are good for workers and for businesses. By working together, we can build a better future for B.C.”

The Province is also introducing rapid response training, which will support delivery of short-term training that responds quickly to labour market needs and the evolving economy. In addition, government is establishing TradeUpBC, a continuing education hub for in-demand jobs in the trades. Programs will target certified or experienced workers and will provide valuable skills that complement but do not replace apprentice training. Over three years, it’s estimated that up to 6,000 people will benefit from short-term training and TradeUpBC.

In addition, the plan includes measures that will break down barriers to help people enter the workforce and increase the number of students with job-ready skills needed for the tech-related and engineering workforce, early childhood education services, health-care professions, veterinary professions, teachers, construction jobs and other key sectors. Future Ready will also help employers recruit and retain employees to expand and grow. For more information and links on this, please visit our website voiceonline.com

DURING Question Period at the Legislature on Wednesday, BC United MLA Peter Milobar called out Premier David Eby and his NDP government for their failure to release the results of the forensic audit of BC Housing — a report Eby has had in his possession for nearly two months.

In his remarks, Milobar highlighted the continued chaos and extreme mismanagement at BC

Housing, and the public’s right to transparency about what is going on in the governmentrun organization.

On March 27, Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon said the report would be out within the month, but that never happened. With the housing crisis worse than ever in the province, people deserve to know what is going on at B.C. Housing on this government’s watch, said Milobar.

jobs

“Work is transforming, and we have more job openings than skilled people”

Peter Milobar

Photo: BC United

David Eby. Photo: BC Government

Marking Mental Health Week

BY AMAN SINGH NDP MLA for Richmond-Queensborough

IN recent years, many of us have become more aware of our own mental health and the impact it can have on our daily lives. Each year we mark Mental Health Week in Canada, a chance to share our stories, embrace vulnerability and build resilience.

Earlier this year, our BC New Democrat government released Budget 2023. This budget builds on the work we’ve done in past years, and continues to highlight the importance of improving mental health and addictions support for people. After years of neglect from the previous government, we’re making mental health and addictions care a priority and working to build an integrated system that works for everyone, whenever and wherever they need it.

Mental Health Week gives us an opportunity to reflect and check in with ourselves and our communities. If you are reading this, please know that you are not alone, and support is available for you. By working together, we can erase the stigma and eliminate the discrimination people face when they are look for mental health and addictions support. Being compassionate while having conversations about mental health and addiction is just

one of the ways we can do this day-today, but we know that the work of our government is essential in addressing these issues.

In 2022, we announced the permanent location of a Foundry in Richmond. We have also recently announced an additional twelve coming to communities across B.C., alongside the fifteen that are open right now, with eight more on the way.

Foundry Centres provide mental health, addictions, and primary care for youth aged 12-24 and their families. Richmond is also home to an integrated Child and Youth team, which is designed to fill mental health, wellness, and substance use gaps – this is the first of five teams to be set up, and I’m pleased that we have delivered on this priority and are now delivering care in Richmond with a fully staffed team.

With these initiatives and more, young people and their families will have more access to support, at a younger age. By tackling challenges early, we can set young people up for a lifetime of resilience and success.

This work is integral to the health and wellbeing of our entire communities, and I’m pleased that our BC New Democrat government is taking this work seriously.

While we’re taking strides to improve the lives of people across B.C., we know there is more work to do. Together, we can work to build communities where mental health is valued, protected, and prioritized.

New Westminster Police’s plan to address downtown violence

THE New Westminster Police Department has launched a temporary redeployment plan to address safety in Downtown New Westminster. This plan comes after a shooting, two stabbings, and numerous assaults with weapons in the past two months.

Residents and visitors can anticipate seeing an increased police presence and joint patrols with Metro Vancouver Transit

Police.

“We have seen a number of serious incidents downtown in the last few weeks and we have been hearing from many members of the public and businesses community who have concerns about safety in the area,” said Sgt. Andrew Leaver.

“We will be redeploying members to focus on the downtown core to ensure that public safety remains a priority.”

Member from the Crime Reduction Unit, Road and Traffic Safety Unit, and Gang Suppression Unit will be deployed to the Downtown neighbourhood on bikes, on foot, and in cars. This new deployment model, while temporary, will supplement the work already being done by frontline patrol officers and the Community Engagement Unit. The redeployment plan will be reassessed at the end of May.

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 604-5079945 for registration and further information.

* Vedic Seniors Parivar Centre of Vedic Hindu Cultural Society of BC invites South Asian adults and senior members to join for Antakshari Songs Competition with Hindi songs on Sunday, May 7 from 2 to 3:30 p.m. at Shanti Niketan Hall of Lakshmi Narayan Temple. The participants will be divided into two groups. The game will be explained to you. Tea and snacks will be served.

* Vedic Seniors Parivar Centre is going to celebrate Mother’s Day by holding a potluck on Wednesday, May 17 at Shanti Niketan Hall of Lakshmi Narayan Temple from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Please join to try the variety of vegetarian dishes from Punjab, Gujrat, UP and South India.

AS the next step in preventing the nonconsensual sharing of intimate images, Niki Sharma, Attorney General, has issued a letter to technology companies advising them of the newly enacted Intimate Images Protection Act and their responsibilities under the law.

“The impacts of non-consensual disclosure of intimate images are rarely talked about, but can be long-lasting and devastating,” said Sharma. “With this letter, I expect that social media platforms, dating applications and pornographic websites will do the right thing and align themselves with our legislation to better protect people from this type of sexualized violence and put people before profits.”

Cybertip.ca, a national hotline for reporting the online sexual exploitation of children, indicated it has received a 150% increase in reported threats to distribute young people’s intimate images online over the past six months. The emotional and psychological impacts of the nonconsensual disclosure of intimate images can be wide-ranging and overwhelming.

THE BC United said on Thursday that despite being elected by the people of Vancouver-West End — and running for reelection in that riding in the 2020 election

— NDP MLA Spencer Chandra Herbert has been living at a waterfront property in a Victoria suburb for the past three years while generating rental income from his former residence in Vancouver.

“By all accounts, he seems to be very engaged in his new community and fitting in nicely with his neighbours — even participating in Colwood City Council meetings to discuss his concerns about local sidewalks,” says Trevor Halford, BC United MLA for Surrey-White Rock.

“But rest assured, he hasn’t completely abandoned his constituents in the West End. Taxpayers have been footing the bill for him to take day trips between Vancouver Island and the mainland to visit

The letter advises companies such as Meta, Twitter, Tinder, Grindr, PornHub and OnlyFans of the new expedited legal process created under the legislation and their responsibility to comply. The legislation makes it easier for people to get a legal decision that an intimate image was recorded or distributed without consent, and order people to stop distributing or threatening to distribute intimate images. The legislation streamlines the process for getting images taken off the internet and will provide recourse for minors to pursue legal action to stop the distribution of their private images on their own.

Under this legislation, a judge or tribunal decision-maker can order a social media company, online platform or any website to stop distribution and remove an intimate image from its platform. These applications can be made without notice and without naming a respondent.

If they do not comply with court orders, technology companies could face consequences, such as administrative penalties and orders to pay for damages. The legislation will come into force through regulation in the coming months.

The Intimate Images Protection Act is part of a multi-year, cross-government action plan to help end gender-based violence.

the community that elected him.”

Taxpayers foot $70,000 bill for Vancouver NDP MLA Chandra Herbert to live in Victoria B.C. offers protection for people’s intimate images

Since making Colwood his primary residence in 2020, Chandra Herbert has hit taxpayers with more than $70,000 in travel expenses, including thousands of dollars in round-trip travel from his Capital Region property to Vancouver, added Halford.

“While it’s commonplace for MLAs to expense travel between their constituency and the Legislature, this situation is quite different. The fact that MLA Chandra Herbert feels he is entitled to spend taxpayer money to ‘visit’ his riding, be seen by his constituents, and pick up some rent cheques while he’s there is a bad look for the guy hand-picked by the Premier to be the government’s Liaison for Renters,” continues Halford. “MLA Chandra Herbert needs to come clean with his constituents and explain this debacle immediately.”

Spencer Chandra Herbert.

Niki Sharma.

Outstanding youth achievements recognized at annual SASSY Awards

THE 13th Annual Service Above Self Surrey Youth (SASSY) Awards were presented on Tuesday, May 2 during BC Youth Week to honour achievements of local youth. Attendees gathered at the Surrey Arts Centre to celebrate 35 nominees in six award categories.

“It’s so wonderful to see young people in Surrey taking on leadership roles and working for a better future for everyone,” said Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke. “On behalf of Council, I would like to thank and commend all SASSY award recipients for their contributions to our city. I would also like to thank all the sponsors, performers, volunteers and youth leaders who helped to

put on this great event.” Awards were presented to three finalists in the categories of Arts and Culture Leadership, Community Service, Environmental Leadership, Youth Leadership, Overcoming Adversity and Sports and Recreation Leadership. The award recipients of each category received $1,500 along with a $500 donation to present to a charity of their choice. The two finalists in each category both received $500 to honour their achievements in the community as well as a $250 donation to present to the charity of their choice. Presented by Semiahmoo Rotary Club along with the City of Surrey, the 13th annual

SASSY Awards featured Kevin Kelly and Michael Kelly-Gabriel, from Kwantlen First Nations for an Indigenous welcome, and performances by the Kwel Eng Sen Dance Group from Semiahmoo First Nations, headliner Josh Bogert, singer-song writers Phoenix Lauren and Karishma Deo. Proceeds from the SASSY Awards support Rotary youth programs like Interact and

Rotaract, where youth from the community lead projects locally and globally to help make the world a better place. Any surplus proceeds generated from the event support special youth projects in the community and future SASSY awards.

For more information and a full list of award recipients, visit sassyawardssurrey.ca

Bold new vision for Gastown, says Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim

VANCOUVER Mayor Ken Sim on Tuesday announced that next week, Vancouver City Council will consider a motion to deliver a bold new vision for Gastown including:

* Repairing roads and sidewalks * Exploring options to pedestrianize Water Street * Starting a planning process to enhance public spaces

Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim in Gastown. Photo by SUKHWANT DHILLON / AM600 Sher E Punjab Radio

Photo: City of Surrey

Fraud reported by nearly half of B.C. government ministries

FORTY-FIVE per cent of B.C. government ministries were exposed to at least one form of fraud between 2021 and 2022, according to responses to a questionnaire about fraud risk management in the public sector.

The Office of the Auditor General sent the questionnaire to 22 ministries in September 2022 to gauge perceptions about fraud, its impact, and efforts to manage the risk.

Auditors will use information from the questionnaire during the upcoming audit of the Province’s 2022-23 summary financial statements.

“Strong fraud risk management helps safeguard public dollars and investments,”

Auditor General Michael Pickup said on Tuesday. “Ministries have a common framework for managing fraud risk, but their responses suggest that they may not be following the same approach or don’t have a full understanding of the framework.”

The responses show that:

* Of the 45 per cent of ministries affected by fraud, the most common cases were theft of physical assets (36 per cent), and vendor, supplier or procurement fraud (14 per cent).

* 50 per cent of ministries reported the need to be highly vigilant against fraud.

* 50 per cent of ministries said they didn’t have a risk assessment process even though the Office of the Comptroller General coordinates an annual government-wide risk assessment.

* 18 per cent of ministries had not established policies and procedures to respond to

Over 10,000 celebrate sustainability at Party for the Planet

potential fraud.

The questionnaire responses are selfreported and not audited, so individual ministries are not identified. Auditors will verify the answers as part of the 2022-23 summary financial statement audit. This work highlights these matters for MLAs as they hold government accountable.

The report was tabled in the legislature on Tuesday, and will be reviewed by the Standing Committee on Public Accounts. It is the second of two reports on fraud risk and financial statements in the public sector. The first report focused on Crown organizations, post-secondary institutions, school districts, health authorities and associations.

Phone switching scam in Richmond

RICHMOND RCMP have recently been investigating two fraudulent online cellphone sales. Buyers responded to ads that were placed on Facebook Marketplace for the latest generation of popular phones made by a wellknown company named after a fruit.

On April 27, two buyers on separate occasions had arranged to purchase phones from a seller. Upon meeting, the victims viewed an authentic phone. After money had been exchanged, the authentic phone was

switched with a counterfeit version by sleight of hand.

“Everyone likes to save money and finding a good deal can be very enticing. The vast majority of transactions are seamless and proceed without any issues. We simply wish to remind the community that there are some bad actors that do not have your best interests at heart,” cautioned Cpl. Dennis Hwang, Communications Officer, Richmond RCMP, on Tuesday.

THE City of Surrey hosted its 12th annual free Earth Day celebration, Party for the Planet, at Civic Plaza last Saturday. The event attracted over 10,000 attendees that wanted to increase their knowledge of environmental initiatives and learn how they can live more sustainably.

This year’s event featured environmental workshops on how to build solar-light mason jars, make beaded moccasin keychains, plant native pollinators, reuse old fabrics to make scrunchies, and more. They also shopped from local vendors at the sustainable marketplace for aromatherapy and skincare products, tea, artwork, jewelry, beeswax food wraps and sustainable cleaning products.

Additional activities included the Surrey Parks plant sale, which sold over 1,000 shrubs, perennials, ferns and fruit plants.

University Drive was filled with families as kids climbed the rock-climbing wall, enjoyed e-bike demonstrations, ate at food trucks, and listened to local live music on the Earth Stage. Children’s performances were held on the TD Bank Group Family Stage, as well as dance battles and lessons on the Community Stage presented by Concord Pacific.

Attendees are invited to provide feedback on the 2023 event for a chance to win $250 to Guildford Town Centre. To take the survey, visit www.partyfortheplanet.ca.

Michael A. Pickup. Official photo

Photo: City of Surrey

Exclusive “F1 Edition” for the AMG C63 SE-Performance Sedan

Review by Veeno Dewan

AffAlteRbAch-Germany: The new MercedesAMG C 63 S E Performance is a real game changer in the 55-year history of AMG. With know-how from Formula 1™, it brings state-ofthe-art technologies from motorsport to the road. The innovative hybrid concept with an electric motor and AMG high-performance battery on the rear axle combines a superior system output of 500 kW (671 hp) with impressive driving dynamics and high efficiency. This makes the Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance the perfect ambassador for the Future of Driving Performance. With the exclusive exterior and interior features of the special “F1 Edition” model, Mercedes-AMG is now making the electrified future even more visible.

The 2024 C 63 S E Performance F1 Edition Sedan will be limited to 36 units in Canada. The exclusive Manufaktur alpine grey solid paint finish is a striking distinguishing feature. It is combined with decals on the vehicle flanks consisting of the AMG logo and colour gradient from grey to black. Red trim lines on the sides and front and rear aprons add further colour accents. The 20-inch AMG forged wheels in a 5-twin-spoke design are painted matte black. The red rim flanges provide an attractive contrast and thus follow the colour scheme of

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the wheels of the Official FIA F1 Medical Car™ from Mercedes-AMG.

The Fi Edition will be equipped with AMG Aerodynamics Package, The AMG Night Package and the AMG Stealth Package also enhance the motorsport appearance of the “F1 Edition”. The front splitter, the trim elements in the front fenders, the outside mirror housings, the beltline trim strip and the window surrounds are all finished in high-gloss black. In addition, the radiator grille louvres, the trim strip in the rear apron, the twin tailpipe trims of the AMG exhaust system and the model badge on the trunk lid are all finished in black chrome. The AMG fuel filler cap in silver chrome with “AMG” lettering also emphasises the special status of the edition.

The interior is characterised by the contrast of black and red. The AMG Performance seats are particularly refined with upholstery in Exclusive black nappa leather with red decorative topstitching and embossed AMG emblems in the front head restraints. The AMG Performance steering wheel in nappa leather / Dinamica microfiber with red decorative topstitching and the AMG door sill trims with red illuminated “AMG” lettering are a perfect match. The finishing touches are the exclusive Edition badge in the interior and specific AMG floor mats with Exclusive “F1 Edition” for the AMG C 63 S E Performance Sedan.

Review by Veeno Dewan

bRossARD, Qc – Electric vehicles today are not limited to urban use. Improvements in range and a fast charging system allow drivers to cover great distances in a short period of time, for a fraction of the cost of using a gas-powered model. Mr. Patrick Nadeau recently demonstrated this by driving his IONIQ 5 from his home in Disraeli, QC all the way to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

This 15,700 kilometre round trip cost Mr. Nadeau $630 CAD in charging costs, a fraction of the cost in fuel that he would have had to pay with an internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle. The cost savings were just the start of the benefits for this epic road trip.

Formerly the owner of two pick-up trucks, it was mainly for financial reasons that Mr. Nadeau selected the IONIQ 5 as his vehicle. “It was a purely mathematical decision,” Nadeau explains, adding that he would pay between $1,200 and $1,400 CAD for gas per month with his previous vehicles. “I save hundreds every month by driving electric,” says Mr. Nadeau.

Thanks to its generous trunk space and spacious second-row for passengers, the IONIQ 5 met all the criteria for this father of three, who also relies on his IONIQ 5 for his work.

Owner of a company specializing in virtual reality, Mr. Nadeau brought his equipment during his 116 days’ journey, in order to create new virtual reality experiences in the national parks visited on his route. He passed through the American Midwest to visit the parks of Bryce Canyon, Zion, Arches and Grand Canyon.

Mr. Nadeau traversed through the desert during the day, and set up camp in his IONIQ 5 at night, where he slept. “The nights in the desert are quite cold, so I put my equipment in my tent and I slept in the car with the heat on at 20 degrees,” says Mr. Nadeau, adding that an entire night with the heating on only required about 10 per cent of battery reserves.

Wht’s more, the V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) function allowed Mr. Nadeau to operate his electrical equipment by plugging it into the IONIQ 5’s V2L adapter. “It allowed me to work and recharge the batteries of my equipment in national parks, where campgrounds are often

without service,” explains Mr. Nadeau, who even plugged in a portable stove to cook.

Once in Mexico, trip planning became crucial due to the low number of fast charging stations, which are easy to find in Canada and the United States but almost non-existent south of the U.S. border. That said, Mr. Nadeau was able to continue his journey to Puerto Vallarta without issue. The IONIQ 5 was able to travel up to 460 kilometres on a single charge, with another 7 per cent in reserve. “It totally met my expectations,” he says. Upon returning home, the IONIQ 5’s trip computer showed an average power consumption of 18.5 kWh/100 km for the entire trip.

Patrick Nadeau does not regret his tricountry trip, rather he has a sense of pride for accomplishing such an important journey many

wonder is even possible. Mr. Nadeau hopes his story will convince a few people of the viability of electric vehicles, even for those who regularly travel long distances. “I no longer see any real constraint to the adoption of electric vehicles,” Mr. Nadeau concludes.

The IONIQ 5 has set a new standard for Hyundai electric vehicles with a driving range of up to 488 kilometres, and a best-in-class charging system that can gain 285 kilometres of range in only 15 minutes. A new E-GMP platform improves performance, enhances driving dynamics and optimizes interior volume and was the first model in Hyundai’s new family of IONIQ electric vehicles.

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Ford Mustang : Worlds Best-Selling Sports Car - Last 10 Years

2023 Mazda MX-30 EV: Canadian Pricing and Packaging

Review by Veeno Dewan

DEARBORN, Mich. – Over the last 10 years combined, Ford Mustang® – which is celebrating its 59th birthday – is the world’s best-selling sports car, according to Ford analysis of registration data from S&P Global Mobility.

“We’re proud of the entire Mustang family, what it represents to Ford and especially our passionate Mustang owners and fans,” said Dave Bozeman, the Vice President of Enthusiast Vehicles for Ford Blue and Ford Customer Service Division, “It’s our commitment to serving Mustang’s global community, from Atlanta to Adelaide and beyond, that has earned Mustang the honor of world’s best-selling sports car for 10 years combined.”

According to Ford internal data, the United States remains home to the strongest demand for Mustang representing 78 percent of global sales. Other markets that saw growth in Mustang sales in 2022 include Germany, up 17.0 percent, Britain, up 14.4 percent, Switzerland, up 14.9 percent and the Middle East, up 7.4 percent.

The all-new, seventh-generation 2024 Ford Mustang adds another chapter to an icon, delivering the looks, sound and appeal of the

world’s best-selling sports car over the last ten years combined. Whether convertible or coupe, V8 or turbocharged 4-cylinder, manual or automatic, Mustang has options at multiple price points and performance levels.

Mustang has two new engines – a 2.3-liter EcoBoost and the Mustang GT’s most powerful 5.0-liter Coyote V8 ever. Plus, an all-new Remote Rev feature that provides the ability to rev the car’s engine remotely using the key fob, and an available new Electronic Drift Brake that can quickly turn a novice into a drifting pro, like Vaughn Gittin Jr. Mustang Dark Horse™ expands the lineup as the first new performance name for the brand since Mustang Bullitt was introduced in 2001 and aims for a new benchmark for street and track performance that could only come in a Mustang with sinister looks and a specially modified 5.0-liter V8 – the most powerful 5.0-liter V8 ever, generating 500 horsepower.

The Mustang Mach-E ® SUV, the electric addition to the Mustang family, is now available in 39 countries with recent launches in Taiwan and Australia. Ford has produced its 150,000th Mustang Mach-E since starting production nearly two years ago, a significant milestone as the company scales EV production to a rate of 600,000 annually by late 2023 and more than 2 million annually by 2026.

Mazda Canada Inc. announced the 2023 Mazda MX-30 EV will be arriving in all Canadian retail stores this spring. The MX-30 EV maintains Mazda’s core values in engaging driving dynamics and distinct design to help owners create an emotional bond with the electric crossover.

Equipped with Mazda’s e-Skyactiv technology and a 35.5 kWh lithiumion battery, the MX-30 helps add driving enjoyment to a typical drive around the neighborhood. Designed to meet the needs of most urban residents, the MX-30 is ideal for daily commuting with a Transport Canadaestimated range of 161 kilometres on a full charge. The MX-30’s modern styling is distinctly Mazda, while also bringing unique design features such as freestyle doors and a floating center console to express the openness of the vehicle. The use of cork in the interior adds warmth and pays homage to Mazda’s heritage as a cork manufacturer.

The 2023 Mazda MX-30 GS is wellequipped with many standard features that drivers and occupants will further enjoy and have peace of mind with the ownership of this electric vehicle crossover. The 8.8inch large center display features the latest Mazda Connect™ system with Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™, along with and a complimentary three-month trial of SiriusXM™ satellite radio. All MX-30 models offer many i-Activsense safety features.

Drivers and occupants will appreciate the standard heated front seats, black leatherette seats with light grey fabric, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, heated steering wheel, and heated door mirrors with turn signal lamps. Additionally, the seven-inch digital gauge display, eight-way adjustable driver seat, four-way adjustable passenger seat, rearview camera with rear parking sensors, 18-inch silver finish aluminum alloy wheels, LED headlights, LED daytime running lights, LED rear combination lights, and Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry are among the many standard features.

The 2023 Mazda MX-30 GT enhances the experience inside the vehicle with Bose 12-speaker premium audio, 360° View Monitor with front parking sensors, autodimming rearview mirror with HomeLink® wireless control system, power moonroof, 10-way power driver’s seat with power lumbar support, memory driver’s seat, and a conventional power outlet socket for convenient device plug-in or charging. Outside of the vehicle, additional features include front wiper de-icer, Adaptive Frontlighting System, auto levelling headlights, exterior mirrors with reverse tilt-down function, exterior mirrors linked with memory seat function, auto-dimming driver’s side exterior mirror, and signature lighting on taillights..

MSRP for the 2023 MX-30 EV is as follows: MX-30 GS - $42,650/ MX-30 GT - $47,650.

Review by Veeno Dewan

MATRIMONIAL & PERSONALS

Phone: 604-502-6100

Fax: 604-501-6111

Email: voiceclassified@gmail.com

Ramdasia Sikh Mehton family seeks a suitable match for their son, 29 yr., 5-11 tall, post graduated, handsome, non-smoker, non drinker from an educated family working as sale manager in India. The girl should be Canadian citizen /PR / work permit, educated and beautiful. Sister with family is well settled in Canada. Contact: 6045056176 or write2rkj@gmail.com.

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A Saraswat brahim Canadian citizen 27 year old living in Port Coquitlam, BC is looking for a decent girl. Boy is working as appliances technician. Horoscope 12 December 1995, Time 10:35am, 5 ft 9 in, POB Ludhiana. Contact 6049997125.

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Seeking a beautiful girl for a Ramgarhia boy, Canadian Citizen, brought up in India, 36, 5’11”, commercial pilot, based in Vancouver, never married. Girl should be from a respected family, Canadian Citizen/PR from Surrey/Vancouver region, tall, educated, respectful to elders, and loving towards the family members. For more information contact 604-729-8123.

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Sikh Family looking a suitable match for their handsom, 29 old years old son, 5;10”, well settled in a government job. Girl should be a Canadian PR or citizenship. Work permit will also be considered. Caste no bar. Please contact 604-562-4473.

Seeking a girl for Canadian citizen 35, 5’10 handsome Sikh boy. Post graduated and well settled in his career. Girl should be well educated, 5’3” plus, familyoriented. Caste no bar. Please contact: 7789680771

Suitable match for NRI Kamboj Sikh boy PR,Veg,30 years, 5’11’’ B.Tech, PG diploma from Canada,doing Govt job in BC,Own house in Canada,Parents retired Govt. employee,rural and urban property,upper caste welcome.+1-778-386-2812 *********

Suitable match wanted for an Australian Khatri Sikh boy, 35 years, 6’2”, clean shaven, very handsome, health professional, handsome salary, down to earth, never married, looking for a simple, humble, family-oriented girl, caste no bar. Please contact at 778-919-7948 or kamaljit10@hotmail.ca

Well settled Punjabi Aggarwal boy, 5’-10” 74 born, issueless divorcee, USA Citizen, Own logistics business in California looking for a Hindu girl. Please Contact at 925-200-6838 (whatsapp) Email: manish_22us@ yahoo.com *********

Tonk Kashatriya Hindu Family seeking a suitable match for their daughter, 44 years old, innocently divorced, 5’7”, well educated. Boy should be well educated and family oriented. Caste no bar. For more information, please call 604-760-3129

GROOM WANTED

Sikh Family looking for a suitable match for their Canadian born, good looking girl. Age 29, and 5’7” tall. Boy should be Canadian Citizen and able to speak good English as well. Call 7782226692.

Well settled Jat Sikh family looking for suitable match for their handsome, 24 year old, 6’ tall Canadian born son. BBA in Accounting. Working with reputable firm, 2nd year CPA. Girl should be Canadian born, no less than 5’6”, beautiful & family oriented. For more info call 778 895-6866

PERSONAL

40’s good looking male, searching for a female friend. I am fit and attractive, workout and love music. Discretion assured and respected. Call : 604-618-2820

Looking for educated working professional as suitable match for well educated Hindu female (‘81 Canadian born, never married) working with government. Caste no bar. Connect at m23vancouver@gmail.com *********

Hindu Punjabi Parents are looking a suitable match for their daughter, 29 years old, 5’6”, beautiful, well educated, permanent resident, lives in Surrey. Boy should be well educated and a Canadian Permanent Resident. For more info please contact 778-388-5008 *********

Canadian citizen 34 , Hindu Arora beautiful girl 5”2 working in Bank Vancouver, Divorced (was a Short term marriage) seeking for a suitable match and boy should be in Canada.For more information please contact 7788953832. *********

Suitable match for a Saraswat Brahmin girl, 31 years old, 5’3”, Birthtime: 5:30 PM, diploma in computer Engg., BSCIT, MCA, MA in English. Contact: +919780616051 (India), +1-604-999-7125. We consider Divorce too. We need Canadian PR or Citizen boy. *********

Respectable well established Sidhu Family looking for a suitable match for their daughter born in 1981 in Vancouver, never married, university graduate, working as marketing manager with reputed international company. For more information call: 604-319-0662 *********

Seeking SQM for Indian Born Ravidasia/Girl 31 years old, 5’6”, BPT from India with PR status. Boy should be educated with PR/Citizen status, same caste is preferable. Please send complete biodata and pictures at: doctordass@yahoo.com or doctor_daljit@yahoo. com

Jat sikh family looking a suitable match for their daughter 29 years old, 5,4”, PR applied, education MA Pol Sci, B. Ed diploma in early childhood education, working as registered early childhood education. Boy should be educated, Canadian Citizen, PR or PR applied. Call - WhatsApp: 011-91-9876497111 or 604-817-3276.

Brace yourself for action. And excitement. No, we’re not talking about the next James Bond movie in whatever century that comes around. Instead we get to see a real live soldier go to whatever lengths necessary to remain aliveand exact revenge in the new Lionsgate Studios thriller SISU now in Select Cineplex Cinemas and Lionsgate Theatres across B.C. before going to streaming and coming out on DVD and Blu-rayArmchair historians will hone in on the sincere efforts of the filmmakers to take us deep inside war torn Eastern Europe during World War 2. Thankfully Cinematic Red PR helps facilitate this perilous journey

It’s spy versus spy or more correctly soldier versus soldier when a law (?) abiding citizen and former soldier of fortune just wants to to about living. Remember this is during World War 2 after Finland fought a long hard campaign against the Russians. Now it’s the

Germans turn to wage war on the Finnish frontier. Little do the Nazis know they’ve picked the wrong war and in particular the wrong man to mess with.

Known to his people in folklore as the immortal SISU and feared by the Russians actor Jorma Tommila stands tall as Aatami, the man of few words killing machine. Think Arnold, the Punisher and any other comic book character combined and that won’t even come close to the methods this loner uses to take his life, his neighborhood and his nation back.

Yes there is violence. And the gore flows freely as this simple man gets caught up in a vicious contest of wills with an elite Nazi commander in This winner

take all fight for survival framed in gold. Talk about shades of Goldfinger minus the glamour. Instead SISU is a film that is tensionpacked with great battles and confrontations that will keep you guessing and cheering endlessly.

For more reviews please visit my website moviereviewssite.com

I, Narinder Singh son of Darshan Singh, holder of Indian Passport No. U0651813 issued at Vancouver on 22.10.2019, resident of #129 Sechewal, Jalandhar PIN-144701, Punjab, India and presently residing at #9055 137A Street, Surrey BC V3V 7N6 Canada, do hereby change my name from Narinder Singh to Narinder Singh Pawar from the date effect.

I, Rajwinder Kaur daughter of Bhupinder Singh and wife of Narinder Singh, holder of Indian Passport No. K2424303 issued at Jalandhar on 26.10.2013, resident of Village Seechewal, PO Rupewal Teh Shahkot, Jalandhar PIN-144629, Punjab, India and presently residing at #9055 137A Street Surrey BC V3V 7N6, Canada, do hereby change my name from Rajwinder Kaur to Rajwinder Kaur Pawar from the date effect.

CRIME OF THE WEEK

Surrey met or beat all of its Guaranteed Permitting Timelines in first quarter

THE City of Surrey said on Tuesday that demand for development is high in Surrey and improvements in its development approval processes are continuing to provide significant positive impact on overall community access to housing.

Surrey City Council received an update on Monday that the City continued to meet or beat all of its Guaranteed Permitting Timelines in the first quarter of 2023.

Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke said: “I’m pleased that the City has continued to meet its Guaranteed Permitting Timelines in the first quarter of 2023. I commend the hard work of staff in meeting these targets – and beating them in many cases. Surrey has taken a very bold step in setting ambitious targets for processing applications, and for being

transparent and open in reporting our performance in meeting these targets each quarter.

“This Council recognizes that we are in a housing crisis in this region, and that our role is to do what we can to help deliver good, affordable housing along the with industrial and commercial space that supports good jobs, and to do it as smoothly and efficiently as possible.”

In the first quarter of 2023, the City experienced an increase in applications for Tenant Improvement Building Permits and Rezoning Applications versus the same quarter last year. New staff resources have been onboarded to assist with site servicing reviews and the associated processing time is expected to be reduced in the coming weeks.

The City also seeks to add Renovation / Addition Building Permits, Electrical Permits, and Plumbing Permits to the Guaranteed Permitting Timelines, with implementation in mid-2023.

On average, the City receives 850 Single-Family building permits, 520 Tenant Improvement building permits, and 130 Rezoning applications per year.

The City of Surrey said it is committed to continuous improvement and is consulting with the development and building industries to find new ways of doing things more efficiently. Staff will continue to further streamline the permitting experience based on data and engagement with the land development industry, including guaranteed permitting timelines for additional permit types.

AFTER nearly two years of negotiations, the Public Service Alliance of Canada reached tentative agreements with Treasury Board for the PA, SV, TC and EB groups representing more than 120,000 federal public service workers. The agreements put an immediate end to the nationwide general strike that began on April 19, the PSAC announced on last Sunday night.

The new collective agreements – spanning from June 2021 to June 2024 – provide wage increases that close the gap with inflation, totaling 12.6% in compounded wage increases over the term of the contract. An additional fourth year was added to the original proposal, and delivers a full inflationary increase for the final year of the contract, as well as a pensionable lump sum payment of $2,500, and addresses PSAC members’ key priorities on remote work, contracting out and seniority.

Over 100,000 PSAC members joined more than 250 picket lines across the country throughout the strike. PSAC members working for Treasury Board bargaining units began returning to work beginning May 1.

“PSAC members held the line together and secured a fair contract that keeps up with the cost of living, increased protections around remote work, and creates safer, more inclusive workplaces,” said Aylward.

Strike action continues across the country for 35,000 members at Canada Revenue Agency May 1 as negotiations resume with a new mandate from CRA to reach a fair contract.

The Public Service Alliance of Canada is Canada’s largest federal public service union, representing nearly 230,000 workers in every province and territory in Canada, including more than 120,000 federal public service workers employed by Treasury Board, and more than 35,000 employed by the Canada Revenue Agency.

THE Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC) and the Union of Taxation Employees (UTE) reached a tentative agreement with the Canada Revenue Agency for more than 35,000 federal public service workers. The agreement puts an immediate end to the nationwide general strike for all PSAC members that began on April 19.

“PSAC-UTE members held the line together and secured a fair contract that keeps up with the cost of living, increased protections around remote work, and creates safer, more inclusive workplaces,” said Chris Aylward, PSAC National President, on Thursday.

The new collective agreement – in effect from October 2021 to October 2025 – provides wage increases that close the gap with inflation, totaling 12.6% in compounded wage increases over the term of the contract. PSAC secured an additional fourth year in the agreement that protects workers from inflation for the final year of the contract, as well as a pensionable lump sum payment of $2,500, and addresses PSACUTE members’ key priorities on remote work, hours of work, contracting out and seniority.

Together with Treasury Board members, over 100,000 PSAC members joined more than 250 picket lines across the country throughout the strike. PSAC members working for CRA returned to work May 4.

“Union of Taxation Employees’ members have been there for Canadians during the pandemic not only to resolve tax issues, but to deliver vital emergency financial aid to millions of Canadians in record time,” said Marc Brière, Union of Taxation Employees National President.

“CRA call centre members also stepped in to assist with the passport and Afghanistan refugee crisis when the government needed them most,” Brière added. “I’m incredibly proud of our members that supported our bargaining team on the picket lines to help us secure the fair contract that they deserve.’

PSAC and Treasury Board reach tentative agreements, ending national strike for 120,000 workers

PSAC-UTE and CRA reach tentative agreement, ending twoweek national strike

Photo: City of Surrey

BCREA 2023 Second Quarter Housing Forecast: BC Housing Market Expected to Strengthen Later This Year

Vancouver, BC – May 2, 2023. The British Columbia Real Estate Association (BCREA) released its 2023 Second Quarter Housing Forecast today.

Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) residential sales in BC are forecast to decline 6.6 per cent to 75,530 units this year. In 2024, MLS® residential sales are forecast to post a strong rebound, rising 19.3 per cent to 90,100 units.

“An uptick in home sales to start the spring, despite still high mortgage rates, indicates how much pentup demand there is in the market waiting to be unlocked,” said BCREA Chief Economist Brendon Ogmundson. “With the Bank of Canada on hold and fixed mortgage rates still stubbornly high, home sales are unlikely to fully normalize this year.”

While home sales remain close to 25 per

cent below normal, the inventory of homes for sale has not accumulated significantly as potential sellers have held off on listing their homes in a down market. While significant uncertainty surrounds the economic outlook, the current market shows no signs of financial vulnerability or highly motivated sellers. As sales recover into a low inventory

market, prices will likely begin to rise month-overmonth and finish the year higher than at the start. However, on an annual basis, average prices are still expected to be down about 6.1 per cent from a record high in 2022.

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*Subjec ttocreditapproval.Conditionsandrestrictionsapply. CIBCreser vesthe right to amendorterminateany oralloftheproducts, servicesorassociatedoffers,includingpricingorinterest ratesatanytimeandwithoutadvance notice, unlessotherwise requiredbylaw,regulationoragreement.Physician &Surgeon/Dental/Optometryprac tisingprofessionalsmustberegisteredwiththeirrespectiveprovincialprac ticeregulator ybodies,subjec ttoconditions andrestrictions. †ThisLimitedtimecashbackofferisvaliduntil April 30,2022basedonapplication date and available for mor tgageloans fo rsttimehomebuyers,mor tgage loans fornewpurchase,ormortgageloans that are transferred to CIBCfromanother nancialinstitution.Mortgageloansmustbefundedwithin120daysofapplicationdate. Mortgageloanmusthave aprincipal amount of$100,000ormore, andbeeither aCIBCFixed-RateClosed Mortgageloanwith atermof4yearsormoreora 5-yearCIBCVariable Flex Mortgageloan.A personalCIBCchequingaccountfromwhichpre-authorizedmor tgagepaymentsare madeis required.Qualifyingclientswill receive$3,000 on amor tgage

Dealing With Endometriosis

WHY do some women shy away from sex?

It might be fatigue after a long day where everything, everything, has gone wrong.

But before men jump to conclusions, they should know about a disease called endometriosis. This problem causes severe pain during sex. It occurs in about 10 percent of women and has a profound effect of their lives. And, about 30 percent will have trouble becoming pregnant.

Some women with endometriosis may be fortunate. In spite of extensive disease, they are completely free of symptoms. Others, with minimal amounts of endometriosis bitterly complain of a variety of symptoms.

What is endometriosis? At the end of a menstrual cycle women experience vaginal bleeding. The inside of the uterus, called the endometrium, starts to break down, resulting in a normal menstrual period.

Doctors cannot completely explain why some women also have misplaced endometrial lining in the abdominal cavity. This also bleeds. But since this blood is trapped, with nowhere to escape, it triggers pelvic symptoms.

Endometritis is the unfortunate result, an inflammatory reaction throughout the pelvic cavity. Depending on the location of the abnormal endometrium, the pain can be intense. The uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes can be affected, as can the urinary bladder or the ureter, a small tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder. All too often the endometriosis is scattered throughout other parts of the pelvic cavity.

However, the prime location for this disease is at the end of the vagina where the uterosacral ligaments provide support for the vaginal tissues. It is a very sensitive area after endometriosis triggers inflammation of these ligaments. They become thickened, scarred and terribly tender. Often the disease causes the formation of large abdominal cysts full of blood.

It’s then small wonder that patients complain of a diversity of symptoms. In addition to painful sex, they suffer from generalized chronic abdominal pain, low backache, and fatigue. Abnormal bleeding is common too.

What causes more anxiety is that about 30 percent of these women have trouble becoming pregnant.

The actress Susan Sarandon, who suffered with this condition and advocates for the Endometriosis Foundation of America, said, “Endometriosis was definitely another character in any relationship that I had.” The comedian Whoopi Goldberg has also spoken about the need for more attention. “There is nothing dirty about it. No religious group is going to be pissed if you discuss this. Because if you don’t discuss it, many more women are going to find themselves unable to have children or find themselves close to dying because [the disease has] led to something else.”

Medical treatment is always tried first. Birth control can provide relief by stopping periods.

Surgery is usually done if doctors believe endometriosis is widespread throughout the abdomen. Doctors then resort to abdominal laparoscopy. What they see is often endometrial lesions involving many areas of the pelvic cavity along with extensive involvement of the uterosacral ligaments.

Looking at these lesions though the laparoscope allows doctors to destroy them with an electric current. And if ovarian cysts are present these can also be removed, conserving normal tissue for future pregnancies.

What about menopause? The pain may improve once periods stop and there is a lack of the female hormone estrogen.

There is always hope that laparoscopic surgery and destruction of endometrial lesions will result in a wanted pregnancy. However, the constant waiting can be terribly frustrating for those desiring pregnancy.

the Human Development sectors at the World Bank, including health policy and economics, nutrition, and population health.

An Italian proverb reassures. “Hope is the last thing ever lost.” Or, as another wise sage remarked, “Don’t forget to wind the clock, as tomorrow is another day.”

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