To the editor:
In recent months, British Columbia’s leadership has come into question and so has the credibility of many trusted officials.
Case in point being the substantial number of scheduled recalls.
This money-back guarantee on MLAs is hopefully just a passing fad, as the consequences of said actions are costly monetarily, and also render entire communities in utter chaos. A vote of non-confidence should only be used in dire circumstances and our local political situation hardly qualifies.
A local MLA who has really stepped up to bat for our beautiful South Cariboo is just one of these elected officials who have been getting a bad rap. This MLA has gone the extra mile or two on our behalf, and we should be thankful to have an ear that listens, and mind that’s capable of conveying the South Cariboo’s voice to Victoria.
I have had the pleasure of dealing with this official on numerous occasions, and a politician who listens to, and reacts on behalf of the average Joe, is worth their weight in gold. Of course, this official is the honourable [Cariboo-Chilcotin] Donna Barnett.
Her value to our rural collage of communities has benefited all who choose to live in B.C.’s “Heartland.” Without Donna’s dedication to addressing the Cariboo’s devastating pine beetle infestation, Victoria had no choice but to listen and make changes.
Her terms as mayor for 100 Mile House speak for themselves and her rise to lead at the provincial level was no surprise to most. Her chairing the Regional Economic Development Committee has done wonders for the employment stats for our region.
Of course, the Cariboo has struggled economically, but this pandemic is not just localized to our region with no need for finding a convenient scapegoat.
There have been issues arising that need addressing from the provincial government and Donna has lent her hand repeatedly to try alleviating any concerns we have. She has especially been on the side of our local volunteer fire departments, which always seem to struggle with funding.
Thanks to Donna’s input, more funds from BCLC are trickling down to where they are desperately needed.
Donna’s commitment to the South Cariboo is obvious to all who have had the pleasure of dealing with her or have taken the time to ask for her help, and for that, we are greatly indebted. There is no point to jumping ship in mid-voyage, especially when only the rudder needs repairing.
Ken Gisby, chief
Greeny Lake Volunteer
Fire Department
