Children’s advocate needs leadership spot
Listening to all the candidates running for the provincial Liberal leadership, I and many others are wondering why all their grand and “new” ideas now coming forth were not implemented when they had the opportunity to do so as ministers.
The only bright light that I can see on the political horizon and one who would make an excellent leader is Mary Ellen Turpel-Lafond, the representative and strong voice for the children and youth of this province. Both Mary Ellen and retired judge Ted Hughes, it seems, are constantly being rebuked by the present government for their ideas that they feel are critically needed for the children and youth of this province.
Turpel-Lafond has strong leadership qualities and would bring a refreshing perspective to government. With her extensive credentials in both judicial and academic backgrounds, she is beyond reproach. She is honest and straightforward. Why none of the political parties is touting her to run under their banner for leadership is beyond comprehension.
Martin L. Battle
Victoria
DFO halibut policy democracy for the few
I continue to be absolutely astonished at Fisheries Minister Gail Shea’s refusal to alter the absurd allocation of the annual Canadian halibut catch between the commercial and recreational sectors (88 per cent commercial, 12 per cent recreational) given the vocal feedback she’s received from the recreational sector in recent months. This re-affirmation of a fatally flawed policy will put businesses at risk that contribute heavily to the economy of B.C. The resorts our company operates will be among these.
The facts show the minister’s policy really acts to protect the small (just over 400) group of halibut quota holders that were gifted halibut quota several years back. Many of these folks don’t fish anymore and make serious money selling their quota to hardworking fishermen who are squeezed in the middle.
Despite strong halibut stocks and despite the thousands of people who recently expressed their wish to see DFO change its halibut allocation policy, the rights of quota holders have been upheld. It’s hardly a demonstration of democratic principles in action. Chalk one up for the lobby efforts of the quota holders.
Lanny Sawchuk
Oak Bay Marine Group
Hold referendum on amalgamation
Now that we are committed to holding a province-wide referendum on the HST, this might give us a one-time chance to hold a simultaneous mini referendum on whether or not the residents of the Capital Region are in favour of amalgamation to form a functional regional government with all the administrative powers it would have.
Such a regional government would provide the means to solve such vexing problems as financing the replacement of the Blue Bridge, the Colwood crawl and light rail transit to the western communities, among other issues.
It is self-evident the provincial government and numerous individual municipal governments do not have the moral courage to bite the bullet. It is possible that holding a purely local referendum would give an accurate reading of the public’s mind on the matter.
David B. Buchanan
Saanich
