Re: ‘Spider lake still paddle only,’ (The NEWS, Oct. 6).
Spider Lake restrictions are not a dead issue. The information that I presented to the Regional District of Nanaimo board was based on clear, concise facts and the truth.
There simply is no scientific evidence to support any environmental pressures using an electric motor. Information from the other 34 lakes that permit electric motors clearly supports that there was no increase in boats. The only conclusion one can draw from all of this is that this restriction is for social purposes. As one Spider Lake resident stated: “we don’t want them on our lake.”
It was disturbing to read that the RDN board chair Bill Veenhof, who in my opinion should remain neutral, stated: “we have solved this.” Transport Canada has reached out to the RDN on multiple occasions with no reply. Here we have Veenhof telling us they have solved it. He knows the RDN has no documents to support any such conclusion. It is difficult if not impossible to find anyone from the RDN that was around when this restriction originated in 1975.
I put it to your readers that the RDN has conveniently lost these very important documents. Or, perhaps they never existed. Your readers have to ask how could the RDN lose such extremely important documents that ushered in new law. As for Geoff Garbut, RDN manager of strategic and community development, his comments on consultation in 1975 are wrong, in my opinion. Consultation has always been a part of any restriction on all bodies of water in Canada and even more important today.
With all due respect, none of these fine RDN board members have any understanding of what happened, how it happened or what is required to put in a restriction on a lake in 1975 or in 2016.
Finally the board did not make any motions to take any action, to refer or defer. This leaves me to believe that the issue of restrictions is still an open subject.
I will continue to use my electric motor until we have supporting documentation that supports Veenhof. The local RCMP have advised me they cannot lay any charges without any proof that would be required in court. Spider Lake is a public body of water open to all residents.
Just because Transport Canada says something does not necessarily mean it is correct. They have been unable to provide me with any documentation even though I applied for this through the Freedom of Information Act. So the mystery of Spider Lake continues unabated.
Joe DennieQualicum Beach
