Olsen: B.C. chefs’ call for end to open net-pen salmon farming demonstrates economic, cultural imperative to act
VICTORIA, B.C. – Adam Olsen, B.C. Green Party MLA for Saanich North and the Islands and spokesperson for wild salmon, issued the following statement of support for the group of local chefs calling for an end to open net-pen wild salmon farming. A letter signed by over 50 chefs was sent to Forests, Lands, Natural Resources Operations and Rural Development Minister Donaldson and Agriculture Minister Popham calling for the end to open pen-net fish farms in the Broughton Archipelago, whose tenures are up for renewal this spring.
“Wild salmon are of irreplaceable economic and cultural importance to our province,” said Olsen.
B.C. Green Caucus responds to government’s speculation tax changes
VICTORIA, B.C. – Andrew Weaver, leader of the B.C. Green Party, issued the following statement in response to the government’s announced changes to the speculation tax.
“It’s a positive sign that this government is willing to listen to British Columbians and to make adjustments to policies,” said Weaver.
B.C. Green Caucus releases letter to LNG Canada clarifying position on government’s LNG approach
VICTORIA, B.C. – The B.C. Green Caucus released a letter sent to LNG Canada clarifying the Caucus’ position on the government’s proposed LNG regulations. The letter, sent on Monday March 19, came after the Caucus was was made aware of the the details of the government’s proposed LNG regime. The letter is intended to give industry maximum clarity, as the minority government requires the B.C. Green Caucus’ votes for general stability and to pass legislation.
“There are significant opportunities to grow B.C.’s economy while meeting our climate targets,” said Andrew Weaver, leader of the B.C. Green Party. “For instance, the supercluster funding announced last month is expected to generate 50,000 jobs and $15 billion in economic activity in B.C. in the next 10 years. Future development must fit within our climate targets, and the numbers on LNG simply don’t add up.”
Olsen says petition highlights need to address speculative activity on ALR land due to cannabis legalization uncertainty
VICTORIA, B.C. – B.C. Green Party MLA and spokesperson for agriculture Adam Olsen introduced a petition from his constituents in Saanich North and the Islands regarding concerns that a large scale cannabis facility is compromising agricultural lands.
“This petition underscores the need for government to address increased speculation on ALR land due to cannabis legalization,” said Olsen.
Weaver introduces private members bills to protect and acknowledge diverse gender identities
VICTORIA, B.C. – Andrew Weaver, leader of the B.C. Green Party, introduced two private members bills to that would further the rights of British Columbians with diverse gender identity and expression. The bills are amendments to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Amendment Act (FIPPA) and the Personal Information Protection Amendment Act (PIPA).
“Personal information such as sexual orientation, race, ethnicity and religious affiliation is already protected under FIPPA, in 2018 we should absolutely include gender identity and expression,” said Weaver.