On November 9, BCWF met with the assistant deputy minister and executive staff of the Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development.
In attendance were:
David Muter, Assistant Deputy Minister, FLNRORD
Laura Plante, Executive Director, Natural Resources, Resource Stewardship Division, FLNRORD
Jennifer Psyllakis, Director, Wildlife and Habitat, FLNRORD
Gerry Paille, Wildlife Allocations Committee Chair
Rob Chipman, Chair, BCWF Indigenous Relations Committee (not shown)
Tina Coleman, Director, Corporate Operations, BCWF (not shown)
The purpose of the meeting was to communicate BCWF’s support of the government in taking a leadership position in protecting public land access. BCWF is seeking to participate in a solution that works in the best interest of all British Columbians and will continue to hold the government accountable for representing all stakeholders when it comes to access issues and restrictions. Both parties agreed that a long-term plan is required, taking into consideration that the reconciliation of Aboriginal Rights is evolving.
It was also agreed that all stakeholders should be able to cooperate and collaborate when it comes to conservation. The Northern Wildlife Roundtable, Moose Solutions Roundtable and the Prescribed Fire Task Team were provided as examples of solutions that benefit wildlife and all land users.
With this in mind, all agreed that regular meetings would be scheduled once the cabinet is in place to keep the lines of communication open and address issues or concerns in a timely manner.