Every Second Thursday & Online ‘24/7’ at islandtides.com Unitingg Isllannds Arrouund TThee Salish Sea — BBig aandd Smalll Canadian Publications Mail Product Volume 22 Number 20 October 28-November 10, 2010 $2 at Selected Retailers Sales Agreement Nº 40020421

Photo: Terrill Welch Low-lying fog fills Active Pass between Mayne and Galiano Islands. This is the route of Southern ferries and of Main Route ferries (between Swartz Bay and Tsawwassen). Flocks of birds fish the waters. Basi and Virk plead guilty in deal Carbon credits contribute to novel On the morning of Monday, October 18, just examples, but not a complete list, of Denman land deal before the court was to resume hearing documents seized by the RCMP during a A complicated land swap involving North grow’— essentially, sustainable without witnesses in the BC Rail corruption trial, raid on the offices of Pilothouse Public Denman Lands Ltd (NDL), the BC nurturing. court was told that David Basi and Bobby Affairs Corporation, described as a lobbying provincial government, and ERA Ecosystem ERA have purchased the carbon credits Virk had agreed to a ‘Statement of Facts’ in firm representing bidder Omnitrax. It also Restoration Associates Inc will leave for the land for $1.23 million; later, with which they admitted guilt with respect to the included examples, but not a complete list, Denman Island with 750 hectares of new third party certification and auditing under breach of trust charges in the original of confidential documents found by the protected area and NDL with development ISO standard 14064-2, the credits will be indictment. RCMP at the home or office of Bruce Clark, potential for up to 13 farms and 40 sold as European voluntary carbon offsets Associate Chief Justice Anne MacKenzie a consultant to the Washington Marine residential lots, all without exceeding the to Forest Carbon Group of Darmstadt, immediately accepted a joint submission by Group. Island’s overall density cap. Germany. the prosecution and the defence regarding The Statement included the following The deal is unique in that it is the first of The carbon credit payment is an essential sentencing. assertions: its kind to use carbon credits as part component of the deal. NDL are selling the • that on October 13 (while the case was The ‘Statement of Facts’ payment. 492 hectares (valued at $6.7 million) to the adjourned to allow Berardino to shorten the The ‘Statement of Facts’ was signed by the The new protected area, 15% of Denman province. NDL have cut the price by $1.4 list of Crown witnesses), David Basi had accused, their lawyers (Messrs Bolton and Island, is made up of 258 hectares of former million, and will receive the transfer of advised the Crown that his brother Aneal McCullough), and the Special Prosecutor Crown land and 492 hectares of former development rights (valued at $3.9 million) Basi had no knowledge of why Bornman (of (Mr Berardino). Basi and Virk admitted to NDL land. Its reforestation will be managed from the Crown land to other NDL lands Pilothouse) was paying him $25,695. having shared ‘confidential information’ by ERA to restore an ecosystem appropriate and $232,000 in cash. ERA’s $1.23 million • that Basi had set up a dinner meeting, with bidders in the BC Rail auction process, to its Coastal Douglas Fir biogeoclimatic makes up the difference. to occur after it was announced that CN had in return for personal benefits. zone. ERA’s management will continue The ‘Statement of Facts’ also included BASI & VIRK, please turn to page 3 until the restored ecosystem is ‘free to DENMAN DEAL, please turn to page 7 ’Round! ’Round! ’Round!—We Get Around! Hello Winlaw! reetings to Winlaw readers who are receiving Island Tides in their mailbox this edition. Please read Nelle Maxey’s letter on the GWater Act Modernisation, page 4. If you would like to read further editions of Island Tides you can do so at www.islandtides.com .

is available at these SERIOUS COFFEE locations — look for the ‘Island Tides’ yellow boxes or racks inside! Sidney —Beacon Avenue Mill Bay —Island Highway @ Frayne Rd Parksville —Heritage Centre Mall Nanaimo —Hammond Bay Rd South Duncan— Sun Valley Mall Courtenay —Southgate Centre, Cliffe Ave Nanaimo —South Parkway Plaza Duncan —Cowichan Commons Mall Port Alberni —Shoppers Drugmart Plaza, 10th Ave Nanaimo —V I Conference Centre good reading, great coffee — it’s time to get SERIOUS! Campbell River —Island Highway @ Village Willow Point Page 2, ISLAND TIDES, Oct 28 2010

        

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AT POINT ATKINSON OCTOBER/NOVEMBER Day Time Ht./ft. Ht./m. Day Time Ht./ft. Ht./m. 0130 3.0 0.9 0404 13.8 4.2 27 0908 14.8 4.5 4 0924 8.9 2.7 WE 1427 11.5 3.5 TH 1504 15.1 4.6 1840 12.8 3.9 2207 2.6 0.8 0214 3.0 0.9 0503 14.4 4.4 28 1001 14.8 4.5 5 1019 9.8 3.0 TH 1538 11.5 3.5 FR 1540 15.1 4.6 1926 12.5 3.8 2248 1.6 0.5 0304 3.6 1.1 0557 15.1 4.6 29 1055 14.8 4.5 6 1111 10.2 3.1 FR 1704 10.8 3.3 SA 1617 14.8 4.5 2035 11.8 3.6 2330 1.3 0.4 0401 4.3 1.3 0648 15.4 4.7 30 1147 14.8 4.5 7 1203 10.8 3.3 SA 1821 10.2 3.1 SU 1656 14.4 4.4 2213 11.2 3.4 0505 5.2 1.6 0012 1.3 0.4 31 1234 14.8 4.5 8 0737 15.7 4.8 SU 1918 8.9 2.7 MO 1257 11.2 3.4 1735 13.8 4.2 0001 11.2 3.4 0054 1.6 0.5 1 0613 5.9 1.8 9 0826 15.7 4.8 MO 1315 15.1 4.6 TU 1356 11.2 3.4 2004 7.2 2.2 1816 13.1 4.0 0139 11.8 3.6 0136 2.3 0.7 2 0722 6.9 2.1 10 0915 15.4 4.7 Photo Derek Holzapfel TU 1352 15.1 4.6 WE 1504 11.2 3.4 2046 5.6 1.7 1858 12.5 3.8 Hallowe’en, the only evening you will get an intimidating greeting at an Island home. 0258 12.5 3.8 0219 3.3 1.0 3 0826 7.9 2.4 11 1004 15.4 4.7 WE 1428 15.1 4.6 TH 1622 10.8 3.3 2127 3.9 1.2 1948 11.5 3.5 The gold rush returns—this time it’s the water ADD ONE HOUR FOR DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME In as elsewhere, water is fundamental to Crown and First Nations recognize the land, water, air, and the environment, human life and society, and the economy. in fact the entire environment as a ‘commons’ belonging to In this province, its allocation is governed by the Water Act , the people. legislation which had its roots in the pressing need to According to the Water Act , ‘The property in and the quickly settle disputes between placer miners in the gold right to the use and flow of all the water at any time in a rush. stream in British Columbia are for all purposes vested in the AT FULFORD HARBOUR Surface water claims were settled like mineral claims—a government, except only in so far as private rights have been OCTOBER/NOVEMBER system known as ‘first in time, first in right’ (over the years, established under licences issued or approvals given under Day Time Ht./ft. Ht./m. Day Time Ht./ft. Ht./m. this has been abbreviated to the commonly used term this or a former Act .’ The government claims to be the 0044 1.6 0.5 0356 9.5 2.9 ‘FITFIR’) and this principle is still in use today. Water rights ‘owner’ of the water, but this may be a misinterpretation of 27 0918 10.8 3.3 4 0830 7.2 2.2 are still granted in perpetuity to users ranging from the term ‘vested’. It’s only the Crown that has the power to WE 1417 9.5 2.9 TH 1418 10.8 3.3 1722 9.8 3.0 2125 2.0 0.6 households through farms and ranches to mines, municipal ‘vest’. (See Editorial, page 4, see also Nelle Maxey letter 0130 2.0 0.6 0459 10.5 3.2 water systems, industrial plants and so on—the latest being beginning bottom of page 4.) 28 1011 10.8 3.3 5 0926 8.2 2.5 TH 1555 9.2 2.8 FR 1447 10.8 3.3 Independent Power Producers, whose licences are limited Alienation and Allocation of Water 1755 9.2 2.8 2203 1.0 0.3 to 40 years. Since water is owned by the Crown, not the government, its 0222 2.3 0.7 0555 10.8 3.3 The Act also includes a provision which would permit its ownership cannot be transferred as if it were a commodity. 29 1100 10.8 3.3 6 1023 8.5 2.6 FR 1738 8.9 2.7 SA 1519 10.8 3.3 application to groundwater in the province, but this has However, the government may allocate or license its use. In 1852 8.9 2.7 2242 0.7 0.2 never been enacted. BC, there are over 44,000 water licenses authorizing the 0319 3.0 0.9 0647 11.5 3.5 The provincial government is in the process of making diversion, use, or storage of water; about 52% of licenses are 30 1145 10.8 3.3 7 1123 9.2 2.8 SA 1830 7.9 2.4 SU 1553 10.8 3.3 changes to the governance of water in BC, an exercise for domestic use, 35% for agriculture; licensees pay an 2048 8.2 2.5 2324 0.7 0.2 known as Water Act Modernization, or WAM. This poorly annual fee. These licenses have been issued under FITFIR; 0421 3.6 1.1 0738 11.5 3.5 publicized activity has proceeded to the point where revised 31 1223 10.8 3.3 8 1228 9.2 2.8 the government has indicated that it now seeks greater SU 1906 6.9 2.1 MO 1630 10.5 3.2 legislation is to be proposed, but has not yet been published. ‘flexibility and efficiency’ in the allocation of water. Among 2304 7.9 2.4 Water Is A Commons the reasons given for this are climate change, priorities in 0527 4.3 1.3 0007 1.0 0.3 1 1256 10.8 3.3 9 0829 11.5 3.5 All land and water in the province starts out as the property times of scarcity, conflicts between uses, and ecosystem MO 1940 5.6 1.7 TU 1341 9.2 2.8 of the Crown, subject to the extent and nature of any claims protection. 1707 9.8 3.0 made by First Nations and agreed by the Crown. Both the 0106 8.2 2.5 0050 1.3 0.4 WATER ACT MODERNIZATION , please turn to page 6 2 0632 5.2 1.6 10 0918 11.5 3.5 TU 1325 10.8 3.3 WE 1505 9.2 2.8 2013 4.3 1.3 1744 9.2 2.8 0241 8.9 2.7 0135 2.3 0.7 3 0733 6.2 1.9 11 1005 11.5 3.5 WE 1352 10.8 3.3 TH 1636 8.5 2.6 2048 3.0 0.9 1823 8.5 2.6 A Truly Island Home ADD ONE HOUR FOR DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME Tide Table Courtesy of Durable dock systems for Build your Dream • Build it Green exposed locations Ross Walker • Prefab custom home packages • Qualified builders available • Visit one of our island show homes • Off grid options 250-537-9710 On Time & On Budget Email: [email protected] 866-352-5503 www.mandalahomes.com [email protected] www.islandmarine.ca Raven coal mine prospects downgraded, ISLAND TIDES, Oct 28, 2010, Page 3 criticized A new technical report, released by consultants to evaluate the potential of the Compliance Coal Corporation on October Raven mine, but Hughes has criticized that 14, has revealed that the quality of the coal evaluation, saying, ‘13.2 million tonnes of that can be extracted from the proposed saleable coal calculated in the latest Raven mine near Fanny Bay is not as good Compliance pre-feasibility report, even as was originally estimated, the quantity though it is a drastic reduction from its less, and the amount of mine waste earlier estimates, is still an overestimate due increased. to ... the inclusion of resources in seams Three years ago, Compliance estimated between 1 and 1.5 metres thick in tonnage that the company could extract about 30 calculations in contravention of National million tones of high-grade metallurgical Instrument 43-101 in its mine plan.’ coal from the Comox Joint Venture site over Hughes goes on to write that four a period of about 20 years. The new figures factors—structural complexity of the are 13 million tones of metallurgical coal deposit, mining method, higher waste over 16 years, resulting in larger percentages volumes and the mine proponents’ lack of of lower grade thermal coal, and potentially corporate experience with coal—‘combine toxic waste. The amount of saleable coal, to question the recoverable resources on both metallurgical and thermal, is now only which the mining proposal is based and the 44% of the total mined. potential viability of the mine over its Energy critic Arthur Caldicott points out proposed life.’ that the new figures represent a significant Herbert Sullivan, who wrote his PhD on downgrade from the 2007 estimates of the chemistry and petrography of coals, has possible production from the proposed made a separate submission to CEAA which Raven mine. According to Caldicott, ‘The also raises questions about the feasibility of mine life is going to be shorter, the amount the mine. of material coming out of the mine is ‘The coals of the Raven area have a high reduced and the amount of marketable sulphur and ash content ... by industry product will be much less.’ standards it is a dirty coal,’ wrote Sullivan, Since the publication of the latest ‘The volume of non-coaly sediment technical report, two well-known geologists extracted from the mine and dumped at the have made a submission to the Canadian surface will greatly exceed the predictions Environmental Assessment Agency that is contained in the reports submitted by highly critical of Compliance’s figures. Compliance Coal Corporation,’ he continued. David Hughes, in his 32 years with the ‘The surface accumulations will be high Photo Dennis Forsyth Geological Survey of Canada as a scientist in sulphur and acid-producing minerals and Zero miles (except for the migration). Goldfinch enjoys a sunflower feast. and research manager, developed the have the potential to create the dual risk of National Coal Inventory to determine the spontaneous combustion and a run-off of Similar questions have been raised by Compliance have indicated that their availability and environmental constraints toxic compounds infiltrating the soils and CoalWatch president John planned shipping method is by truck to Port associated with Canada’s coal resources. watercourses of the area. Snyder. Local residents have also Alberni and by bulk carrier to Asia. Port He is one of the authors of a set of ‘The contaminated waters laden with questioned the effect of the mine on Alberni residents have questioned the standards known as National Instrument heavy metals will eventually drain into groundwater and have called for effects of trucking, coal dust resulting from 43-101, used by securities regulators across and pose a lethal threat to the comprehensive aquifer mapping as part of ship loading, and the effects of the harbour Canada to assess mining properties. This is shellfish aquaculture that currently thrives a more detailed feasibility study. dredging anticipated by Compliance. 0 the standard used by Compliance’s in the bay.’

BASI & VIRK from page 1 won the BC Rail bid, between Dwight sentences of house arrest, with conditions, Johnson and Pat Broe of Omnitrax and of two years less a day; Fianance Minister Gary Collins, at which • both are required to carry out 150 hours Collins would offer Omnitrax a ‘consolation of community service; prize’ as a reward for their participation in • are not required to reimburse the the bid. provincial government for an estimated $6 Ferry Advisory Committee Meetings • that at no time did Collins offer million in legal costs already paid for their Denman-Hornby Campbell River-Quadra-Cortes Omnitrax a ‘consolation prize’. defence (it is government policy to pay legal • that Basi and Virk had carried out these costs for the defence of employees carrying Monday, November 8, 2010 Tuesday, November 9, 2010 disclosures ‘without the knowledge or out their duties; if they are found guilty, the 10:30 a.m. – 1:15 p.m. 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. consent of BC Rail or the Evaluation government indicated that it would usually Denman Seniors Hall Heriot Bay Inn Committee.’ attempt to recover these costs, but Attorney 1111 Northwest Road Quadra Island, BC • that ‘Basi and Virk did not obtain the General Mike de Jong indicated that it Denman Island, BC consent of their superiors to demand or would not try to recover costs in this case); Members of the public are welcome to attend the meeting. accept these personal benefits’. • David Basi is required to pay $75,295 If you have any questions or concerns you wish to raise with the committee or with BC Ferries, please The trial had not progressed to the point in fines, being equal to the benefits he contact the chair of the Ferry Advisory Committee in advance of the meeting . where these last three statements could be received from Bornman plus $50,000 he Minutes of committee meetings are available on BC Ferries’ website: www.bcferries.com . confirmed by other witnesses. It was received from a development company previously thought that former minister seeking to remove land from the Gary Collins might be next to testify. Agricultural Land Reserve (an unrelated For more information please contact: Sentencing case); and Tony Law, Chair Paul Ryan, Chair Darin Guenette, In consequence of their guilty pleas, the Basi • Aneal Basi had charges of money Denman-Hornby Ferry Campbell River-Quadra- Public Affairs Manager cousins and Virk: laundering stayed. Advisory Committee: Coretes Ferry Advisory BC Ferries Phone (250) 335-1155 Committee: Phone (250) 978-2385 or • had all fraud charges dropped; these The trial was scheduled to continue well Phone (604) 285-3896 [email protected] concerned alleged representations by the into the spring of next year, and its sudden accused that they could influence the bid ending has left many questions process; unanswered. (See also see Robin Mathews’ • Davis Basi and Bobby Virk received commentary article, page 7) 0

NANAIMO We’re all about the Islands (Departure Bay) • Eight scheduled flights daily • Newest and fastest Seaplane fleet in Canada For scheduled flight info call VANCOUVER • Departure from Seair Terminal at INT’L AIRPORT Vancouver Int’l Airport 1-800-447-3247 • Free Parking and Free shuttle to Main Terminal • Frequent flyer discounts or visit our website at SEAPLANESSEAPLANES • Charter flights available to other destinations seairseaplanes.com Our Islands. Our World. Page 4, ISLAND TIDES, Oct 28, 2010 Editorial: The Crown And The Government anadians are occasionally made aware that the property of the Crown, with authority vested in Crown is not the government. In the United governments, predominantly provincial, to regulate and CKingdom, where the Queen is easily distinguished allocate their use. This vesting is authorized and recorded from the Prime Minister, this difference may be slightly through legislation, with Crown assent. 19,750 copies this edition better understood. But the Crown is not the Queen, either. Thus it is that government does not have actual Every Second Thursday The Crown, in fact, is a symbol of sovereignty; in a ownership of the land, the environment, and its resources. constitutional monarchy, the Crown symbolizes the It is in fact a steward of the land on behalf of the Crown, STRAIT Of GEORGIA’S ONLY FREE & sovereignty of the people. Thus it is that when the Prime which, as we have said above, is the symbol of the MAIL DELIVERY NEWSPAPER Minister wishes to prorogue Parliament, he must seek the sovereignty of the people. authority of the Crown, represented in Canada by the Some governments find it difficult to differentiate Governor-General, and similarly in each province by the stewardship from ownership, for many of the Lieutenant-Governor. responsibilities and policies are, quite appropriately, 14,300 print copies delivered to Governments do not inherently possess the authority to identical. Owners might expect, and be expected, to act in govern. They govern by the authority vested in them by the their own interest. But government, in carrying out S. & N. Gulf Islands’ households Crown. The authority is, in fact, temporary, and exists only stewardship responsibilities, must act in the interests of the during their term of office; the Queen rules only during her public. lifetime; only the Crown is perpetual. Different governments have different ideas of what these And therein lies its power, its value, its honour, and its may be, but in making commitments and licensing resource authority. It may appear to be an abstraction, a metaphor, uses which outlast its term, every government must be able a symbol. But the permanent Crown, or its equivalent, is a to make the case that what they do will continue to be in the 3,700 print copies on the Ferry Routes and logical necessity for any form of constitutional government. public interest over a long period of time. in Victoria, Sidney, Mill Bay, Duncan, Taxes Thus it is appropriate that environmental and resource Chemainus, Ladysmith, Nanaimo, Taxes are collected in the name of the Crown. The Crown’s allocation legislation, with its longer term effects, must assent to taxation legislation, expressing the sovereignty of balance certainty and consistency of application with a Bowser, Campbell River & Port Alberni responsiveness to the longer term evolution of the public 1,750 online pdf readers each edition the people, is predicated on the government’s ability to pass the legislation in Parliament, or in a provincial legislature. interest. www.islandtides.com Thus the importance of the link between the Parliamentary The political and economic fashions of the moment may ISLAND TIDES PUBLISHING Ltd vote of confidence and ‘no taxation without representation’. not always meet this standard. Nevertheless, the results of these decisions are permanently marked upon the natural, Box 55, , BC, V0N 2M0 Justice Justice is dispensed in the name of the Crown. The officers social, and economic landscape. They are the footprints of Owner, Publisher & Editor: Christa Grace-Warrick of the Court, which include the judges and the lawyers, both history, good or bad. Assistant Publisher: Jill Moran for the prosecution and the defence, are officers of the honour and responsibility Contributors: Patrick Brown, Priscilla Ewbank, Elizabeth May Crown, not of the government. Laws, though they may have The honour of the Crown, so often invoked in questioning Susan Banjavich, Henny Schnare, Derek Holzapfel, Peter been carried by majority vote in Parliament or a provincial the integrity of governments’ dealings with First Nations, is Lamb, Terrill Welch, Anita McCamley, Robin Mathews, Emily legislature, are not enacted until they receive Crown assent. no less a consideration for all the legislative and Menzies, Dennis Forsyth, Brian Crumblehulme, Sara Miles Some governments cannot distinguish clearly between administrative actions of government. That honour is Pat McLaughlin, Toby Snelgrove, Tana Silverland their political interests, in successful prosecutions, and their crucially bound up with the Crown’s responsibility for the Tel: 250-629-3660 • Fax: 250-629-3838 responsibility to the Crown, in ensuring the prevalence of public interest, most particularly in the long term. The vesting of power by the Crown in any government is Email:[email protected] & [email protected] justice. They are well on their way to fascism. Environment and resources accompanied by a vesting of responsibility; that government Deadline: Wednesday Between Publications 0 The land, waters, and resources of the nation are the is responsible to the sovereignty of the people. Off-Island Canadian Print Subscription $44.80 Voluntary Mail & Box Pick-up Subscription $28.00 International Subs: $60.00 • Free online in PDF format Readers’ Letters

Gunfire On Galiano noise levels and I expect these levels to be preserved. Water Act ‘Modernization’ The following two letters were sent to the I reside almost one kilometer from the gun club and the A version of the following letter was submitted to the Water and/or to Southern Gulf Islands CRD director. typical firearm that is discharged results in a noise which Act Modernization (WAM) public comment process. Dear Trustees: startles, distracts and interferes with normal conversation. Dear Editor: As part of your review of land use by-laws, I believe it is time This is happening daily. The event held on the weekend of The entire WAM concept is a non-solution to a real to re-assess the wisdom of including the target ranges October 2-3, gave rise to the bombardment of thousands of problem. After years and years of mismanagement of our among the permitted uses of R3 zoned land on Galiano rounds being discharged, predominately from automatic water supplies through removal of any watershed Island. weapons. protection, BC’s Ministry of Environment (MoE) is now There might have been a time when such a use was I can no longer tolerate this inconsiderate and positing that ‘we’ are the problem and must therefore fight appropriate in a sparsely settled, rural community to meet irresponsible behavior. It is unnecessary noise which is with each other over remaining supplies while it continues local, on-island needs and demands. The Island has annoying, disturbing and endangers the comfort, repose, to refuse to protect watersheds, and seeks changes that will certainly evolved since the land use was established, health, peace and safety of myself and hundreds of other remove our already degraded water rights. becoming much more residential as the Island population residents within earshot of this gun range. Therefore I respectfully request that MoE do nothing. has grown. There are few, if any, locations on Galiano where Since when did any municipality allow shooting in a rural That is, you do not re-write the Water Act, and maintain the the establishment of target ranges on R3 zoned-lands will residential zoned area? This is incompatible land use at its status quo governance model, until MoE has addressed not have an adverse impact on the surrounding area. worst. Our quality of life is deplorable and property values eight public concerns which I describe below: As the Island has evolved, so too have the uses of target are negatively impacted. 1) W ATErShEd PrOTECTION FrOM rESOurCE ranges and the types of small arms used. Where we once Previous complaints and attempts to have this matter ExTrACTION ACTIvITIES . By devolving stream protection had some tolerable occasional skeet shooting, rifle and hand dealt with have been ineffectual. (stream as defined in the Water Act means all water courses gun target shooting by Islanders, we now have large I implore the Local Trust Committee, the Islands Trust including lakes, ponds, wetlands, streams, creeks, springs, numbers of off-island firearms owners, using high calibre and /or the Capital Regional District to prohibit this and rivers) in Section 9 of the Water Act to other ministries automatic and semi-automatic restricted weapons, untenable situation immediately. The precedent for this has (including Forestry and Energy and Mines), source participating in competitive shoots at the existing target been set repeatedly in communities throughout the protection of our water supplies is abrogated by the MoE. range. This change in the users and types of firearms being province. This must change! If the Water Act is meant to protect our Dave Parent, exercised demonstrates that his particular land use is no water supplies it must override all other Acts in that respect. longer appropriate on Galiano. GICEL Celebration Postponed You talk about the fragmented legislation protecting water Our Island has become the target of mass drive-by Dear Editor: at great length, but make no attempt in the WAM to address shootings. I would like to let readers know that we have had to this problem. Saddling future Galiano Island residents with such postpone Gulf Islands Centre for Ecological Learning 10th Furthermore, the MoE Water Stewardship Branch potential intrusive blight and destruction of their peace of anniversary celebration banquet with guest speaker Dr Rick makes no bones about IPPs in the form of large run-of-the- river projects when they state on page 32 of their Strategic mind and enjoyment of their rural life style should not be Kool. Instead of happening on October 22, it will be re- permitted to occur. Removing the ‘target range’ land use Plan that they intend to ‘Adjudicate licence applications for scheduled to the new year. associated with R3 zoning is a reasonable and prudent step Michael Dunn, Independent Power Producers in a manner that is towards preserving the natural environment of Galiano consistent with provincial government corporate policy.’ Island. New Leader, Please As to other resource extraction activities, the MoE passed Stephen Rybak, Vancouver Dear Editor: the environmental assessment on Fish Lake being turned Gunfire II I’m sorry just who exactly is the leader of the NDP in this into a tailings pond, placing a huge water system running Dear Trustee, Trust Council and CRD Director: province? I swear it must be Bill Vander Zalm as he seems all the way to the ocean at risk of serious toxic Because of the intolerable level of noise pollution originating to be the only ‘public’ figure taking the Liberals to task over contamination. Many other mining activities, including the from the Galiano Rod and Gun Club, I can no longer live their totalitarian-esque political tactics. Carol James’ Raven Coal project on , evince the same and work at my present location with any semblance of absence from the front lines of the recent political landscape unconcern with contamination of watersheds and river normality. My mental and physical health has dictated however, has been who actually has a chance to win the next systems with toxic effluent. Shame on you, MoE! otherwise. election! Please. Then we have the oil and gas extraction activities in the Jeff Leggat,Duncan Rural areas such as Galiano have very low background LETTERS, please turn to page 11 Vancouver Island & The Gulf Islands ISLAND TIDES, Oct 28, 2010, Page 5 SINGLE EVENT • $31.50 • With image $36.75 (max 45 words) ~ Priscilla Ewbank MULTI-VENUE • $42 • With image $47.25 (max 70 words) Saturna Notes ‘What’s On ?’ Back! We are returned to that place named : Payment with order only. VISA & Mastercard credit card accepted the physical land that holds our home, our bed, and most Currently Showing Saturday, November 6 of our social lives. We had a real holiday this time—as much Starfish Gallery & Studio — Book signing with Elizabeth May –Saanich –Gulf Islands a state of mind than the act of vacationing. Somehow we ’Medicine Wheel’ watercolours federal candidate, author of 7 books will discuss concerns and came back energized and lighthearted—not always the by Briony Penn and landscape, hopes for the riding, Canada, and the planet with you • wildlife and still life paintings by Morningside Organic Bakery Cafe & Bookstore • 3pm • ON result from vacation time spent traveling away from home. Nicola Wheston, Tina Louise (More about the trip next edition.). Spalding and Suzanne Lee, ‘Back home’ always means catching up on the newsprint, photographers, Birgit Bateman, Sat & Sun, November 6 & 7 Island ‘buzz’ and friends, patting the dogs, weeding, time Ken Ketchum, Eric Onasick and Giant Book Sale —Salt Spring Island Community spent getting bills paid and paperwork organized, and Andrea Collins; all work is Education’s annual fundraising event; more than 10,000 unpacking—reestablishing your life and integrating sights ongoing • 1108 Grace Point Square • Info: books; most books priced $1-$3; come and stock up for winter you have seen and the new things you have collected. The www.starfishgalleryandstudio.com • ON SALT SPRING reading or gift giving • Farmers’ Institute, 351 Rainbow Rd • calendar, marked with the dates and responsibilities that ISLAND 10am-4pm • ON SALT SPRING ISLAND have slipped my mind in the interval of travel, is a great help. Friday, October 29 Friday thru Sunday, Nov 12 to 14 Coming home, at the check-out counter of the General Pender Film Group Screenings —Micmacs (2009)—a 33rd Annual Creative Craft Fairs —over 150 professional Store, I noticed a get-well card set out for the Community man and his friends come up with an intricate and original exhibitors; gourmet food, stain glass, jewellery, woodwork, fine to sign if they wished. It was for our creative and dynamic plan to destroy two big weapons manufacturers; from Jean- art, photography, clothing, imports; continuous draw prizes, school teacher for the last 5 years, Steve Dunsmuir. Steve Pierre Jeunet, director of Amelie • Community Hall • 7:30pm free live demonstrations • Pearkes Centre (behind Tillicum and Laura and their kids Natalie and Emily moved to Salt unless otherwise noted • Admission by donation • Info: Mall) • Fri: 10am-8pm; Sat: 10am-5:30pm; Sun: 10am- www.penderislands.org • ON PENDER ISLAND Spring this fall partially so that the District Ecological 4:30pm • Admission $5 per day; $5.50 for all 3 days • IN Education Centre that was started and based, on Saturna Friday to Sunday, November 5 to 7 VICTORIA Island, could have a broader base of kids. 21st Annual Nanaimo Professional Craft Fair — Sunday, November 14 Steve, who loves to hike, was climbing Mount Maxwell something for everyone, Pancake Breakfast —Pender Islands Lions Club hosts its with the kids and fell, luckily catching himself on a ledge. hourly door prizes, and annual event to commemorate Remembrance Day and as a The rock ledge ‘hamburgered’ a lower leg muscle and bone. grand prize of a Nintendo fundraiser for the Medical Clinic; thanks to Dave Dryer, Steve will be in the great outdoors on crutches for awhile Wii entertainment system, Dianne and Jason for their generosity, hospitality and kitchen after his hospital stay. For an active person dealing with wheelchair accessible, expertise • 8-10am • Memories Restaurant • Adults $10, kids recovery from injury and the slow pace of healing this could refreshments available • $5 • ON PENDER ISLAND Beban Park Social Centre, be a whole new learning experience. Just like the students, 23oo Bowen Rd • FrI : 12- Wednesday November 17 Steve will be actively learning—a basic premise of the 8pm; SAT : 10am-5pm; SuN : restorative Justice Presentation —the parents of ecological education centre! 10am-4pm • Admission $4 (unlimited re-entry) • Info: 250- murdered teen Reena Virk will share their story of grief, Teaching Learning Bands 758-6545 or [email protected] • IN NANAIMO healing and forgiveness • 7:30pm • Pender Islands Community On Saturna, we notice small bands of purposeful wandering Hall • Admission by donation • ON PENDER ISLAND Fri thru Thur, November 5 to 11 visitors. I am always delighted when our vibrant, gorgeous Island is used for teaching purposes. Each year, part-time Salt Spring Potters Guild Biennial Exhibition —‘New Thursday, November 18 Explorations’: works in ceramic, glass and basketry, each work The Barra MacNeils —Gulf Saturna resident Judy Meyers, the tent caterpillar lady from of art is one-of-a-kind • FrI NOv 5: Opening Reception, meet Islands Concerts presents the UBC’s Department of Zoology, brings a class of biology the artists 5-8pm • Daily 10am-5pm • Artspring Island Arts popular and lively Celtic music students to Saturna. With her late husband Jamie Smith, Centre, 100 Jackson Avenue • ON SALT SPRING ISLAND group from Sydney Mines, Cape Judy used to teach a conservation biology couse. They came Breton • School Auditorium • to Saturna to ‘share the many conservation issues of the day Saturday, November 6 7:30pm • Admission: adults $25, and the wonderful environment.’ Before her retirement Celso Machado —Saturna Arts and children $5, high school students Judy co-taught the course one year with a new faculty Concert Society presents Afro-Brazilian $12 • ON PENDER ISLAND member Mark Vellend, and the field trips have continued. guitarist and composer • Community The students visit the big trees at Campbell’s farm and Hall. • Doors 7pm, concert 7:30pm • Saturday, November 20 Tickets: $25 at the door • ON A Yuletide Gift Faire —wonderful gifts, crafts and food; usually talk with the Campbells. They continue down to SATURNA ISLAND concession and lunch available; proceeds going to the Taylor Point and return along the coast. They overnight at Community Hall • Community Hall • 10am-4pm • Admission Judy’s place on Warburton Pike, visiting the stores for [email protected] • 250-629-3660 by donation • ON PENDER ISLAND supplies. The next day they stop by Haggis Farm for a discussion Commentary by Sara Miles about living in a small community, the Islands Trust and other local government, First Nations, the Agricultural Land The last word on PowerSmart month Reserve and parks. I want to pay more for electricity. I’m not as crazy as I sound. electricity than we do today—but only if we are smart about The conversation from my side is about living with large The excitement of cheap power wore off when I realized the it. conservation issues at the local level. This year’s foreign consequences. The province should raise electricity rates by We already pay more than we did last year, but it is not students (one each from Hong Kong, Chile, New Zealand, one hundred percent before spoiling our natural heritage to enough to stimulate the level of conservation that is possible Singapore, and Dubai) were fascinating as they spoke about generate even more power. It’s the only thing that will shock and desirable. BC Hydro introduced a two-step conservation in their countries compared to what they were us back to consciousness. conservation rate in April 2010, so that the first 1350kWh experiencing here in BC. Two of the group commented that British Columbia has some of the lowest electricity rates of your billing cycle costs 6.27 cents/kWh but any power they thought that theirs was the generation that had to act, in the world, which is fortunate because we waste a lot of it. you use above that amount costs 8.78 cents/kWh. It’s a good quickly and powerfully, to turn the tide of environmental According to BC Hydro, we use more electricity per capita POWERSMART, please turn to page 6 SATURNA, please turn to page 12 than other Canadians and Europeans. BC households pay about seven cents per kilowatt hour. In most of Canada and the US, it’s at least ten cents per kilowatt hour (kWh). Europeans pay 20 –40¢ /kWh. The abundance of hydroelectricity in BC makes electricity incredibly cheap. It also makes it awfully easy to turn on all the lights, crank up the heat and leave our computers running all day. We use way more than necessary, without even blinking at the bills. However, we will soon need quite a bit more electricity than we produce. BC Hydro estimates a 20-35% increase in demand over the next 20 years. They are looking at ways to meet this demand, through additional electrical generation and conservation. We have options to meet this demand, but none of them are without consequences. One way to quench our electrical appetite is to build another mega-dam on the Peace River. The $8 billion Site- C project is highly controversial, for good reason. Displacing First Nations populations, again, obliterating some of our most valuable cropland, and damming up more salmon spawning streams do not make me proud to be a British Columbian. A better way to satisfy our need for power is to conserve it. BC Hydro, in the 2007 Conservation Potential Review, found that we could return to 2007 electricity consumption AUTUMN GLORY levels by 2027 through conservation and efficiency Photo: Susan Banjavich measures. It is possible for demand to go up while using less Page 6, ISLAND TIDES, Oct 28, 2010 Fight HST recall recruitment race In only three weeks since Fight HST launched the ‘MLA Survivor Recall—Vote them off the Island’ contest, the race to see which of the 18 ridings will recruit the most volunteers for its recall canvass will go first has become red hot says Fight HST lead organizer, Chris Delaney. Delaney says as of this week there are over 2,369 recall canvassers signed up across the province with the big surprise being MLA Donna Barnett’s Cariboo-Chilcotin riding which more than doubled its number of volunteers from 77 to 158. That places them 2nd behind Oak Bay- Gordon Head MLA Ida Chong with 178 recall canvassers, and just ahead of 3rd place Kamloops North MLA Terry Lake with 146 recall canvassers. ‘When you consider the physical size of Cariboo- Chilcotin and the smaller population there, these numbers are absolutely stunning,’ said Delaney. ‘The people there are very upset with their MLA and are determined to be amoung the first to launch a recall under Fight HST.’ Delaney says no less impressive are the new numbers for recalling Boundary-Similkameen MLA John Slater at 110 canvassers and Parksville-Qualicum MLA Ron Cantelon at 115. ‘Saanich North, Boundary-Similkameen, and Parksville-Qualicum are in a virtual dead heat for 4th place right now. We also have another three way race for 5th place between Comox Valley, Vancouver-Quilchena, and Photo: Anita McCamley Chilliwack. Maple Ridge-Mission is in a strong 6th place Schools recently had their annual photo day. Mayne Islander Anita McCamley was commissioned to take photos with 75 canvassers signed. Quite frankly, any one of these at Salt Spring’s Phoenix School. While waiting to get started, she snapped a candid shot of these two. ten ridings could conduct a recall tomorrow and be successful,’ said Delaney. to meet their expectations for consultation; and similarly, Delaney says with four weeks to go in the contest there many participants in the WAM process characterized the POWERSMART from page 5 is still room for any of the other ridings to catch up and move timelines for the process as too short. idea, but not enough of a difference. We complain when into the top three. Public meetings and submissions in the consultation ‘It’s a dog fight for sure. But if the level of volunteer gasoline goes up by two or three cents but continue to drive process identified the following as fundamental to the need interest is any indication of the level of interest in recalls, it the same distances. to revise the Water Act : is going to be a very surprising new year for a number of BC BCHydro’s PowerSmart program provides information Liberal MLAs,’ said Delaney. 0 • ecosystems should be recognized as the primary water about how we can save electricity in our homes. The Team users and their protection as a priority. This will likely bring Power Smart Challenge provides incentives to residents them into conflict with industrial and economic water (and WATER ACT MODERNIZATION from page 2 who reduce their electricity use by 10%. I believe we can do land) users; WAM Process So Far better; I’m trying to cut mine in half. • clear policies are needed with respect to new major The Water Act Modernization process started in December Simply turning down the thermostat by one degree saves water uses, such as gas well fracturing and mining; 2009 with the publication of the Living Water Smart blog. 800kWh, which is about 10% of your annual use. Here in • there is a need to clarify the rules and procedures This was followed by the publication of a Discussion Paper Canada, heating is usually the biggest portion of our around the planning, allocation and governance of the and supporting Technical Background Report in February, province’s surface water resources, including incentives to electricity bills. Imagine how far down we could turn the 2010. The object of these documents were to encourage thermostat with better insulation and draft-proofing. discussion, and they were followed up with 12 one-day conserve water and use it efficiently. • governance should not be distributed among multiple Washing clothes in cold water saves another 500kWh, public workshops across the province during March and doubled by also hanging them to dry. Turn off a few more April 2010. In response, the Ministry of the Environment pieces of legislation or multiple government ministries; lights and the computer when not needed and we can save received approximately 900 written submissions, mainly • governance should also honour local decisionmaking; another 270kWh. These simple actions can reduce our from individuals but about 20% from sector groups and • water quality, particularly for domestic and food organizations. production use, is a high priority; electricity bills by 20% without affecting our lifestyles. The government now appears to be in the process of • surface water and groundwater are strongly connected, Conservation must be matched by efficiency. Compact drafting options for technical analysis and policy evaluation, yet no attempt has yet been made to regulate groundwater; fluorescent light bulbs use one-tenth the electricity of a which would form a basis for proposed legislative changes. • land use practices affect water quality, quantity, and regular bulb. Most home appliances are quite inefficient. WAM’s Stated Objectives timing of flow; and Higher electricity rates would have the desired effect of The four main goals for the WAM process have been set out • watersheds need protection from industrial activities, putting pressure on manufacturers to make products that by the government: including logging and roadbuilding. consume less energy. The Conservation Report confirms • protect stream health and aquatic environments; State of Play ‘efficient lifestyle and product choices can reduce electricity • improve water governance arrangements; The provincial government indicates that, at this point, used in the home by 50% today and potentially even more • introduce more flexibility and efficiency in the water policy development is proceeding with the aim of introducing with net zero energy homes.’ We have efficient technologies allocation system; and revised legislation at next spring’s legislative session. available to us, with more being developed every day, and • regulate ground water use in priority areas and for large However, the public consultation process, just need to use them. withdrawals. underpublicized though it may have been, has introduced Increased electricity rates should not just be a money With respect to the last objective, two of the priority areas a number of issues which the public would like to have grab, though. The funds can be used to develop additional are the Gulf Islands and southeastern Vancouver Island. adequately considered before any new governance regime conservation programs and low impact generation Emerging Issues can be assigned. It is also apparent that the public wants a technologies such as wind power, geothermal and solar. First Nations, who attach high cultural and economic value full-scale public discussion before new legislation is Every system will have an impact, but it’s important that we to water resources, commented that the process had failed introduced (First Nations also want further consultation). 0 talk about which impacts we prefer. The province mandates that BCHydro generate 66% of IS YOUR new demand through conservation by 2020. This is a clear signal that we use too much. A clearer signal—currently WELL WATER lacking—is price. SAFE TO DRINK? GULF ISLANDS WATER TREATMENT SOLUTIONS I want to pay more so that we stop wasting a precious Contamination can occur Well Water • Rain Water • Surface Water resource and realize the consequences of building large- without changes in colour or • Whole-house Treatment scale electrical generation capacity. The devastating social taste. Be safe, test annually. and environmental impacts of mega dams like Site-C are • Self-cleaning Sediment Filters not reflected in current prices. • Media Filters 250-656-1334 How much more would I pay? Double. If I am really • Ultraviolet Systems PowerSmart, I won’t even notice the difference. And if you REMOVE : are already, take comfort in the thought that you would still Iron / Odour / Bacteria / be paying much less than most people on the planet. Hardness / Arsenic For many more ways to save electricity, see fax: 250-656-0443 Website: www.mblabs.com 250-412-1110 • 604- 630-1114 • 524 William Street, Victoria www.bchydro.com/powersmart . 250-339-6914 Comox Valley Email: [email protected] Sara Miles is a student in Simon Fraser University’s 2062 Unit 4 Henry Ave. West, Sidney, B.C. V8L 5Y1 www.watertiger.net Undergraduate Semester in Dialogue. 0 DENMAN DEAL from page 1 ISLAND TIDES, Oct 28, 2010, Page 7 The carbon credits are calculated on the ago and listed on the TSX Venture Denman Island volume of carbon that will be sequestered exchange, which has a rapidly growing SANDY Protected Area Acquisitions business in the restoration of ecological ISLAND 2010 through growth on the protected land. The MARINE systems and the sale of the resulting carbon PARK Kilometres entire 750 hectares will be absorbed into the 012340.5 provincial park system, either as park or as offsets—the company claims to have created ecological reserve. Much of it is on the and sold over one million tons in its short life. It has about 35 employees, about half of Private Aquisition for Protected Area (492 ha) northern half of the Island, including land whom are in the field. Crown Land Transfers for Protected Areas (258 ha) within the Chickadee Lake watershed. The Denman Island Conservation Existing Provincial Parks (159 ha) However, some is immediately adjacent to Project is the first private sector project Other Protected Lands Boyle Point Park on the southern end (see undertaken by ERA; up to the present, the map, this page). company’s clients have been municipalities. Islands Trust Approval Typically, ERA agreements, similar to NDL, headed by Denman Island resident conservation covenants, have a 100-year Henning Neilsen, has a longtime life. commitment to land development on the Voluntary market carbon offset Island. However, a scheme proposed by agreements for international carbon markets typically reflect a commitment not NDL in 2007 for development of lands on to harvest forests which would otherwise be the north end of the Island failed to win cut down. ERA’s innovation is to create Islands Trust approval. carbon offsets from forests which might The 2010 scheme, which does not call for otherwise not have grown—hence, FILLONGLEY any increase in the overall density cap under ecosystem restoration. PARK Denman’s Official Community Plan, was Hornby FCG MOUNT approved by the Local Trust Committee, GEOFFERY The German firm, the Forest Carbon Group REGIONAL after community consultation, and with the PARK AG, invests in and co-develops large-scale Denman Island expectation that the land swap with the forestry projects world-wide. These projects province would go ahead. At that time, the not only give value to forests’ ecosystem MOUNT GEOFFERY carbon credit financing was not part of the services but also have many social co- ESCARPMENT Island PARK picture, but, in the final analysis, made the benefits that enable involved communities scheme possible. to create sustainable local economies. Vancouver HE Carbon offsets sold by FCG into the LL Said Neilsen, ‘Achieving the protection of IW EL voluntary carbon market are used by their L such a large amount of both private and PA clients to achieve carbon neutrality. RK Crown land demonstrates that capital Island FCG identifies, develops, and finances investment can effectively be put to the forestry projects, and offers verification that service of community and conservation the offsets that result are real, additional, Eagle goals.’ and auditable by reputable third parties. BOYLE Rock POINT ErA FCG was founded in 2009, and includes PARK ERA Ecosystem Restoration Associates Inc specialists in many aspects of carbon offset is a Canadian company, formed a few years development and marketing. 0 Created by: GeoBC October 4, 2010 GeoBC Fileparh: Projects\clients_new\env\parks\misc_maps\ arcgisprojects\denmanisland_20101004.mxd Commentary by Robin Mathews Monday mourning in Courtroom 54—the end of justice in British Columbia, October 18, 2010 he figure of Justice lies in the dust, bloated and as if falling on his face is a normal occupation. shreds. Witness after witness after witness would pile up decayed this morning, her blindfold torn from her To the surprise of everyone in the courtroom, Associate public ridicule and contempt, each one for himself or herself, Tface, her scales smashed and in pieces beside her. The Chief Justice Anne MacKenzie accepted the adjusted and for Gordon Campbell and his government. vultures of the corrupt province circle over her—all package of charges and the suggested sentence presented by That would be because – as the first two Crown witnesses recognizable, all with names. Feeding on her rotting body is the Prosecution and the Defence without changing a comma. gave evidence – not many of them would be able to answer their major occupation. What a surprise! The point was made that she is wholly simple questions. They would, mostly, forget, would fumble, So ends the seven year ‘case’ against the three order-in- independent of Prosecution and Defence, of course – but, would obfuscate, would dodge, would weave, would council appointed aides charged with a panoply of offenses surprisingly, she saw the wisdom of their actions and fell in misunderstand – would, in short, give many, many involving, mostly, the corrupt transfer of BC Rail to the CNR. quickly with the proposals. And, indeed, she produced her observers the sense that they were lying outright or so The story—told in banner headlines in the Mainstream sentencing and the reasoning for it in a scant twenty minutes obviously refusing to answer questions that they had Press and Media—is that the three accused [all charges or so when the court stood down for her to do so. A something gigantic to hide. Mr Berardino told the judge this against Aneal Basi being withdrawn], are the beneficiaries remarkable person! No wonder she was raised to Associate morning that he was sure the trial—if not stopped now— of a bargain. Two admitted guilt to scaled down charges Chief Justice shortly after taking over the Basi, Virk, and Basi would go on well past the projected March 2011 ending date. (becoming less than indictable offenses)—and received two case. She didn’t even need half a day to formulate her reasons Could that have been code-language for saying the years less a day of house arrest and community service—with and to her compose her sentencing. Gordon Campbell government would be stripped of every Dave Basi, additionally, paying a fine of a little over $75,000 Attention of the Mainstream Press and Media was, of remaining shred of credibility it possesses? And so the trial (the sum of monies he admits to receiving illegally in the BC course, on the two men who admitted guilt. Indeed, Mr. must be stopped? Rail and Sooke ALR cases). William Berardino, QC, Special Prosecutor, praised them for TRIAL, please turn to page 13 The ‘surprise’ news of the ‘astonishing’ development coming forward and voluntarily admitting guilt, seeming to (Mainstream Media words) was so surprising that ‘the club’ suggest, as I understood him, that their openness merited was fully informed in advance, knew what was coming, and gentle consideration in their sentencing. DOCKBUILDINGCOMPONENTS&ACCESSORIES filled the courtroom so they could express ‘surprise and The fact that they fought the charges laid in December astonishment’. Journalists rarely there suddenly appeared. 2004 until this morning, October 18, 2010, does not seem Friends of friends, equally rarely present, were suddenly to have occurred to the Special Prosecutor … or for that there, dressed for the occasion! So confident were the real matter to the judge on the case. But six years is not, after all, winners that they went so far, obviously, as to inform the a long time (as courts measure time). “IfItFlowsͲWeGoWithIt!”TM RCMP, and the courtroom was host to about eight RCMP in The ‘costs’ of the accused, we are told, have been paid thus x FLOATATION black business suits, there to show their ‘surprise’ and far by you, the taxpayer, and there will be no move to recover x DOCKKITS ‘astonishment’ at the news. the costs—even though the men accept their guilt. Nor, x FRAMEHDW. You didn’t know what was coming. And I didn’t know. announced the Attorney General, will there be a public x LADDERS But the Gary Bass RCMP team was told and arrived in their inquiry into the BC Rail Scandal—which scandal, plainly, x BUMPERS x CLEATS best suits to be present and ‘surprised’. was only scratched by the aborted trial of the three men. The x GALV.STEEL Indeed, controversial (BC Rail Scandal) investigation circling vultures, we may be sure, will therefore go on feeding MOORINGBUOYS&REGULATORY FRAMES leader (Inspector?) Kevin Debruyckere was there. He was on the rotting body of Justice in the province. And none of BUOYSFOAMͲFILLED x DECKING& brother-in-law to Kelly Reichert, B.C. Liberal Party Executive them will be exposed by public inquiry…. MORE Director in 2003-04, and was alleged by Defence to have Some will think that the three men got off astonishingly been communicating with Reichert—himself alleged to have cheaply. But perhaps there was good reason to rush them been communicating with Gordon Campbell and Dave Basi out of the courtroom. Perhaps the rush out the door was not

… and … and …. for their sakes at all – but to get many others off cheaply…. FOAM-FILLED FLOATATION When Vancouver Sun reporter Neal Hall asked Remember that the two Crown witnesses heard so far MOLDED & CUSTOM Debruyckere about those allegations (none proved), the gave evidence they didn’t mean to give. That evidence was DOCK&DECKBOXES officer tripped over his consonants, stumbled on his vowels, that the Defence team would rip the Crown witnesses— WholesaleDistributorstoContractors&DIY’sforover40years unleashed a stream of nonsense and looked for all the world especially those closely connected to Gordon Campbell—to DEALEROPPORTUNITIESAVAILABLE Page 8, ISLAND TIDES, Oct 28, 2010

Round The Islands

for Two’ (or lunch) and admission to TLC’s famous Abkhazi Garden— brilliant rhododendrons, songbirds TLC singing away, homemade scones with A Green Gift Devon-style cream and strawberry jam, and That Keeps Giving Victoria’s own Silk Road Tea. With a gift certificate you could get them all to yourself Making That Shopping List? Given the for an hour or two. Go to overloads on Route Nº5 while Queen of https://secure1.conservancy.bc.ca/store/, Cumberland is in refit, (Pender seems most do your shopping and put your feet up. badly affected with overloads: every day on every sailing and some people have simply Salt Spring Goes Nuts on not even got home on the last ferry), you 10/10/10 ~ Peter Lamb may want to rethink that Christmas At noon on October 10, 2010 Salt Springers shopping. The Land Conservancy of BC joined 7347 other communities in 188 offers gift ideas that show you’ve got both countries for a global day of action on A nut tree, donated by Seven Ravens tree on Galiano. Then again two years ago we people and the environment in mind, and climate change. Nursery, was planted in Centennial Park in had a storm that knocked the power out for keeps you off the ferries—as well as saves Coordinated by the 350.org team, its Ganges as part of the event, to symbolize up to seven days, depending where you and maintains special places in BC. Here are founder, Bill McKibben, was ecstatic about both the healing of CO2 imbalance and the lived. This may not be Newfoundland but some of the ideas you will find online. the response in his email message the nurturing of future generations. Transition weather happens and the earth sometimes Save an acre by contributing to one of following day. ‘How do you shakes, this is normal, there will be power three TLC projects: Wild Hills and Beaches, say ‘thank you’ 7,347 times? outages, there will be ferry interruptions and Horsefly River Expansion Project or People got to work yesterday there will be earthquake and fire. We hope Clearwater Wetlands and Wildlife Corridor. in at least that many places no-one gets hurt but it is still called an For a nominal tax-deductible contribution around the world—the planet emergency when life as we expect it stops. TLC will send your loved one a fun has never seen anything quite In addition to police, fire and ambulance, informational package including a that widespread. Or quite that we are fortunate that all the Islands have an personalized certificate and a reflective beautiful.’ Emergency Program that can kick into place ‘Green Band for Green Lands’. 125 people gathered on a when these disruptions happen. Recently Make a ‘wild’ addition to your family this sunny but windy day at the Southern Gulf Islands Emergency year: adopt a Grizzly, Cougar or Owl—all Centennial Park in Ganges, Program held its first ever inter-Island three faux-ferocious beings are up for Salt Spring Island for a work gathering, a sort of mini-conference cum adoption. In addition to the cute plush party for climate change. The networking opportunity. About eighty of us animal of your choice, the adoption package gathering opened with an assembled at the impressive Pender Island also comes with a personalized adoption inspiring chant called ‘One Community Centre for a day to mull over certificate, and features an educational World,’ led by Barb Slater. the question, What do you do when the pamphlet explaining how your symbolic Over 30 people from all parts power goes out for a week? Which in turn adoption will help save wildlife habitat and of the Island converged in begets another question, How prepared are other special places in BC. Ganges on bicycles in a critical you for the next interuption? TLC Tribute Gifts: whether it’s mass ride to join the rally. Only you can answer that. We received environmental, agricultural or heritage Sponsored by Transition Salt Spring, Salt Spring also distributed a variety of nut workshop lessons in do-it-yourself first aid, properties that get that special person Eco-Cell and Ecology International, trees to residents to plant in their own putting out your own fire, communicating, excited, he or she will surely be delighted to gardens as a part of their ‘Nut and attempting to start a generator that had receive a Tribute Gift. TLC will send a Capital of Canada’ project not been properly serviced. Ably hosted by personalized card to the person you have which aims to increase local the genial Ian Elliott, the gathering itself was honoured through your thoughtful resilience to future upheavals a mixture of the seasoned Island veteran donation. caused by climate change or and the recently arrived. The essential An Explore BC Gift Certificates could other factors. message to everyone is ‘Be Prepared.’ These take your special person to bask in the sun For more information on are rural Islands and we need to look out for along the Cowichan River, appreciate the Transition Salt Spring and to each other. So: what will you do when the natural beauty and rich architecture of the receive regular news about power goes out for a week and the roads are Baldwin House on Deer Lake (Burnaby), our upcoming events, see: closed? bark with the sea-lions on South Winchelsea organizers contacted faith groups, service http://transitionsaltspring.ning.com. Making a plan is a good start: How much Island, view spectacular sunsets over clubs, environmental groups, cyclists, and Emergency Program food do you need? How much water? How Nimpo Lake and more! Redeemable for a folk of all ages to demonstrate our collective Conference on Pender ~ dependent are you on the fridge? Can you stay at any of TLC’s Holiday Cottages, a concern for a changing climate and to be a Brian Crumblehulme cook a meal and heat the house? If you have distinctive Conservation Holiday, or at powerful catalyst for getting our One morning thirteen years ago we woke up a generator do you check it regularly and is TLC’s ever-popular Sooke Potholes governments and other community leaders to a meter of snow, followed hours later by there sufficient fuel for seven days? Do you Campground, these gift certificates will to become more engaged in working very heavy rain. The power bounced off and have enough medication to last a week and delight almost anyone on your list. Find out together on solutions –and speaking out on, roads and ferries stopped, and do you have anyone in your home ill or more about ecotourism with TLC. more forcibly to make them happen. Many everything else closed. At that time we disabled? What about pets and animals? If Last but not least treat someone to ‘Tea groups brought their banners and signs and owned a country lodge and we were full. the police called and told you get out and their people in solidarity Most of our guests were from the Seattle camp at the school, could you? Do you know your neighbours, their names, phone Rainwater Harvesting Systems with the cause. Several area and I-5 was closed for a week and our speakers brought positive guests were stuck. The police even dropped numbers, and whether they are at home or ABOVE & BELOWGROUND APPLICATIONS messages of action for the off additional people they had found away? This is not Domesday stuff, it’s called most critical crisis our stranded and snowbound. common sense. FEATURING civilization has ever faced. Four years ago a major forest fire erupted If you are self-sufficient and think you’re world leading okay then how about the neighbours? The brands Emergency Program on your Island needs volunteers. Up-to-date lists maintained by neighbourhood contact people, enable Emergency Services to reach people by RTI, please turn to next page

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ISLAND TIDES, Oct 28, 2010, Page 9 distance (until the Canadian winter says otherwise), and partly because, each time I arrive at a new place, I will be stopping for a week in order to work as a wwoofer (www.wwoof.ca) with someone in the community who is working to produce food in a sustainable and organic fashion. So far I have stayed in Sointula, Black Creek, Port Alberni, Duncan, Saanich and on Salt Spring and Galiano Islands. And why am I doing this? Well, it seemed like a good idea at the time... I recently obtained the visa that allowed me to immigrate here from the UK, and thought this would be the perfect opportunity to learn more about both my new home country, and organic food growing. It also seemed like a great way to give something back to the nation that has welcomed me in, and since it was all about sustainability, using a sustainable mode of transport seemed the logical choice. And so it was that I woke up one day and realised I’d talked myself into cycling across the second largest country in the world. Fortunately, though, it’s all in a good cause, as my constant travelling is providing the perfect opportunity to tell as many people as possible about the fantastic work done by the charity SOS Children’s Villages. Started over 60 years ago in Austria, the charity now works in over 120 countries worldwide, providing new homes and families for children who have lost their parents. As I continue my A cycle journey to learn about her new country. Tana Silverland arives in Port Hardy. Cycling across Canada, she stops for a fascinating travels across the country, I know that the fantastic experiences I’m having are due in no small part to week at a time to work as a wwoofer. She is an advocate for SOS Childrens Villages (see story below). the loving upbringing I received as a child, and the confidence that gave me; by encouraging people to support RTI from previous page SOS Children’s Villages, I hope one day to hear the story of geographical area through a ‘telephone tree’ in a timely amusing themselves while a few dozen honour thousands an SOS child cycling off to some great adventure too! manner. If you can donate six hours a year, contact your who have died in war,’ he commented, ‘I was gripped by the Since I started my journey in Whitehorse this June, I’ve Island co-ordinator asap. two scenes—both a celebration of life.’ seen more beautiful scenery than I thought possible; met a And if you are not in a strong position, don’t die in the The coffins in the picture represent soldiers who have huge number of wonderful, quirky, passionate, friendly bush, plan your escape. And remember, when you are holed died that week with the crosses representing soldiers who people; dived into the island spirit with my first ever skinny- up, it’s the little things that can make or break your have died previously. The white crosses represent one and dipping experience on Salt Spring Island, and celebrated my adventure: the ability to make coffee, watch TV, stay warm, the red crosses represent 10 deaths. The memorial is first Canadian Thanksgiving at a ‘medieval feast’ in Victoria. and flush the toilet. designed to honour those who have died, create a place to It’s been hard work, but it’s been worth it: I’ve learned an Naming Ladysmith’s Sports Fields grieve, acknowledge the human cost of war, encourage incredible amount about an incredible number of things, The Town of Ladysmith is requesting public input into the interaction about war, and educate the public about the and also done my best to make up for the fact that SOS naming of the new Sportsfield Complex at the north-west needs of the returning war vets. Children’s Villages spends almost none of its money on end of 4th Avenue, which includes the recently constructed Though Toby has been a professional photographer for advertising. multi-use artificial turf field, and will also include two the past three years, his previous career was in trauma For more information about the work of SOS Children’s regulation size softball pitches, and a psychology. ‘The first picture I got published was the Villages, or to make a donation, please visit www.sos- changeroom/clubhouse. grounding of the Robertson II,’ says Toby. childrensvillages.org; updates on my journey across the Proposed names can be sent in either by email Currently Toby and his writing partner, Jessica Easton, family farms of Canada can be found on my blog at [email protected], mailed or hand delivered to Ladysmith are working on a book based on their Mayne Island August RTI, please turn to page 10 City Hall until November 17. art show, which included Beach Side Memorial. ‘The Gulf Island Photographer Wins reaction we received from this and other images from the recognition down under show, along with Jessica’s writing, inspired us to enter the world of publishing,’ says Toby. Mayne Island photographer Toby Snelgrove, who is ‘Where will your next meal come amassing an amazing photo record of Mayne Island’s community life at www.tobography.com , has won a page in from?’ ~ Tana Silverland Australia’s People & Planet Diary & Calendar. Chosen from Here in Canada, this question might provoke a discussion PROTECT YOURSELF AND THOSE AROUND YOU of local versus Fairtrade produce, organic growing or the 4,000 images submitted by 1,000 photographers, Toby’s The Vancouver Island Health Authority (VIHA) is encouraging ‘Beach Side Memorial’ was one of 54 selected. future of small family farms. For thousands of children everyone to get their flu shot this year. It is the best way to The surreal photo he submitted was actually found by around the world, on the other hand, the question is of an protect yourself and your family from influenza. The flu accident. While taking his grandchildren to the amusement altogether more fundamental nature. And it is my interest vaccine will be available starting October 18, 2010 . in both of these interpretations of the question that has park on the Santa Monica Pier in California, he noticed a Influenza immunization is FREE for: brought me to Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. myriad of crosses along with four coffins on the adjacent • People 65 and older and their caregivers I am currently about four months into a two-year journey beach. What he came across was a beachside memorial • Children and adults with chronic health conditions across the whole of Canada. Why is it taking me so long? constructed every Sunday by the Veterans for Peace. and their household contacts Well, partly because I will be cycling the greater part of the ‘I couldn’t believe the juxtaposition—hundreds of people • Health care workers • Emergency responders Beach Side Memorial Photo Toby Snelgrove • Healthy children aged 6-23 months • Household contacts and caregivers of children aged 0-23 months • Pregnant women who will be in their 3rd trimester during the influenza season • Residents of nursing homes and other chronic care facilities • Owners and operators of poultry farms • Aboriginal peoples • People who are very obese (those with a body mass index of 40 or greater) • Those who provide care or service in potential out break settings housing high risk persons (e.g. crew on ships) If you meet any of the above criteria, you can receive your flu shot at local flu clinics held at various locations on Galiano, Pender, Mayne and Saturna Islands. For more information on the local clinic schedules or influenza: • call HealthLinkBC at 8-1-1, or • visit www.viha.ca/flu . Please bring your Care Card to the flu clinic. If you don't meet the above criteria, but still want the protection of a flu shot, contact your family physician or pharmacy about vaccine availability and cost. Page 10, ISLAND TIDES, Oct 28, 2010 SORTING BEACH CLEAN-UP GARBAGE ON DENMAN November Garden Calendar Brian Crumblehulme The man in the street imagines that food that does not require summer watering, is comes from a can, and that a can of peas for tough, naturally short and provides an purchase is merely a matter of going to the attractive cover for spring bulbs. So maybe grocer. The fact that peas have to be grown in this is the time to ask yourself, do I really soil, have to be sown, manured and need a lawn? If yes, then clean it up, cut it cultivated, never enters his head. The result is that to vast numbers of town dwellers there short before winter, sprinkle with lime and is no connection between food and the soil. — bone meal, or better yet, blood & bone meal, Sherwell Cooper, 1952 and over-seed any areas that look tatty or his is the month of rain and wind. worn thin. If the sod is uneven now is the Water will soak into the earth and time to dig up and lower hummocks and to Tleaves will fall. For many people this add fill to the hollows. This will not give you is not a comfortable season. But for those a bowling green but if playing with the with roots into the culture of the Salish Sea grandchildren on soft green grass in the this is the time of replenishment. Rain is summer is a desideratum, then plan for it good, without it we cannot live here all-year- now. The majority of our grasses, native and long. And leaves on the ground are good too. introduced, like cool wet weather, and every For those fortunate enough to have a few day spent improving a lawn before deciduous trees on their land, those leaves Christmas is worth a week in spring. Earlier this year I was amused to read are invaluable for composting and making RTI from page 9 soil, and the finest tree in the forest is the that the Yorkshire Forced Rhubarb Growers tanasilverland.wordpress.com. clean-up, none of the shellfish industry had successfully petitioned the EU for maple. Ed’s Note : SOS Children’s Villages sound garbage was reclaimed by the shellfish exclusive rights to their rhubarb-growing Maple trees (leaf and wood) contain like another no-ferry gift solution. Let us farmers. technique, much like the celebrated wine about four times the mineral content of know about your favourites asap and we So instead, at the recycling depot we had vintners of Champagne. I cannot say I have most other trees, which is why plants grow will try to publish them in time for gift residents pick up items that 'took their eye' the specific Yorkshire secret but the better under maples. So sometime late in season. that they could re-use in whatever fashion principle is hundreds of years old and the month when it’s not raining or blowing, denman’s 6th Annual Beach they chose. One gentleman took almost all go outside, enjoy the fall, and start raking. consists basically of digging up a few mature the industry plastic baskets, pallets and Cleanup ~ Pat McLaughlin The simplest way to deal with leaves is to rhubarb roots in November, dump them on trays to be used in a Green Wall project that the floor of a garage or shed, and provide a Once again Denman Islanders volunteered pile them up and wait until spring before will be part of a community beautification low-level heat to about 12 –15ºC. Do not their time and effort to clean up our beaches using the black reduced compost. You can project using renewable and recyclable expose them to daylight, and with an of debris that has accumulated over the also heap them directly around fruit trees, materials. We were told he would let us occasional sprinkling of water you can year. A big thank you to all of you who roses and perennial plants as winter know how the project is proceeding and harvest perfect red, sweet rhubarb for participated, whether it was walking the protection and spring fertilizer. Or you can send us photos when it is completed. A great Christmas. If you make continual harvests beach collecting the garbage, sorting it at the mix them into your compost heap with a deal of cargo netting was also picked up by you will kill the plant which is what they do recycling depot, loading the truck to go to little top soil and kitchen waste and create a residents for use in their gardens. wonderful black loam for use next spring. in Yorkshire. the landfill in Cumberland, or whether you This new use of the industry debris is Then: However, if you only have one picking picked up the garbage to recycle it in your better than it going to the landfill, however For those with a lawn freshly uncovered, and then quickly replant the roots outside in own way, it was all appreciated. we still prefer it be stopped at its source, the this is also the time to renovate grass. the cold, they will survive and produce for A special thank you to the crew from the shellfish farm. Assuming you have been truly urban and many years to come. ferry and firehall that picked up the debris We also appreciated finding a home for kept the grass reasonably cut the next best Still on the subject of salvaging plants, beside the western ferry terminal that has some of the re-usable debris as this exercise is to rake it clean of moss. lily-of-the-valley bulbs lifted and potted now been there for several years. Cleaning up the Maintaining large lawns in this region is can be tricked into flowering for Christmas area was a mammoth job that required lightened the load going to the landfill. We questionable because to do them justice and provide a fragrant spring air to your derelict boats to be dismantled so they could estimate about half of what would have gone they demand a lot of work in spring and dining room. By contrast, withered dwarf be loaded on a truck and trailer and to the landfill found another use. early summer, and frequently require chrysanthemums bought, full of bloom and delivered to the landfill. And, last but not In spite of this, the total that went to the watering which given that we live in a dry promise, in September can be cut down to least, thank you to the recycling depot landfill was just over 2 tons—similar to past zone is profligate to say the least. I maintain an inch or so and planted out in the garden people who put up with the nasty mess over years. There is still some debris on the a fescue grass cover around my fruit trees on any frost-free day. If you haven’t killed the last weekend of the cleanup when piles foreshore that will have to be recovered by of garbage were dumped there to be sorted boat. As soon as this can be arranged it will and finally disposed of. be done. As in the past, a large percentage of the Once again we thank you for your Islands Large & Small debris was from the shellfish industry, and support of DIMSC and your participation in although they had been advised of the beach what has become an annual event. 0 Salish Sea Good Life them they will send up new shoots and most of the food groups and abundant flower again next fall. But unless you spray quantities of carotene. Like many of us they them with growth retardants they will most also have thin skins and so need to be Eating, Sleeping & Shopping likely grow to their proper height of three treated carefully so I leave mine in the feet so remember to place them at the back garden until desired. Left on the pantry shelf Ocean Soul alexandramorton.ca of the flower bed. or the fridge they will rapidly dry into Book Caffé Carrot recipes obscene rubbery things. Fresh organic carrots do not need peeling and as most of New and Used The carrot is an abused root. Ever since the Books the vitamins are located in or under the skin, Books starting at $1.00 Romans introduced them to Europe the sad wash and brush them gently under water. til Oct 31 things have been dried, mashed, baked and Open at 6 am Daily So to paraphrase Mrs. Beeton, first pick 9100 East Saanich Road 250-246-1977 boiled to death. Real carrots, the ones your carrots. North Saanich 1578 Joan Avenue, Crofton picked fresh from the garden, are naturally www.roostfarmcentre.co m books photos drawings frost hardy, sweet, tender, tasty and contain GARDENING, please turn to page 15

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LETTERS from page 4 Horn River Basin and further north in BC. All drilling them more for water use through increased license fees, mess of pottage! requires the use of water for making the drilling mud. water rates and so forth. 5) M AINTAIN FITFIr AS IS .FITFIR is a time-honoured, Hydrofracking needs even more water and threatens the 3) F uLL meaningfuL PuBLIC CONSuLTATION PrIOr TO working, self-limiting system that deters over-allocation of contamination of water aquifers with toxic chemicals as has INTrOduCING LEGISLATION TO ChANGE ThE WateR act , water supplies. The government in its role as manager of already occurred in northeastern BC to some citizens’ water Or BArrING ThAT A rEFErENduM ON PrOPOSEd ChANGES our water has over-allocated water in many areas of the supplies. One shale gas well requires 8 to 10 million gallons TO ThE WateR act . This public consultation process on province according to their maps. What they need to do is of toxic chemical contaminated water for the hydrofracking such a serious subject as our water supplies is a complete attend to their mismanagement, disclose the reasons why process. Hydrofracking is not a licensed use of water listed failure. First of all, your WAM Workshops were held they have over-allocated water supplies and fix that process, on the licenses database. through a very limited ‘invitation only’ process. You should not modify FITFIR to cover the errors they have made. It is When I inquired of the Water Stewardship Branch about have notified every license holder in the province of these entirely unclear why we are in this position. this, I was informed that exploratory activities do not pay workshops and publicly advertised the workshops at least Furthermore, often the government will state as a fact for water use as other licensed users of water do. Alberta a month in advance in newspapers all over the province. something that is not true. For example at the workshop I farmers have seen their water supplies seriously impacted Relying on computers also marginalizes a significant attended, a participant (a lawyer actually) asked what by all of the drilling activities in their province. Is that what portion of the public and can only be justified as cheaper information the MoE spokesperson was basing his we have to look forward to in BC? than other kinds of advertising. From the public point of statement that BC had been in a drought for a number of A comment on the workshop here. The workshop view, if you can ʼt afford to advertise the discussion of years and expected to be in the future. The MoE rep attempted to restrict all discussion to water and purported changes to the Water Act , then you shouldn ʼt be doing it. immediately backtracked and said that the precipitation that the state of our forests, other resource extraction Meaningful consultation means not only that the data didn ʼt show a drought, but some areas of BC had activities or the government corporate policy was not on the government commit to taking into account the comments experienced less precipitation. This is the kind of sweeping table. Unacceptable. of the public in their decision making process. It also means misstatement that the public objects to, especially when Attempting to separate water from land is ludicrous. that the public consultation continue in the process so we discussing a subject as vital as our water supplies. There is really no such thing as an aquatic ecosystem. An have an opportunity to comment on each stage of decision The problem with modifying FITFIR is that government, ecosystem by definition includes the land, water, air, all life making by government , If the government cannot commit behind closed doors, will develop a priority system for forms and the economies based on that ecosystem. Within to making changes at each stage to its policies, based on the modifications. This is entirely unacceptable. If the any ecosystem all elements interact. To attempt to talk consultation, then the entire process is meaningless. government wants to change the Water Act then an open about protecting an aquatic ecosystem without talking In fact, that is why I want the BC government to hold a process with public decision making must do it. Of course, about the land around it and the forest, shrub or grass cover public vote, an actual referendum, on the final changes to domestic use for health and sanitation and agriculture must that collects and stores the precipitation that feed the the Water Act prior to those changes being legislated. Full have the highest priority (after instream flows). aquatic systems is utterly meaningless. It is similarly government disclosure is required. The government has lost Protecting instream flows, or as some prefer to refer to meaningless to assume we can have continuous growth in the trust of the people on these matters for the reasons this as protecting nature, is of course the basis of any either our human population or a resource-based economy discussed above. allocation system and would thus have first priority. If the within that ecosystem. Yet this is exactly what WAM does. 4) N O ChANGES TO LICENSE STATuS FOr dOMESTIC uSE water is not there in the first place, it can ʼt be allocated. 2) C OMMITTEd PrOvINCIAL FuNdING TO IMPLEMENT ANY (SurFACE WATEr Or WELL LICENSES ). The government But where is the data for guaranteeing instream flows? ChANGES . All of the policy discussion papers state that says it wants to make domestic use licenses a ‘permitted’ This is the problem. First, the hydrometric stations in BC funding must be committed to make any of the use. The justification for this is that the limited staff could are all federal installations over which the MoE has no recommended changes come to fruition. Yet the monies for then turn their attention to more critical issues. First of all, control. In fact, a few years ago there were 470 such stations the MoE have been cut over the next 3 years in the current if the government can ʼt afford to administer licenses than in BC, now there are 450. How can relevant data for all budget, as have the monies for Forestry, ILMB, Agriculture, it should not be granted the powers to manage our water. allocations in BC be garnered from a shrinking database of Energy, Mines & Petroleum Resources. Period. Management of any of our collectively owned information? The answer: it can ʼt. How the BC government can with a straight face say the natural resources is the prime charge of government. It is a 6) I NCLudE WOrdING IN ThE WateR act ThAT WAM will protect water supplies when in fact there is no charge vested in them by the Crown. The government of the ACKNOWLEdGES WATEr AS A huMAN rIGhT , COLLECTIvELY committed funding to make this happen is beyond me. It day is not the Crown. This is the truth that government OWNEd BY ALL AS A COMMON rESOurCE . This public would appear through reading documents that the true needs to come to terms with. Then perhaps we will see some concern can not be emphasized enough as it goes to the intent of WAM is to limit public rights to water and charge changes in the policies that are selling off our heritage for a LETTERS, please turn to page 13 SHORELINE • Spe cializing in water Butler Gravel & DESIGN acc ess over steep Concrete …Better from the ground up! & rugged terrain Reliable Service, Quality Products Specializing in stone & quartz counters & Competitive Prices • Fully insured Your island specialists Serving All The Gulf Islands • Excellent references Phone 250-652-4484 1625 Quadra Street, Victoria Fax 250-652-4486 250-388-9200 250-381-8551 Peter Christenson • 250-629-8386 [email protected] gazzola [email protected] www.shorelinedesign.ca 6700 Butler Crescent, Saanichton, B.C. Page 12, ISLAND TIDES, Oct 28, 2010 Proposed Enbridge northern tanker routes Bravo UBCM!—say groups Organizations working to protect BC’s coast the rest of the BC Liberal and NDP caucuses from the threat of oil supertankers are have been standing up for British congratulating delegates from BC Columbia’s coast. Unfortunately, many municipalities—who passed a resolution grassroots Conservative supporters, who, against proposed oil tanker projects for BC’s polling shows, are just as likely to support a north coast at the UBCM Convention in tanker ban as anybody else, are apparently Whistler on October 1. not being represented by Stephen Harper or ‘BC’s local governments have spoken local Conservative MPs.’ clearly that we need to protect our coastal ‘Polling shows 80% of British communities, economies, and ecosystems Columbians oppose oil tanker traffic on the from oil industry proposals that would bring north coast,’ says Celine Trojand, an hundreds of supertankers every year to the organizer for Dogwood Initiative who coast of the Great Bear Rainforest,’ says attended the UBCM Convention. ‘We’re Jennifer Lash, Executive Director of Living ecstatic about the UBCM vote, and we hope Oceans Society. ‘In addition, municipal that in the next federal election British delegates are pointing directly at the federal Columbians will place their vote for government to end the debate once and for candidates and parties that have committed all with a legislated ban on north coast oil to protect our coast with a legislated ban.’ tankers.’ (See maps, right, for tanker ban The following resolutions were passed: area and tanker routes.) B139 Bulk Crude Oil Tanker According to the BC Seafood Alliance, Traffic (as amended): Therefore be it BC’s coast employs 56,000 people in the resolved that the UBCM be opposed to any seafood and tourism industries. The Exxon expansion of bulk crude oil tanker traffic in Valdez spill in 1989, and the recent Gulf Dixon Entrance, Hecate Strait and Queen Coast spill show that a single accident can Charlotte Sound in British Columbia; And be it further resolved that the UBCM destroy or seriously impair entire coastal petition the federal government to establish a industries. legislated ban on bulk crude oil tanker traffic On October 15, the Green Party of through Dixon Entrance, Hecate Strait and Canada renewed its call for a legislated ban Queen Charlotte Sound in British Columbia on oil tankers along the entire BC coast. B140 Tar Sands Oil : Therefore be it ‘When, on June 21, Michael Ignatieff resolved that the UBCM oppose tar sands oil made a commitment to legislate a ban on being shipped in pipelines across northern BC Proposed tanker no-go zone north coast oil tankers, it created a crystal for loading onto crude oil tankers. 0 clear political landscape in BC on this issue,’ Ed's Note: for an article on the expansion says Eric Swanson, ‘No Tankers’ director for of southern tankers traffic from Burnaby Dogwood Initiative, ‘Local MPs like Ujjal past the Southern Gulf Islands and Saanich Dosanjh, Don Davies, Joyce Murray, Fin see our next edition. Donnelly, Hedy Fry and Keith Martin, and

SATURNA from page 5 degradation. I was surprised and delighted to hear that from them. After the Haggis dialogue, Judy and Mark take them to Lyall Harbour trail to discuss the salmon project, and then on to East Point and Winter Cove. The visiting students will be returning to their homelands and all said that British Columbia’s wilds and environmental policies had a powerful impact on them. They would also like to return to Saturna some day. 0

NOTICE OF WOOD POLE MAINTENANCE PROGRAM

To ensure public safety, safety of our workers, and electrical system reliability, BC Hydro contractors inspect and treat wood power poles along distribution lines. Poles that have been in service for at least 14 years (lodgepole pine) and 20 years (western red cedar) are inspected, tested for strength and treated near ground level with wood preservative to prevent and/or stop decay. Untreated poles typically have a service life of only 30 years, while treated poles can last up to 70 years, conserving demand on our forest resources.

Wood poles will be inspected and treated along distribution lines between November 15th, 2010 and March 15, 2011 on Mayne and Saturna Islands.

Wood preservatives used are approved and registered for utility wood poles by Health Canada. Contractors are certified and licensed by the BC Ministry of Environment, and work is completed under the direction of BC Hydro in accordance with BC Hydro’s Pest Management Plan for Wood Structure Maintenance, No.105-0976-09/14.

For more information contact: Sharon Tomkins, Manager, Field Operations 9 3 5 at 1 250 755-7165 or email [email protected]. 2

bchydro.com

Publication: Gulf Island Tides (PMCP) Size: 5” x 77 lines Insertion Dates: Oct. 28, Nov. 11 ISLAND TIDES, Oct 28, 2010, Page 13 Hands up for Galiano restorative learning centre ~ Emily Menzies n 10/10/10, fifty members of the Galiano refundable deposit due by the end of December to purchase Development program. We would also like to acknowledge Conservancy Association joined the international the land needed for the Centre. The conservancy is also the YMCA’s Youth Environmental Internship Program, Oclimate action movement working and investing in committed to raising the remaining capital needed to which allowed the hiring of staff to assist with this project. a better future for youth. A resounding ‘Yes!’ vote at the complete the purchase by mid-February—$2 million. It is The Galiano Restorative Learning Centre will benefit local and regional youth, residents and visitors, teachers and learners—as well as all living beings who depend on a stable climate. Within ten days of this Extraordinary Meeting, community members contributed over $60,000 towards the initial deposit! Would you or someone you know like to support this community project as well? Please contact Ken Millard for more information: [email protected], 250-539-2424 to help create a legacy of hope for the future, today. 0

TRIAL from page 7 The others, then, getting off cheaply … seem to be many of the witnesses scheduled to be called by the Crown—almost all of them close associates of Gordon Campbell in one way or another. But they, it appears, are not the only ones. For the Special Prosecutor was appointed in violation of the legislation covering the process to appoint Special Prosecutors. And whether or not Mr. Berardino is the best Extraordinary General Meeting held last Sunday has looking for donors whose contributions will be matched by and most honest criminal lawyer in the Commonwealth (he launched the organization’s latest and boldest initiative: to the Natural Areas Conservation Program administered by might be so), the violation of process in his appointment purchase land to create a permanent ‘Restorative Learning the Nature Conservancy of Canada. These funds will help makes his every action in the case possess the potential for Centre’ that will benefit people throughout the region, us acquire and protect over 290 acres of diverse ecosystems, the perception of bias on his part by observers. That especially youth in need from our urban centres. connecting existing protected areas in a green corridor ‘potential for the perception of bias’ makes (and made) his Staff, board members, volunteers and program spanning Galiano Island coast to coast. presence in the courtroom improper and unacceptable, for recipients gave presentations and testimonials regarding The protection and restoration of these areas will help justice must be done and it must be seen to be done and the Conservancy’s success in protecting land, restoring reduce carbon emissions as native vegetation is planted cannot be so if there is the potential for the perception of bias ecosystems and providing experiential education to over building healthy soils and ensure protection from wildfires. in the actions of the Special Prosecutor. 25,000 youth and adults since it was founded in 1989. Here The value of the whole of this project is much greater than As I have said, it was essential – since the three accused at last is the opportunity to build on this work and take it to the sum of its parts however; by connecting currently men were ‘government’ - that the Attorney General’s the next level, realizing the long held dream of many separated protected areas Galiano’s many diverse and ministry appoint someone wholly unconnected to the supporters to provide multi-day outdoor education increasingly rare species will have the ability to adapt to accused or anyone in, or closely connected to, government. opportunities at a facility which models sustainability in all climate change through moving between elevations, But Mr Berardino was appointed by a ministry in which respects. It was a proud moment, as attendees envisioned ecotypes and micro-climates. Moreover, it will provide a the Attorney General, Geoff Plant, and the Deputy Attorney the many ways Islanders would now have a place from critical learning resource for restoring the resiliency of our General, Allan Seckel, were his former long-time partners which to share the experience of being immersed in vibrant ecological, social and economic communities with practical and colleagues. And then in the Spring of 2007 when Gordon beauty and peace. Residents and visitors alike will be able demonstrations of solutions that work. Campbell (truly astonishingly) inserted himself into the to restore the land while restoring themselves! The Centre’s ongoing overhead and operating costs will judicial process and erased a functioning protocol for the This decision was not taken lightly, as it commits the be covered through a social enterprise model developed vetting of cabinet documents sought by Defence, he Galiano Conservancy to first raise a $100,000 non- through a bursary for SFU’s Community Economic TRIAL, please turn to page 14

LETTERS from page 11 main problem of wrong-headed thinking regarding water The WAM seems really to be an attempt by government government will only address critical or problem areas of and its protection evinced in the WAM documents. Below to escape their responsibilities to manage our water the province. The rest of us will continue along without is a discussion I wrote recently regarding the issue of who effectively. This includes the following responsibilities: proper planning or data on which to base that planning until owns the water. a) developing databases of province-wide water we too become critical areas. Our current government is very fond of stating that it information (including that related to groundwater 8) W E dO NOT NEEd LEGISLATION TO PrOTECT uS FrOM owns all of the water in BC. Until recently the MoE water aquifers) that is necessary for proper management, OurSELvES . There will always be debates about water use, website was littered with the statement. They have since b) developing water use and water protection plans for yes. But local communities can handle that. They always toned it down somewhat, but the words are still there and all areas of the province based on the solid data collected have and they always will. Water allocation is not really the in documents written by others as well. above, problem that MoE makes it out to be in WAM documents. This is not the truth however. The Crown is the people , c) basing water allocations on the developed plans based What the problem really is, is lack of protection of our entire so really the government of the day only exercises powers on the real data BC water supply from resource extraction and related like a trustee of an estate would. They do not ‘own’ the d) dedicating the funds necessary to carry out all three activities. estate, they simply manage it for a time (see also Editorial levels of action including staff, equipment and IT systems What citizens do need from government is legislation page 4). that are necessary for this work. with teeth to protect our watersheds and pristine water 7) LOCAL dECISION MAKING POWEr ON ALL WATEr There is no proposal in WAM for the government to systems from destruction by resource extraction activities ALLOCATIONS It was very apparent at the workshop which I undertake any of these activities. It seems rather that including IPPs. Nelle Maxey, Winlaw 0 attended that the public understands all water use decisions must be effected at the local level. This means the government cannot simply impose across the board G F < K J :F M < ›G < E ; < I  @ J C 8 E ; ›9 : standards and expect local compliance. We offer Local history, common sense and traditional values must play a role in water-use decisions. This will only happen if visitors a local decision making authority is incorporated in the Water Act. Something that does not exist at the present time, nor better deal! is it proposed in the WAM documents. Our quality accommodation includes: indoor pool, sauna, OCEANSIDE DESIGN free parking, in-room coffee, a convenient location and a warm welcome. Stay with us. PenderPender IslandIsland BusinessBusiness CChristmashristmas PPartyarty HOMES * DecemberDecember 1100th...in...in oourur SSeaglasseaglass BallroomBallroom RENOVATIONS $ $$40.0040.00 perper personperson LANDSCAPES from 55 39 JoinJoin fellowfellow associatesassociates inin celebratingcelebrating thethe season!season! • ForFor moremore informationinformation andand toto bookbook youryour table,table, 3110 DOUGLAS ST. VICTORIA, BC V8Z 3K4 • across from Mayfair Shopping Centre, pleaseplease callcall 250-629-2118!250-629-2118! Green Design Gulf Island Homes & Cottages BROUffff CGrEid & F RLemEoMteI SNitGes -S TMowInT &H C o bu.nat.r/yb H.aomrcesh leed ap 1-800-997-6797 R ESORT & SPA www.blueridgeinn.ca * Singl*e Singleoccu poccupancy.ancy. Su bSubjectject t oto a availability.vailability .Valid Val itod Marchto Ma 31,rch 2003 31, 2011. nnn%gf\kjZfm\%Zfd›250-629-2100 wwww..oceansidedesign.ca 250-752-2909 Page 14, ISLAND TIDES, Oct 28 2010

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TRIAL from page 13 appointed as sole arbiter Allan Seckel, then Deputy Attorney not go on acting as if the wrongful appointment was of no General, who would consult, said Campbell, with the Special consequence to the legitimacy of the trial. Prosecutor – who just happened to be the former, eleven For the charges against the accused could not be UNITING ISLANDS—BIG AND SMALL year long, partner and colleague of that sole arbiter, Allan legitimately made by a Crown Prosecutor who was Seckel. appointed in violation of the legislation covering the process Did something in this edition: Those facts—and the primary one that he was appointed of his appointment. in a violation of the legislation governing such appointments And so, one may ask, was the judge on the case, Associate • inform you? —were becoming more and more known—and potentially Chief Justice Anne MacKenzie, anxious to see some kind of • pique your interest? explosive. And, so, it may be fair to ask if one of the people deal to get the accused out the door and the trial over … • amuse you? who more and more wanted the accused pushed out the quickly? door was William Berardino, QC, the ‘Crown’ in the case The questions about the Special Prosecutor and the • give you a warm, fuzzy feeling? against Basi, Virk, and Basi? Is it possible that Mr. Berardino presiding judge were so clear and so plain that the NDP • make a good contact for you? became more and more interested in a ‘deal’ that would should have been asking questions publicly and demanding • find you an opportunity? benefit the accused, end the trial, and get them out the door? attention to the irregularity. But the NDP would not act or It may be. But, if so, he was, perhaps, not alone in the recognize the situation in any way. Now that opportunity for • inspire you to take action? courtroom wanting that development. For the judge, a major breakthrough in the BC Rail Scandal is past, the • make a conversation topic? Associate Chief Justice Anne MacKenzie, was fully informed NDP is asking for a Public Inquiry, which the Attorney • find you a good buy or service? of Mr. Berardino’s wrongful place in the courtroom. And she General has, of course, brushed aside. would do nothing whatever to remedy that situation. And so Was there anyone else, could there be anyone else, you It costs a lot to keep a regional she was permitting the jury to listen to testimony and to might ask, wanting the trial over and the accused out the door? attempt to judge a trial which was, in effect, illegitimate. She What about the lawyers for the accused? They would be newspaper going! was allowing men accused by a wrongfully appointed Special expected to want their clients cleared of all accusations and … Prosecutor to sit in the accused box. She was, I suggest, out the door. Apparently they judged (rightly or wrongly) that VOLUNTARY S UBSCRIPTIONS help courting real trouble if the trial went on much longer, for couldn’t happen. It would seem they judged that their clients keep all this great news coming! more and more people were becoming aware of the would be convicted. If so, they may have been wrong in their implications of the wrongful appointment. judgement. If you are already receiving Island Tides in your One of the implications was that the presiding judge could TRIAL, please turn to page 15 Island mailbox or if you pick it up from one of our yellow boxes or racks located across the Strait of Georgia and from Victoria to Campbell River or, if you read online, you can show your Call Us Toll Free For Quotes On support and appreciation by mailing a • Homeowners • Farm voluntary subscription of • Commercial • Bed & Breakfasts ($25 + hst = $28.00) or an amount of SALT SPRING ISLAND : Mike Garside • 250-537-5527 your choice to: 1103–115 Fulford-Ganges Road Box 55, Pender Island, B.C. v0N 2M0 SIDNEY : (Or call us with your VISA number, 250-629-3660) Doug Guedes • 1-866-656-9886 • (656-9886) A2–9769 Fifth Street BRENTWOOD BAY : Doug Strong • 1-877-655-1141 • (652-1141) Thank You! 7178 W. Saanich Rd And a heartfelt ‘Thank You’ to those of you OAK BAY : who have sent voluntary subscriptions and Gary Law • 250-592-5544 112-2187 Oak Bay Avenue autoplan extra donations. Keep those lovely phone SAANICHTON : calls, cards, letters, and emails coming, too! DAN OLIVE • 1-877-633-0877 We paste them all in our scrapbooks! Anchor Insurance Agencies Ltd., 2-7855 East Saanich Road www.seafirstinsurance.com ISLAND TIDES, Oct 28, 2010, Page 15 Islands’ Bulletin Board BULLETIN BOARD BOXED ADS: 1.5”, 2”, 2.5”, & 3”• B&W: $23.36 per inch+hst • COLOUR: $31.80 per inch+hst — multi-issue discounts with prepayment • WORD ADS: (UP TO 25 WORDS) $16.80 (inc hst), ADDITIONAL WORDS 28¢ per word (inc hst) • PAYMENT WITH ORDER VISA & MASTERCARD ACCEPTED • Next DEADLINE: November 3 • Phone: 250-629-3660 • Email: [email protected] AUTOMOTIVE MARINE HOME & PROPERTY SERVICES

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GARDENING from page 10 TRIAL from page 14 Moroccan Carrot Salad: the stock and grate a spoonful of fresh ginger in But if (as has been hinted elsewhere) the trial dragged on until far past March, Prep time about 10 minutes, Macerating time, just before blending. and the judgement by the jury was ‘guilty’, and an uncooperative Attorney General a couple of hours, Serves 4-6 Glazed Carrots: set about getting back the ‘costs’ paid to the Defence lawyers for years of work– then About ½ kilo carrots, 1 large tart apple such Slice some carrots and boil them in slightly salted not only the accused, but their lawyers, would be in an embarrassed financial as Granny Smith or Gravenstein, 1 stick celery, water for about 8-10 minutes or until 75% done. position. all grated; A handful of dates and 2 sprigs parsley Drain immediately and toss with butter, then Did Defence lawyers (and the accused) want the deal made in order to get the and cilantro, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon, 1 Tbsp add: accused out of the courtroom? honey, A little olive oil, A sprinkle of orange a slosh of orange juice and a teaspoon of That opens another question which—in pursuit of answers—must be asked. Why flower water, Black pepper, cumin and cayenne cornstarch. Mix to dissolve the starch, return to did the Attorney General agree—though a plea of guilty by the accused has been to taste the heat and cook for 5 minutes until it glistens, made —to pay their costs? That question cannot be avoided. Combine everything in a large bowl and mix well. stirring regularly. Or: Was it because the Attorney General (that is to say the cabinet of Gordon Cover and allow to macerate at room a slosh of white wine, a pinch of sugar and a Campbell) was willing to pay to end the trial, to have the accused ‘out the door’ temperature for at least an hour while you generous dusting of cinnamon. Cook as above. because, giving testimony later, they might have heaped embarrassment on the prepare the rest of the meal. Mix again and serve For festive occasions glaze with Kahlua or Campbell government? Was it to prevent many of the coming Crown Witnesses in a wooden bowl. This dish has a kaleidoscope Southern Comfort. I like to add half the liquor from being shredded under cross-examination? Was it to cut off questions about of flavours so serve it with something simple like plus cornstarch and make a stiff glaze first, Then the wrongful appointment of the Special Prosecutor and refusal of the presiding lemon sole or baked potato. dilute with the rest of the liquor so you do not judge to act in the matter? Did the Attorney General (which is to say the cabinet of Carrot Soup: have to boil it. Serve immediately. Gordon Campbell) have many, many unsavoury reasons to pay the costs of the Prep & cooking time about 40 mins, Serves 4 accused in the BC Rail Scandal criminal trial? Carrot halwa: Questions spring up like weeds in the spacious inner courtyard of The Law 2 tbsp butter, 1 onion and ½ kilo carrots, Prep time about 10 minutes, Serves 4 Courts, under the immense glass roof erected by Arthur Erickson to symbolize the chopped; a dusting of flour; 1 litre chicken stock ½ cup ghee (or melted butter); ¼ cup openness and transparency of the search for justice in British Columbia. Among (duck stock if you can get it); salt, bay leaf, thyme, semolina or wheat flour; ½ –1 cup raw sugar; ½ the weeds lies the bloated and rotting body of Justice, the blindfold torn from her parsley, sugar, black pepper to taste; 1 cup heavy cup ricotta cheese, 1 cup grated carrots; At least face, her scales smashed and in pieces beside her—while the vultures (all cream ½ cup of (chopped almonds, pistachios, seedless recognizable, all with names we know) circle and circle overhead. Fry the onions in the butter until transparent, raisins), Cardamom and salt to taste Robin Mathews is a poet, academic, and political activist. He lives in Vancouver add the carrots and cook for 15 minutes until Heat the ghee, stir in the semolina and cook and on Saturna Island. He has taught at the University of Alberta, Carleton tender. Add the flour and stir well, add the stock, gently until it begins to turn golden. Add the University, and Simon Fraser University. His books include The Struggle for herbs & spices, stir and cook for another 10 sugar and stir again. Cook and add a little water Canadian Universities, Treason of the Intellectuals, The Death of Socialism, and minutes. Blend until smooth and adjust the to make a syrup. Add the remaining ingredients Being Canadian in Dirty Imperialist Times. flavours to taste. Serve in bowls with a swirl of and cook gently stirring frequently for 10 Mathews has attended much of the Basi-Virk trial, even when the mainstream heavy cream and a sprinkling of chives. Goes well minutes. Serve hot with strong black coffee. Or press has virtually ignored it. He was refused accreditation to the court by a with hot biscuits and a glass of sherry. leave until cool and serve at room temperature committee of four CanWest employees, on the grounds that he was ‘not a working For variety substitute orange juice for some of with a little heavy cream or ice cream. 0 journalist’. You judge. 0 Page 16, ISLAND TIDES, Oct 282010 Commentary by Elizabeth May How we lost to Portugal for the UN Security Council seat —and why or the first time in the history of the in Africa see the Canadian flag in relief United Nations, the member nations supplies. Fof the world community did not The Harper government’s unquestioning support Canada’s bid to be on the Security support of Israel has included remaining Council. Once a decade since the 1940s, silent about the 2006 bombing by the Israeli Canada has joined the permanent members forces of a UN observer post on the Lebanon of UN Security Council for a two year term. border. Our silence was even more This year, we lost to Portugal. astonishing given that a Canadian working This is a bit of a reality check on the for the UN, Major Paeta Hess-von uncomfortable (to my ears, at least) Kruedener, was killed. jingoism of 2010. The new year dawned In June 2008, when the UN called an with media bravado about the upcoming emergency meeting on the food crisis, Olympics. The Globe and Mail front page Canada sent no one. When other countries used super-sized print to proclaim Canada dispatched ministers and some sent prime had a new attitude of self-confidence, of ministers to Rome (where the Food and ‘take no prisoners’—‘a swagger, even.’ Prime Agriculture Organization is based), Canada Minister Stephen Harper claimed he had let our Ambassador to Italy sit there without brought Canada ‘back’ on the world stage. instructions, speaking volumes about The G-8 and G-20 were designed to serve a Canada’s concern for the world’s poor and communications strategy in which our hungry. At the recent meeting on the food Prime Minister stood side by side with crisis, once again, we were unrepresented. world leaders. The pursuit of Bush-like policies on The vote at the UN makes it clear that maternal and child health also lost us world leadership is not built from photo ops. friends. The decision to deny any funding What may work for domestic political spin to legal and safe abortions in the package fails miserably in the complex world of negotiated in Toronto sent a bad message. international relations. The fact that our pledge over five years was The truth is that Canada’s reputation in the same amount we spent on security for the world has suffered. It has been obvious the weekend didn’t help. for years that respect for Canada was on the And, of course, the Harper government’s wane. In attending international gatherings decision to repudiate a legally binding and negotiations since 2006, people from international treaty on climate has harmed around the world have asked me ‘what has our reputation hugely. I doubt any low-lying happened to Canada?’ They asked in tones island state voted for Canada. For them, the of concern and sadness, as though an old urgent security crisis is rising sea levels. Photo: Anita McCamley friend had died. Countries arguing for meaningful climate Mayne Island’s Georgina Point Lighthouse in autumn fog. There are many contributing factors, but action see Canada as a rogue state, the only they are all due to the Harper government country to have ratified Kyoto and walked led to the recent tag line in The Economist government record, Canada no longer actions. It has displayed contempt for the away from its commitments. magazine, reporting on Canada’s failure to deserved the seat. Of course, governments United Nations itself while avoiding It may sound too strong to claim that the win a Security Council seat: ‘Better at around the world were unlikely to have responsibility on issues from food aid, Harper government has displayed doughnuts than diplomacy.’ heard about Ignatieff’s comments. If they human rights, climate, abortion, Africa, contempt for the UN itself, but the fact that I remember once, a long time ago, when had, it is unlikely they would have any more peace-keeping and the Mid-East. after four-and-a-half years, the Prime I was at Sierra Club, speaking to a effect than the desperate distribution of For example: twice in the last three years, Minister’s first speech to the General Conservative MP. I won’t use his or her maple syrup by Canadian diplomats on the the Harper government has refused Assembly was this fall, and in a blatant name. I wouldn’t want her (or him) to feel morning of the vote. PM Harper then claimed requests that we send three peace-keepers attempt to secure a seat on the Security the PM’s wrath. that Canada stood on principle and that the to assist the UN mission in the Democratic Council, speaks volumes. Every September, At that time, Stephen Harper was Leader vote amounted to a ‘popularity contest.’ Republic of the Congo. In fact, having the General Assembly session begins with of the Opposition and I was pushing for any We have fallen so far, so fast. Where once invented peace-keeping and once been the addresses from heads of government. PM kind of commitment that, in power, the Lester Pearson won the Nobel Peace Prize, world’s Nº1 contributor to peace-keeping, Stephen Harper has gone to New York, met Conservatives would reduce Greenhouse where once a Canadian Ambassador to the we are now 56th. privately with some leaders and then left gases. The answer stayed with me. UN, Paul Heinbecker, worked so effectively It has not gone unnoticed that Canada is without giving a speech. Last fall, with Regardless of how achievable Kyoto would for the International Criminal Court that the the only country to leave one of its citizens, critical discussions to prepare for the be, this MP saw no chance of the Bush Administration tried to have him fired, a child soldier, at Guantanamo Bay. Copenhagen climate negotiations, the Conservatives being able to support action, where once Canada’s prestige in the world This government has cut back Prime Minister pointedly left New York for because ‘Stephen will always see Kyoto as was a function of the heavy lifting we did development assistance and fewer countries a photo op at Tim Horton’s. This incident one of those UN things.’ globally on issue after issue, we now cannot In the wake of the Security Council vote, muster the votes to win a seat when the a disturbing number of journalists and competition is Portugal. Book an appointment for a complimentary hearing editorial opinion have attacked the United As a country, Canada is still loved in the screening with a Connect Hearing Professional. Nations, instead of admitting, as former UN world. It is not about popularity. 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