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Constituency Office: 103, 1100 Alaska Avenue BC V1G 4V8 Toll Free: 1-855-582-3430 Phone: 250-782-3430 Fax: 250-782-6454 Province of , MLA

Legislative Assembly January 28, 2019

Dear Chair Sperling and PRRD Board members,

I want to thank you and all members of the Peace River Regional District Board for your advocacy and work being done on behalf of the Peace Region in regards to the Caribou Protection and land use issue.

I apologize I was not available when you met with Government officials at the Resource Forum in Prince George but understand they were successful meetings in bringing forward the very valid concerns for our Region.

I have continued to advocate behind the scenes in Victoria with both my colleagues and the Government decision makers to ensure they realize this is one of the most important issues facing our Region and that to date, the lack of information sharing with and consultation with local Governments and stakeholders has been unacceptable.

I am encouraged to hear there will be meetings that have been committed to by Government taking place soon in the South Peace and although this is a positive step, much more work is needed and I expect the Ministers and Government to be open and transparent with you and the public.

This issue is one that if not handled properly, could have negative ripple effects on our wildlife, back country, business and families and we all need to be working collectively to ensure the best decision is made for everyone.

Thank you again for your commitment to this issue and for our ongoing positive communication and relationship.

Sincerely

Mike Bernier, MLA Peace River South

January 31, 2019 NB-1

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cc: , MLA , Minister of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development , MLA Cariboo-Chilcotin & Chair BC Liberal Rural Caucus Scott Fraser, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation , Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy

January 31, 2019