After a few brief remarks to Regional District Directors, Richard Cannings MP said – let’s have some questions.
Penticton Mayor Andrew Jakubeit: What would be your strategy to help with local and regional concerns?
Answer – Each issue might be handled differently. Cannings said he has a lot of time to talk to other MP’s and Ministers on important issues. The MP said his party is “pretty close” to the Liberal position on a lot of matters and he was getting a warm reception from the government.
Area D Director Tom Siddon: Based on your background as a protector of wildlife what position would you take on opening up the old KVR bed west of Vaseux Lake in an area now protected by the Canadian Wildlife Service? Will you represent your constituents or just take the party line?
Answer – As a cyclist I want this path open so that I and others are not forced to take Hwy 97 from Ok Falls to Oliver. I will work with the CWS to find out the concerns of the wildlife experts and hopefully this pathway can open in the near future. On the party allegiance matter – each situation is different but he intends to represent the people who elected him. Cannings said no discipline has been enforced on NDP MP’s who speak for constituents even though it might rankle the party and its positions.
Area C Director Terry Schafer: A letter of support is needed and would be appreciated for the KVR trail pathways system. Can you help?
Answer – Cannings said it appears to be a sensitive issue that will take some diplomacy and he intends to work, first, with regional staff of the Wildlife Service in Vancouver.
Penticton Councillor Andre Martin: Back to the regional concerns what can you do at solving the problem of ownership and control of the Penticton Airport. And what about changes to the marijuana laws?
Answer – “I am just learning the ropes but each local concern must be investigated as to the best way of approaching it”. On the marijuana issue I have heard very little from the government but know the Liberals are favour of decriminalizing simple possession.
Osoyoos Mayor Sue McKortoff: Are you aware of the school situation in Osoyoos? She stated she told school trustees Tuesday she and her council will fight “tooth and nail” to stop school closures and she was upset that her town had been picked on as the first target for closures. McKortoff said she wouldn’t sit back and not do anything”
Answer – Cannings said he was briefed and totally aware but finds it is difficult to take on another layer of government.
Cannings well known as Dick Cannings, biologist and naturalist said after the meeting he had been challenged in his first 100 days with just about every bug going around and had a cold that affected his speaking voice even today. Cannings said it had been a challenge in getting to Ottawa, learning the rules, setting up offices but appreciated the fact that the agenda of the NDP and the Liberals was similar and much will be accomplished without rancor. He hopes his professional background can be a help in promoting a pro-environment agenda.