The federal Minister responsible for Parks Canada, Catherine McKenna, will be in Osoyoos on Friday to make an announcement about the “protection of lands in the South Okanagan.”

She’ll be joined by B.C. Environment Minister George Heyman and Chief Clarence Louie of the Osoyoos Indian Band, which has led to speculation that a conservancy or national park will be announced for the region.

The creation of a national park in the South Okanagan was a part of the NDP platform during the last provincial election.

The announcement takes place at 10 a.m. Friday at Spirit Ridge.

 

***

 

BC Health Minister Adrian Dix will be touring health facilities in the South Okanagan Friday to update himself on staffing issues and planning.