Norm Macdonald MLA                                Columbia River – Revelstoke

MEDIA RELEASE

For immediate release

October 11th, 2007

Keep your promise for a full-time conservation officer, Macdonald demands

“The Liberal government’s latest announcement that they are ‘pursuing employing a seasonal conservation officer for an eight month term starting in the spring of 2008, to be based in Golden’ simply isn’t good enough,” said the MLA for Columbia River – Revelstoke Norm Macdonald in reference to a letter received from the Minister of Environment dated October 1st, 2007.

Before the BC Liberals took power, the Golden area was well served by two permanent full-time conservation officers. Golden and area residents responded angrily to the Liberal cuts.  The Liberals responded by making an election promise in 2005 to return a conservation officer to Golden. When the Liberal candidate did not win the election, the Liberals reneged on their promise.

“I have spoken repeatedly with the Minister about the need for a full time officer. The Ministry has a responsibility to fulfill its previous commitment to this community.

“This is a half measure that has been discussed for two and a half years since the 2005 election and the residents of Golden and area do not accept this as adequate.”

Macdonald continues to encourage residents to write to the Minister of Environment indicating the need for a full time, permanent conservation officer in Golden.

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