MEDIA RELEASE

For immediate release

November 15th, 2007

Opposition Rural Caucus demands government action on off-road vehicles

The Opposition Rural Caucus is calling on the government to present legislation to register and license off-road vehicles.

For years rural British Columbians have been promised legislation to manage all-terrain vehicles and snowmobiles, but despite continuing pressure from residents the government has failed to act.  Other provinces already have off-road vehicle legislation.

“All rural MLA’s are hearing the same thing on this issue,” declared Rural Caucus Chair Norm Macdonald.  “Numerous groups have stated categorically that legislation is required.

The Coalition for Licensing and Registration of Off Road Vehicles in British Columbia completed a comprehensive list of recommendations in December 2005.  The All-Terrain Vehicles Association of British Columbia, the British Columbia Cattlemen’s Association and local government leaders have all been clear in their support.

Off-road vehicle legislation will protect law abiding vehicle users ensuring that troublemakers are prosecuted.

“There is only a very short time left in this Legislative session and again it looks like this issue will be ignored,” continued Macdonald.

“Rural issues are simply not a priority for this government.  The Rural Caucus understands that we all have an interest in using our back country and grasslands appropriately and we are determined to make sure this government moves quickly to address the concerns of the ATV and snowmobile groups.”