CHETWYND -- Mike Bernier is joining the mayors of Hudson’s Hope and Tumbler Ridge in voicing concerns over the relocation of the Northern Initial Fire Attack Crew from Chetwynd to Dawson Creek.
In February 8th letters addressed to B.C.’s Minister of Forests, both Hudson’s Hope and Tumbler Ridge condemned the move saying it could double response times in the community and surrounding districts.
The letters have since gone unaddressed, prompting Mike Bernier to write one of his own.
He’s requesting Minister Ralston review the letters and revisit the decision.
“All available climate projections indicate that the threat to our communities posed by wildfires will continue to increase for the foreseeable future,” wrote Bernier.
The MLA for Peace River South says the move will lead to an increase in road travel time for crews to reach effected wildfire areas, directly impacting thousands of people and potentially causing millions in infrastructure damage.
He adds the move was made without any consultation with stakeholders.
MLA Dan Davies also weighing in, telling CJDC TV that centralizing services now is not the best move given the significant threat of wildfires this season.
He says the relocation is another example of the provincial government making sweeping changes without engaging with local communities.
