FORT ST. JOHN -- The Chetwynd and Tumbler Ridge Chambers of Commerce have announced the cancellation of the All-Candidate's Forums for the upcoming provincial election.

The debates were originally scheduled for this week but will no longer happen due to lack of confirmation. Although Mike Bernier accepted the invitation, neither Larry Neufeld nor Marshall Scott-Bigsby confirmed their attendance.

Mike Bernier spoke out following the cancellation expressing disappointment.

“It’s very disappointing to hear … I think in eight elections this is the first I’ve seen it where somebody running is not willing to stand up, and say why they are running, what they stand for, or answer the tough questions," said Bernier.

The Chambers stated that they were “committed to providing an equal platform for all candidates” which cannot be done without full participation.