BC United Leader Kevin Falcon in response to the NDP government’s decision to reverse course with its amendments to the Land Act said on Wednesday: “From the very beginning, BC United has relentlessly opposed the NDP’s flawed and dangerous changes to the Land Act and today’s ‘pause’ is a direct result of the unwavering dedication of stakeholders, the people of British Columbia, and the proactive efforts of our BC United Caucus.”

Falcon added: “The NDP government’s attempt to bypass public engagement and scrutiny with this rushed consultation process should raise concerns among all British Columbians.”

He warned: “However, let’s not be naïve — today’s announcement does not mark the end of the NDP’s hidden agenda, as their own statement suggests they plan to resume these changes at the next opportunity.”

Falcon said: “Our concerns are especially heightened by this government’s past actions, such as last summer’s closure of Joffre Lakes Park, which continue to raise questions about the NDP’s true intentions and underscore a pattern of unilateral decision-making we’ve come to expect from [Premier] David Eby.

“Rest assured, we will keep the pressure on David Eby and the NDP government, who have shown their cards that they will continue to pursue their extreme ideological agenda.

“BC United stands as the only party capable of preventing the NDP’s hidden agenda from resurfacing after the next election.

“Our message is crystal clear — Public Land belongs to all of us, and we will fight to keep it that way.”