British Columbia to fight softwood lumber duties

2 November 2017

PREMIER John Horgan re-affirmed his commitment on Thursday to stand-up for British Columbia workers, families and communities in light of the latest development in the softwood lumber dispute.

The United States Department of Commerce has announced its final determination of duties of 20.83% to be applied to the majority of Canadian softwood lumber shipments entering the U.S.

The final countervailing duty rate is 14.25% (a decrease from the preliminary rate 19.88%) and the final anti-dumping duty rate is 6.58% (a decrease from the preliminary rate 6.87%).

“We will continue to fight for the 60,000 British Columbians who depend on forestry,” said Horgan. “The forest sector is an integral part of B.C.’s sustainable economy, and we will make sure workers, families and communities have the support they need to mitigate the impact of these duties. The reduction in rates by the U.S. Department of Commerce further indicates the strength of our appeal case and strengthens our resolve to fight for B.C.”

About half of Canada’s softwood lumber exports to the United States originate from British Columbia, and the United States is British Columbia’s largest market for softwood lumber products. Over the past year, high lumber prices have helped to mitigate the impact of the softwood lumber duties on B.C. companies.

“This trade action is being driven by the protectionist United States lumber lobby, whose sole purpose is to constrain imports of high-quality Canadian lumber and to drive up lumber prices for their own benefit,” said Susan Yurkovich, President of the BC Lumber Trade Council. “This trade action ultimately punishes American consumers who are now paying higher prices for Canadian lumber when they buy, build or renovate their homes.”

“The U.S. continues to attack its closest friend, neighbour and ally while domestically the U.S. lumber coalition continues to put the interest of its members ahead of what is good for the American economy and American consumers,” said Bruce Ralston, Minister of Jobs, Trade and Technology. “The U.S. lumber industry cannot produce enough lumber to meet U.S. demand. A reliable source of softwood lumber products from B.C. and Canada will benefit the U.S. housing industry and American home-buyers.”

British Columbia will be supporting the federal government in appealing the U.S. Department of Commerce’s findings. The appeals cannot be filed until after the U.S. International Trade Commission issues its determination in December.

“The dispute with the U.S. highlights the need to grow other markets for B.C. wood products. To that end, I’m leading a forestry sector trade mission with over 35 senior forestry executives to China and Japan later this month. This mission builds on previous work done to grow these important markets,” said Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development Minister Doug Donaldson. “As well, we’re also committed to expanding our innovative wood products sector and developing public sector procurement policies that prioritize the use of B.C. wood.”

British Columbia’s forest sector is an integral part of a sustainable economy. In 2016, the B.C. forest sector supported 60,000 direct jobs and one in four manufacturing jobs. The B.C. government is committed to working with communities and industry to create more B.C. jobs from every tree harvested in B.C.

BC Liberals’ Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations critic John Rustad in a statement said: “We are disappointed with the news today that Canada and U.S were unable to reach a deal regarding softwood lumber duties. We have always supported fair and open trade with the United States and it is unfair and unwarranted that the U.S Lumber Coalition continues to put their financial interests over the interests of the millions of people this affects.

“We support taking legal action to defend our lumber industry and we will do whatever we can to protect and support the jobs and economy in British Columbia that depend on the forestry industry. It’s unfortunate that the Premier has been misleading in his previous comments on this file, giving people hope that an easy deal was imminent and that a quick trip to Washington was all it would take to settle this once and for all.

“B.C. represents more than 50 per cent of Canadian softwood exports and we need to reassert ourselves as the true leader on this issue. The BC Liberals remain committed to fighting for our province’s forestry industry, jobs and international reputation as a world-leader in international trade.”

MSP Task Force to advise on eliminating premiums

2 November 2017

Finance Minister Carole James met with Prof. Lindsay Tedds on Thursday.

THE Province has established a task force of experts to advise the government on eliminating Medical Services Plan (MSP) premiums within four years, Finance Minister Carole James announced on Thursday.

“People know that MSP premiums are unfair and place significant burden on British Columbian families. Today, we are initiating a process that will eliminate these regressive fees,” James said. “By engaging a panel of respected experts in economics, law and public policy, we will ensure the path we take is fiscally responsible, fair and evidence-based.”

The MSP Task Force will examine the best approach to replacing the revenue from eliminating MSP premiums. Its final report is due to government by March 31, 2018. The task force’s work will include an opportunity for British Columbians, businesses, academics and other stakeholders to express their views. People are encouraged to bring their ideas to this consultation process at: engage.gov.bc.ca/msptaskforce/

Prof. Lindsay Tedds has been appointed as chair of the task force. Tedds is an associate professor in the school of public administration at the University of Victoria. She is a renowned expert in applied economic research and policy analysis, with a particular focus on the design and implementation of tax policy. Paul Ramsey and Prof. David Duff join Tedds on the task force.

The Budget 2017 Update announced the government’s plans to cut MSP premiums by 50%, effective January 1, 2018. This reduction will save individuals up to $450 per year, and families up to $900 per year. The budget update also raised the income threshold below which households are fully exempt from MSP premiums by $2,000.

This means senior couples with a net income up to $35,000 will pay no premiums in 2018. Single parents with two children and a net income up to $32,000 will pay no premiums.

B.C. government to participate in National Energy Board hearing

2 November 2017

THE provincial government will appear before the National Energy Board (NEB) on constitutional issues relating to Trans Mountain work at the Burnaby and Westridge marine terminals.

Trans Mountain is asking the NEB to approve commencement of terminal work, notwithstanding that Trans Mountain has not obtained preliminary plan approvals under Burnaby’s zoning bylaw or a tree-cutting permit under Burnaby’s tree bylaw, as currently required by conditions on federal approvals of the project.

“While this is a direct matter between the company and the City of Burnaby, the constitutional issues raised may result in restricting B.C.’s involvement in defending provincial interests in the future,” said Attorney General David Eby. “That is why we have advised the NEB that the Province of B.C. will be participating in this hearing.”

Thomas Berger on behalf of the government, has asked the NEB to dismiss outright Trans Mountain’s suggestion of abridged timelines for future applications by Trans Mountain to challenge decisions of municipalities and the Province in relation to permits for the project. This position is taken to ensure the Province has adequate opportunity to defend its decisions in the future.

“We have been clear and consistent that we will use every tool available to defend B.C.’s coast, and that is what we’re doing,” said Environment and Climate Change Strategy Minister George Heyman. “Our first step was to appear as interveners in the Federal Court of Appeal hearing. We’ve also passed initial regulations to increase responsibility, transparency and accountability for those who move potentially dangerous liquid petroleum products through our province. We will continue to explore other legal ways to defend the interests of British Columbians against this damaging project.”

A date for the NEB hearing has not yet been set.

George Massey crossing technical review underway

1 November 2017

THE Province of B.C. has hired professional engineer Stan Cowdell to lead the independent technical review of the George Massey Tunnel crossing.

The purpose of this technical review is to find a solution to safety and congestion issues faced by commuters, commercial drivers and first responders at the tunnel.

Cowdell is president of Westmar Project Advisors Inc., and has years of experience as an engineering consultant for public infrastructure projects. Cowdell’s firm is leading the review, with the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure also recruiting additional expertise as needed to support his work in the fields of geotechnical, tunnel, bridge and road construction, traffic engineering and transportation planning.

The first task of the review will be to independently undertake a technical review of the lifespan, safety and seismic vulnerability and current congestion of the existing tunnel. As well, Cowdell will review the technical assumptions and analysis for the tunnel and bridge options. As part of this, he will review the technical information already produced for the project and challenge or verify the assumptions made out of that work. This assessment may identify the need for further technical work.

As the independent technical review proceeds, the Province will continue to engage with the Metro Vancouver mayors to ensure that any plan for this corridor reflects their ideas and fits into the overall vision for the region.

The review will help the B.C. government choose a solution to the safety and congestion issues at the tunnel that is best for the region and the province, reflects the views and vision of Metro Vancouver, and gets the best value for public money. A report on the independent technical review is expected in spring 2018.

Based on the analysis, the Province will determine next steps to address safety and congestion along the Highway 99 corridor.

Document shipping fraud targets Chinese community

1 November 2017

THE Chinese community appears to be the target of a new fraud in the Metro Vancouver area, warns the British Columbia RCMP.
Fraudsters are pretending to represent DHL, an international shipping and logistics provider popular in China, claiming a package has been intercepted by Chinese authorities that contains personal documents, such as passports or credit cards. Victims of the fraud are typically told their personal information has been compromised. This information is conveyed to them in Mandarin via an automated call, which prompts them to speak with a person who claims to be a DHL employee, or a law enforcement representative.
The apparent “employee” sometimes tells the victim that their personal information has been compromised, and then asks for further personal information as part of the scam. In other versions of the scam, the victim is told by the alleged law enforcement officer, that their credit card has been intercepted, and used as part of criminal offences overseas. Victims are asked to provide money and other personal information to clear themselves of the investigation.
“If you receive one of these automated calls, our best advice is to simply hang up if you feel it is suspicious,” says Staff-Sgt. Annie Linteau, spokesperson for the BC RCMP. If you do end up following prompts to talk to a live person – do not provide any personal information.”
“DHL takes protecting our customers and their sensitive information seriously. We encourage Canadian citizens to be aware of potential fraudulent behavior by malicious parties using the DHL brand and contacting our customer service team immediately,” says Andrew Williams, CEO of DHL Express Canada.
If you have been victimized by such a scam, the RCMP recommend that you contact your local police agency along with the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. For more information on how to spot frauds, go to BC RCMP and the Better Business Bureau websites.

Vancouver Police issue warning after sexual assault in Yaletown

1 November 2017

THE Vancouver Police Department are warning the public after a woman in her 30s was sexually assaulted early Wednesday morning in Yaletown. Officers believe the suspect ran past witnesses as he fled, and investigators would like to speak with them.

Just after 3 a.m., the woman was walking south on Cambie Street near Expo Boulevard, when she was approached by a man who threw her to ground and sexually assaulted her. A passing driver wasn’t sure what was happening and pulled over, which scared off the suspect, and police were called.

Based on the information collected, investigators believe another person walking on the sidewalk may have seen the suspect as he fled eastbound on Expo Boulevard.

“This person may not even know that an assault had just occurred,” said VPD Constable Jason Doucette. “We are hoping that they see this story and contact police immediately.”

The male suspect is described as being in his late 20s to early 30s, with short black hair, a medium build, and wearing a black hoodie and a dark-coloured backpack.

Investigators from the VPD’s Sex Crimes Unit would like to hear from anyone who may have been in the area of Cambie Street and Expo Boulevard on Wednesday around 3 a.m., or anyone else who may have information about this assault. Please call 604-717-0602 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

Federal NDP statement on the anniversary of the 1984 Sikh Genocide

1 November 2017

ON Wednesday, the NDP’s Parliamentary Leader, Guy Caron, made the following statement in the House of Commons:

‘IT was not riot, it was genocide.’

Mr. Speaker, these are the words of Rajnath Singh, India’s Home Minister. Today and for the next three days, Sikh Canadians and human rights advocates will mark the 33rd anniversary of the 1984 Sikh Genocide.

Sikh men were burned alive. Women were subject to unthinkable sexual violence and children were murdered in gruesome fashion.

Many, including, former Indian Supreme Court Justice, GT Nanavati, have pointed out that state resources were instrumental in these pre-meditated killings.

I am reminded that thousands of Canadians live with this pain as survivors and bearers of intergenerational trauma.

Both the Delhi Assembly and the Ontario Legislature have recognized these atrocities as genocide.

I stand in this place in hopes that someday soon, the House of Commons and this government will do the same.

The path to reconciliation will not be easy, but for the victims and survivors, today we remember.

Liberal Government has failed to develop sound immigration policy: Conservatives

1 November 2017

CONSERVATIVE MP Michelle Rempel, Shadow Minister for Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, in response to the tabling of the 2018 Immigration Levels Plans, said in a statement on Wednesday: “The success of Canada’s economy has, and will continue to depend on a skilled and educated workforce, and immigration is a vital component of this. However, one thing is increasingly clear and it is that the Trudeau government has overpromised and under delivered on the immigration file.

“Whether it’s the backlog at the Immigration and Refugee Board, lack of mental health services for Yazidi women, or wait times for permanent residency for caregivers, the Liberals continue to show a lack of leadership and an inability to manage our immigration system in a way that’s fair, compassionate, and safe.

“While the Liberal government claims that they will focus on economic immigration in 2018, it remains to be seen how they can be successful when they have so far failed to develop a sound strategy to ensure immigrants help fill labour gaps in certain sectors and in remote and less populated parts of the country.

“It’s about people, not numbers. The Liberal government needs to stop using taxpayer dollars, feel good tweets, and photo ops as metrics for success in Canada’s immigration system. Instead, they must present a plan that brings Canada’s immigration system back to order by stopping illegal immigration, and ensuring integration into the Canadian economy and pluralistic society through language proficiency, mental health support plans and employability.”

Vancouver Police’s Victim Services Unit receives international award for leadership

1 November 2017

THE Vancouver Police Victim Services Unit has won an international award in recognition of their significant service to victims and their families.

The 2017 Leadership in Victim Services award, given by the International Association of Chiefs of Police, recognizes law enforcement agencies that demonstrate excellence in providing innovative service to crime victims, and an organizational philosophy of placing victims at the centre of their problem-solving efforts.

Since 1984, the Vancouver Police Victim Services Unit has been working with crime victims and witnesses. The unit was originally staffed with mostly volunteers, and now employs six full-time specialized staff and 15 casual on-call staff with degrees in the social sciences, and who have considerable experience in crisis intervention and trauma informed practices. They respond to calls 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The Unit is constantly exploring innovative ways of reaching out to serve the many diverse population groups within Vancouver, and has earned a reputation locally, nationally, and internationally, as a leader in the victim services field.

In 2016, Victim Services welcomed a trained intervention trauma dog. The handler and IK-9 have been a huge success in helping victims and witnesses cope with stress related to critical incidents. They also attend court with vulnerable clients, such as children, when they are testifying, calming them during an extremely difficult time.

This year, two members of the Unit were instrumental in forming a Civilian Critical Intervention Stress Management Team, designed to assist VPD employees affected by exposure to critical incidents in the workplace.

“We feel very fortunate to be part of a police department that places such importance on the services we provide,” says Linda Thorp, Manager of the Victim Services Unit. “Our staff work so hard trying to make difficult times a little bit easier for victims and witnesses. It’s nice to be recognized for that.”

Keeping motorists safe and goods moving on the Alex Fraser Bridge this winter

1 November 2017

Alex Fraser Bridge as viewed from the east.
Photo by Rattan Mall

STARTING early in the New Year, the Alex Fraser Bridge will be safer and more reliable, thanks to a new cable collar system that the British Columbia government will install.

“Our government is making investments that will make life easier for people and their families,” said Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Claire Trevena. “This new cable collar system will help ensure the Alex Fraser Bridge stays open – regardless of the weather – so people can get to work on time.”

This cable collar system is manufactured and designed in British Columbia and is similar to the one currently used to clear snow and ice from the cables on the Port Mann Bridge. This system will help ensure the bridge stays open in winter weather conditions.

This system is made up of almost 3,000 collars that clear accumulations when they are released from the top of the cables. To ensure the system’s effectiveness, it will be manually operated by crews of rope access technicians who will physically load and deploy the collars as needed.

“Last winter, thousands of drivers were affected when snow and ice on the Alex Fraser Bridge’s cables forced some closures of this busy crossing. Adding a cable collar system to clear snow and ice will vastly improve the reliability of the bridge when the snow arrives,” said Delta North MLA Ravi Kahlon. “For a high-capacity bridge like the Alex Fraser, one closure is one too many, which is why we’re investing in this system.”

Three contractors, all from B.C., have successfully won the contract award to design and install the system. Valid Manufacturing Ltd. from Salmon Arm and Hercules SLR from Langley are the manufacturers of the system’s components. Eurovia B.C. from Surrey will be installing the system. The total project cost is approximately $5 million.

The new system is expected to be in place before the end of January 2018.

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