#1. ARYA SAMAJ SOCIETY OF B.C. CELEBRATES OPENING OF THEIR CENTRE
The Arya Samaj Society of British Columbia held the Shubh Udghaatan Samaaroh (opening ceremony) of its recently purchased centre at 6884 Jubilee Avenue, Burnaby, on Saturday, July 5 with much jubilation. A souvenir magazine was also published to commemorate the occasion.
Following dinner, the program, emceed by Shushma Datt of IT Productions Ltd., was opened with prayer led by Pundit Prahalad Arya Ji and Jhanda Gaan – glorification of the Aum Flag.
The guest list included Councillors Garth Evans, Gary Begin and Sav Dhaliwal (Acting Mayor) of the City of Burnaby together with the John Nuraney, MLA for Burnaby-Willingdon, R. K. Sharma, Consul of India, Girish Khosla, Arya Pathik, representing the Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of North America and Kewal Khosla, one of the pioneers of the Arya Samaj Society of British Columbia.
Congratulatory messages were delivered by Garth Evans, R.K. Sharma, Girish Khosla and Nuraney, who also presented a framed message from Attorney General Wally Oppal.
Also present were Dr. Jagessar Das, President of the Kabir Association of Canada, and his wife Urmila, and Dr. Basant Swann from Fiji.
Dance performances were presented by Shivani Kaintura, the Indo-Canadian Dance Group, the Manna Mistry Dance Group and the Punjab Cultural and Arts Centre.
The highlight of the evening were the long-time service recognitions. Pundit Prahalad Arya Ji was accorded the Arya Ratna, the highest order for meritorious service by any individual in the field of Arya Samaj. In appreciation of their generous financial support, Madhu and Hari Varshney were presented with a plaque. Plaques were also presented to Kirti Swann, Secretary, Pushp Kant Singh, former treasurer, and Prem and Yogesh Cheta in recognition of their long and dedicated service to the Arya Samaj Society of British Columbia.
The members of the Arya Samaj Society of British Columbia led by Madhu Varshney, Vice-President of the Society and Chair of the Udghaatan Samaaroh Committee, acknowledged and thanked all those who contributed in any way in making this event a success. A great time was had by all who attended.
(Contributed)
#2. SHRI GURU RAVIDASS SABHA CAN RESTRICT MEMBERSHIP, SAYS TRIBUNAL
Bill Basra, President of Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha, Vancouver, is hailing a recent decision of the B.C. Human Rights Tribunal that says his organization has a right to restrict membership as “a very important decision for the Dalit community to organize and develop itself.”
Gurshinder Sahota and Sohan Shergill filed a complaint with the tribunal alleging that Vancouver’s Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha Temple, had “discriminated against them in the provision of an accommodation, service, or facility customarily available to the public because of their ancestry, race and religion, contrary to s. 8 of the Human Rights Code.”
The complainants filed their complaint under s. 8 of the Code which provides: (1) A person must not, without a bona fide and reasonable justification, (a) deny to a person or class of persons any accommodation, service or facility customarily available to the public, or (b) discriminate against a person or class of persons regarding any accommodation, service or facility customarily available to the public because of the race, colour, ancestry, place of origin, religion, marital status, family status, physical or mental disability, sex or sexual orientation of that person or class of persons.”
The tribunal noted that the organization was “a non-profit religious and cultural organization” and that “one of the Sabha’s primary purposes is the promotion of the interests and welfare of persons in the Ravidassia community which is a group characterized by a common race, religion, ancestry and place of origin. In granting sole preference to Ravidassia or members of the Chamar caste to be members of the Sabha, it is not thereby contravening the Code.”
You can read the full judgment at: http://www.bchrt.gov.bc.ca/decisions/2008/pdf/july/269_Sahota_and_Shergill_v_Shri_Guru_Ravidass_Sabha_Temple_2008_BCHRT_269.pdf
#3. CANADA CONDEMNS SUICIDE BOMBING IN KABUL
Foreign Affairs Minister David Emerson this week issued the following statement condemning the suicide bomb attack outside the Indian Embassy in Kabul, Afghanistan:
“Canada strongly condemns the suicide bombing that took place today outside the Indian Embassy. We offer our profound sympathies to the families and friends of those killed in the attack and wish a speedy recovery to those injured.
“There is no justification for this vicious attack. It is the desperate act of those who wish to undermine Afghan stability by indiscriminately killing innocent civilians, including women and children.
“Previous attacks have not broken the will of Afghans or of the international community. We are heartened by India’s determined response to continue meeting its substantial commitment to Afghanistan. India will continue to be an important partner in international efforts to rebuild the country.
“Canada remains committed to continuing our work with the Afghan government, the Afghan people and the international community to build a more stable Afghanistan.”
#4. YORK UNIVERSITY’S HEALTH EDUCATION, RESEARCH PARTNERSHIP IN INDIA
York University launched an initiative with the Rajasthan University of Health Sciences on Wednesday to develop joint teaching and research projects designed to give health industry professionals and nurses the high quality skills they need to work in health care in both India and Canada.
Representatives of York’s Faculty of Health and the Rajasthan University of Health Sciences signed a memorandum of understanding that will encourage joint projects and exchange of faculty, students and staff between the two institutions for at least five years.
The Michener Institute for Applied Health Sciences also signed a memorandum of understanding, committing to academic collaboration with the Indian university, and the Alpha Corporate Group signed a memorandum of understanding with the Rajasthan Health Ministry to establish a state-of-the art medical laboratory centre.
The joint project, a Canadian Centre of Excellence in Healthcare in Jaipur, is expected not only to provide excellent health services, but offer trainees an interdisciplinary education by professionals from several faculties. York’s initial goal will be to develop joint programs in health leadership, nursing and related sciences, part of its focus on global health, said Harvey Skinner, dean of the Faculty of Health at York, who will coordinate activities under the memorandum of understanding.
#5. KITAB MELA ATTRACTS LOVERS OF PUNJABI LITERATURE
Satish Gulati of Chetna Publishing House of Ludhiana arranged a book fair in Surrey with support of local writers Jarnail Singh Sekhon, Dr.Darshan Gill and Nadeem in which a large number of books, mostly of Chetna Prakashan, were displayed. Several lovers of Punjabi literature enjoyed the mela and purchased books. A function was organized to launch the new books on July 5 at Newton Public Library in Surrey. Dr. Sadhu Singh conducted the ceremony.
The following books were released: Dr .Darshan Gill’s “Nazam Jaagdi Hai Nazmen” and “Milkhanwale,” Nadeem’s “Chhutti Maut,” Jarnail Singh Sekhon’s “Duniya Kaisi Huyee” and “Bhagoda,” Nakshtra Singh Brar’s “Kedi RutteAaya,” Dr.Sadhu Singh Dhami’s “Paraya Dhan” and “Malooka”, Mahendra Singh Sumal’s poems: “Bhagat Singh Ki Soch Valyo”, Devendar Kaur Johal’s poems: “Kaatthdian Guddiyan” and Punjabi Lekhak Manch’s edited biography of Novelkaar Keshar Singh.
“People are showing more interest in reading material here than in India. In Vancouver alone more books of Punjabi literature and weekly newspapers are produced than in any one city of Punjab,” said Satish Gulati.
(Contributed)
#6. VANCOUVER FORUM ON NEPAL ADOPTS RESOLUTIONS
An open forum on "Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal: Challenges and Opportunities" organized by the Canadian Network for Democratic Nepal (CNDN) and South Asian Network for Secularism and Democracy (SANSAD) was held recently in Vancouver.
The panelists were Dr. Ramjee Parajulee, Department of Political Science, Simon Fraser University, Derrick O'Keefe, Co-Chair, StopWar.ca, and Dr. Hari Sharma, Professor Emeritus at SFU and President of SANSAD.
Ramjee Parajulee, a member of the Nepali diaspora, hailed the formation of the Constituent Assembly, the end of the Monarchy and the departure of the King from the Palace on June 10. He lamented the fact that the political parties that had united in bringing about the Constituent Assembly were now engaged in blaming each other and in political brinkmanship. They were focused on sectarian and not national interest; and were fostering a culture of violence, rooted in the feudal traditions. If the parties could not bring the unity back and form a consensus government, Dr. Parajulee said, a historical opportunity to take Nepal on the path of democracy and economic development could be lost.
Derrick O'Keefe brought the global anti-imperialist perspective to view the developments in Nepal, and the challenges its people face. He cited many examples of how international corporate capital and countries like the USA and Canada, including outfits like the Canadian International Development Agency, interfere in the internal affairs of countries that try to move toward independent economic development and political sovereignty. The gains Nepali people have made so far are important not only for them, but also for the people around the world, and it was important that these gains were not thwarted by the forces of reaction and imperialism.
Hari Sharma viewed the current situation in Nepal in the larger context of communist movements and National Liberation Wars. The abolition of the monarchy and the electoral victory in the Constituent Assembly could not have occurred had there not been the highly successful 10-year long protracted people's war and the agrarian revolution in the countryside, a process which also won the support of large sections of the urban population.
He said that the last two years, after the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) changed its course, have been tumultuous. The imperialist forces, headed by the USA, and the ruling establishment in India, as well as the Monarchist-cum-Hindutava forces in Nepal, created one barrier after another for the due process to unfold. Even though the much-delayed elections to the Constituent Assembly have already given a leading edge to the Maoists, every effort is being made to prevent the government to be formed thus preventing the Maoists to be in the leading position. The question of the integration of the Maoist Army with the Nepali Army, and who would become the president of the republic and thus control the armed forces, has been a major point of contention.
He also noted that the three organizations of the Madhesi people in the Terai region (an area which has heavy penetration of India-based Hindutava forces) have been stirring agitation and disrupting the functioning of the Constituent Assembly. Although the people of Terai region have some legitimate concerns about the future political dispensation, the two demands they are agitating about - autonomous Madhesh province for the entire Terai region, and "group entry" of the Madhesis into Nepal Army - are contrary to the Republican Constitutional framework already adopted, and are clearly aimed to disrupt the process of revolutionary transformation Nepal has been going through. The outcome of the present stalemate is still hanging in air.
The three presentations were followed by a productive discussion at the end of which the house-full meeting at Cafe Kathmandu adopted the following resolutions:
1. We celebrate the victory and achievement of the Nepali people in abolishing the monarchy and establishing the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal.
2. We appreciate the many difficulties that besiege the Nepali people as they pass through the transition from monarchic and feudal rule to the life of a modern constitutional democracy and express our sympathy for their suffering.
3. We recognize the most urgent task of the moment to be the formation of a government and urge the political parties to work in the national interest to form this government and establish the rule of law.
4. We are aware of the foreign forces engaged in destabilizing and sabotaging the national work of forming a government and integrating the army and we demand that they keep their hands off Nepal to let the people decide their future.
5. We deplore the fact that the CPN (Maoist) continues to remain tagged as a "terrorist" organization by the US government; and express our hope that the democratic people of Nepal, along with people all over the world, will succeed in their just demand that this "terrorist' listing be removed.
6. We are aware of the vulnerability of Nepal to the exploitative agenda of international capital, and demand from the Government of Canada, and all other international agencies, that all developmental aid to Nepal is geared toward empowerment of people through participatory principles involving masses at the grassroots level.
#7. SUE HAMMELL SLAMS GOVERNMENT ON TRANSLINK
Sue Hammell, the New Democrat MLA for Surrey-Green Timbers and Assistant Deputy Speaker, said in a statement this week:
“The Campbell government’s new CEO for Translink, freshly recruited from the United States, says he needs time to decide what his top priorities will be.
“I hope CEO Tom Prendergast doesn’t take too long to decide, because the problems at Translink are straightforward but urgent. As any one of my constituents could tell him, fares are too expensive, we desperately need expanded service, and we need better SkyTrain security.
“The problem is getting worse as fuel prices rise and Campbell’s new fuel tax piles on. More people would love to make the shift to transit, but we have the highest fares in the country, the buses are overflowing, passengers get left behind at peak hours, and the hours of SkyTrain are too short. “Furthermore, many people do not feel secure when they take SkyTrain because we don’t have live security at all the stations.
“If Gordon Campbell were serious about fighting climate change and fixing Surrey’s terrible traffic congestion, he would invest properly to expand transit and make it secure and affordable.
“In short, Mr. Prendergast’s top priority should be press Gordon Campbell to make transit a top priority. I wish him all the best.”
#8. LIBERALS: PRIME MINISTER MUST DEMAND REPATRIATION FOR KHADR
Prime Minister Stephen Harper must demand the United States government repatriate Guantanamo Bay detainee Omar Khadr to Canada to ensure his rights as a Canadian citizen are protected, Liberal Foreign Affairs Critic Bob Rae said on Friday.
"Mr. Harper is insisting he has no choice but to let Mr. Khadr's case work its was through the military legal system at Guantanamo Bay, but a host of legal experts have come out to say this is clearly not the case," said Rae. "Mr. Khadr is the only Western citizen left in Guantanamo Bay who has not been repatriated to his country of origin. How it is possible that British and Australian citizens are able to face justice in their home countries and not Mr. Khadr?"
Khadr, who has been held in the controversial Guantanamo Bay detention facility since November 2002 for suspicion of war crimes in Afghanistan, is currently facing trial before the U.S. Military Commission. Liberals have been urging the government for over a year to bring Khadr back to Canada to ensure his Charter rights as a Canadian citizen are respected.
"Omar Khadr must receive the same level of support from his government as would any other Canadian, but Mr. Harper seems to prefer to wash his hands of this issue," said Rae. "I am concerned that the Prime Minister seems to be tolerant of the fact that a citizen of our country is being held indefinitely in a detention facility that both Republican and Democratic presidential nominees support shutting down.
"Canada cannot pick and choose when to intervene on behalf of Canadians detained abroad. Omar Khadr is a Canadian citizen and entitled to the same legal rights and due process as any other Canadian facing trial."
#9. FEDERAL GOVERNMENT MOVES TO PROTECT, STRENGTHEN CANADIAN HOUSING MARKET
The federal government this week announced adjustments to the rules for government guaranteed mortgages aimed at protecting and strengthening the Canadian housing market. The new measures include:
* Fixing the maximum amortization period for new government-backed mortgages to 35 years;
* Requiring a minimum down payment of five per cent for new government-backed mortgages;
* Establishing a consistent minimum credit score requirement; and
* Introducing new loan documentation standards.
The announcement marks a responsible and measured approach by the government to ensure Canada’s housing market remains strong and to reduce the risk of a U.S.-style housing bubble developing in Canada, according to an official press release.
The new limits are planned to take effect October 15. This would allow existing mortgage pre-approvals with the common 90-day duration to be used or expire. Certain exceptions would also be permitted after October 15. The government will work closely with all stakeholders to ensure timely and effective implementation of these measures.
As these measures relate only to new, government-backed insured mortgages, Canadians who already hold mortgages will not be affected by this announcement.
These measures will build on the strength of Canada’s housing market. According to the International Monetary Fund, the increase in house prices in Canada is based on sound economic factors such as low interest rates, rising incomes and a growing population. A recent Statistics Canada report concluded that home ownership is at record levels, with over two-thirds of Canadians owning their own home.
Mortgage arrears—overdue mortgage payments—have also remained low. In recent years, the percentage of mortgages in arrears for three months or more continues to be at low levels not seen since 1990.
#10. DOG DAYS OF SUMMER CAN BE BRUTAL FOR PETS, KIDS
With warmer temperatures in the forecast, BCAA is warning drivers of the hazardous risks to children and pets left in unattended vehicles. Each year, BCAA's Road Assist service rescues almost 300 children and pets from locked cars.
Many of BCAA's 'lock-in' calls occur when doors unexpectedly close while owners are distracted or while children playing with keys lock themselves inside.
"Although our road service personal can usually free a child or pet from a locked car within minutes of receiving a call, warmer temperatures could mean the difference between a happy rescue and a tragedy," explains BCAA's Road Assist Director, Ken Cousins. "When we receive a call notifying us that a child is locked in a car, we drop everything. We dispatch the nearest resource to get there as soon as possible."
Cars sitting in the hot summer sun act like magnifying glasses, creating intense interior heat. Interior temperatures can climb as high as 40 or 50 degrees C in just 10 to 20 minutes. Babies can become distressed in just five minutes and in less than 40 minutes, a child or pet could suffer severe dehydration or heat stroke.
To help drivers protect their precious cargo this summer, BCAA recommends:
- Never leave a child or pet alone in a car - even with the windows down.
- Check to make sure all children and pets leave the vehicle when you reach your destination. Don't overlook sleeping infants.
- Before buckling children in the car, check to make sure surfaces such as seat belt buckles aren't overly hot as they could burn a child's sensitive skin.
- Teach children not to play in cars and keep car keys out of reach and sight.
- Keep your vehicle locked at all times - even at home in the garage or driveway. This will help prevent toddlers from crawling into a car and accidentally locking themselves inside.
- When running errands, leave children with a responsible adult or use drive-through services, keeping idling to a minimum.
- Before heading off to run errands, think about whether your pet really needs to come with you, or if they would be more comfortable and safer left at home.
- If a child or pet is locked inside a vehicle, call BCAA and/or 9-1-1 in an extreme emergency.
#11. SAFE KIDS CANADA PROVIDES BOOSTER SEAT SAFETY CHECK-UPS
Parents can get a free booster seat check-up to ensure their children are buckled in correctly and safely every time they ride in a vehicle. Safe Kids Canada and the Child Passenger Safety Network of British Columbia will provide the checks at two Zellers stores in Coquitlam and Delta on the weekend of July 18 and 19.
British Columbia's new mandatory booster seat legislation took effect July 1. Children must now ride in a booster seat until they are at least 4 feet, 9 inches (145 cm) tall or nine years old. Booster seats help to protect children who no longer need a car seat but are not yet tall enough to ride safely in an adult seatbelt alone. Research shows booster seats can reduce the risk of injury by up to 60 percent.
It's important that children are buckled in safely at all stages. The booster seat check-ups are part of Kids that Click, a program provided by Safe Kids Canada and Hudson's Bay Company (Hbc) that teaches parents how to use car seats, booster seats and seat belts safely. Parents can also get a free DVD that demonstrates how to choose and install the correct seat for their child.
To celebrate BC's new law and these family events, Zellers will provide 15% off all regular priced car seats and booster seats.
Event Locations:
* July 18, 12-4 p.m., Zellers, Scottsdale Mall, 7155 120th Street, Delta.
* July 19, 12-4 p.m., Zellers, Coquitlam Centre, 2929 Barnet Highway, Coquitlam.
Unintentional injury is the leading cause of death among children and youth in Canada. Safe Kids Canada collaborates with community partners across the country to conduct research, raise awareness, educate families, and advocate for safer environments. Safe Kids Canada is the national injury prevention program of SickKids.
#12. YOUNG ADULTS CONTINUE TO RISK SKIN CANCER, SAYS SURVEY
Forty-two per cent of British Columbians aged 16-24 spend at least two hours in the sun on a typical summer day, but more than 40 per cent don't practice any form of sun protection, according to results of the National Sun Survey released this week by the Canadian Cancer Society.
The survey also found that more than a third (36%) of young adults in B.C. aged 16-24 tried to get a tan from the sun in the past year, and a third (33%) reported having a sunburn at least once during the summer months.
"From a skin cancer prevention point of view, we have work to do," the Society's manager of health promotion for B.C. and the Yukon, Sharon Storoschuk said. "Sun damage builds up over time. People who have had severe sunburn before age 18 are at higher risk of skin cancer."
According to Storoschuk, adults in B.C. and Ontario (71%) are the most compliant in Canada. But young adults here are risking skin cancer now and, later in life. Melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer, is the second most common cancer in persons aged 15-34.
"Overexposure to UV radiation from the sun or from artificial sources (such as tanning beds) is the major cause of skin cancer in Canada," she said.
"When you consider that almost half (46%) of young adults aged 16-24 in B.C. worked outdoors in June, July, or August of 2006, the health concerns really start to add up."
The survey also found that on a typical summer day, approximately 52 per cent of children in Canada, and 46 per cent of children in B.C., spend at least two hours in the sun.
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in Canada. In 2008, an estimated 73,000 Canadians (about 10,000 in B.C.) will be diagnosed with basal cell and squamous cell cancers, the most common forms of non-melanoma cancers.
An estimated 4,600 Canadians will be diagnosed with melanoma, which is less common but more likely to be fatal. In B.C., there will be about 740 cases this year and 125 deaths.
Although some sun exposure can have health benefits, such as enabling people to make vitamin D, people should avoid too much unprotected time in the sun, particularly people with light skin.
Storoschuk said most people assume using a broad spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher is the best way to avoid sun damage, when it's just one of many precautions.
The survey will provide health groups and policymakers with information to assist in developing effective programs to minimize overexposure to ultraviolet radiation.
The Canadian Cancer Society is the primary funder of the survey. The Public Health Agency of Canada (www.publichealth.gc.ca) provided additional funding.
#13. SIMON FRASER UNIVERSITY EASES ADMISSION EXAM REQUIREMENTS
Simon Fraser University has decided to ease the requirement of four provincial Grade 12 exams for admission to the university.
Beginning with fall 2009 admissions, prospective SFU students will now need to have a high-school graduation certificate and to have passed only one provincial Grade 12 exam: English 12 (or Language Arts 12, or the new English 12 First Peoples that comes into effect in September).
SFU's past practice has been to require incoming students to have their “Dogwood” graduation certificate, a pass in Grade 12 English and passes in three other Grade 12 exams.
The change was approved Monday night by the SFU Senate, the body responsible for academic governance. An easing of exam requirements was previously approved by the University of Victoria (last December) and the University of B.C. (in May).
An SFU senate committee that proposed changing SFU’s requirements said it would help SFU compete for students with such universities as Toronto, Queens, McGill, Waterloo, Dalhousie and Guelph. Those institutions all accept high-school class marks and have no provincial exams. (Only B.C. and Alberta do.)
Committee chair Bill Krane, SFU’s associate academic vice-president, said easing the SFU requirements would give prospective students more and earlier certainty about the fate of their applications to SFU, and would permit earlier decisions on scholarship awards. “Timing is often critical in attracting high-calibre students,” said Krane.
B.C. now requires for high-school graduation a pass in Grade 12 English, plus four other exam passes in a list of subjects spanning Grades 10-12. Those four passes therefore do not have to include Grade 12 exams.
B.C. high schools say fewer and fewer senior students are writing optional Grade 12 exams because an increasing number of universities, colleges and technical schools are considering only class marks only when making admission decisions.
Krane’s report to the SFU senate said: “Presently, almost all B.C. Grade 12 students admitted to SFU are given admission offers prior to writing provincial exams, based on self-reported or interim grades. Final marks are only used to revoke admission offers.
“B.C. Transfer students from the colleges and university-colleges are admitted based on their college grades. Most colleges eliminated the requirement for optional B.C.12 exams last year.
“Students from other provinces are admitted without the equivalents of B.C. Grade 12 examinations.
“B.C.12 final grades arrive in August, making it all but impossible to effectively use the grades in our present admission process.”
If a prospective student does write optional Grade 12 exams the results would be used by SFU only if they increased the student's admission average.
The 60-member SFU senate includes faculty members, students, deans, and senior administrators.
#14. B.C. PROVIDES INSURANCE SUPPORT FOR STUDENT ATHLETES
The Ministry of Education will grant B.C. School Sports (BCSS) $45,000 to provide liability insurance coverage for all volunteers at interschool sport competitions, Education Minister Shirley Bond and Healthy Living and Sport Minister Mary Polak announced this week.
“For more than 40 years, BC School Sports has been a leader in supporting extracurricular sports in the B.C. school system,” said Bond. “Thanks to the dedicated work of countless volunteers, including exceptional teacher-coaches, our schools are able to offer high quality interschool sporting events to students.”
The grant will provide liability insurance protection for all volunteers who work with teams and sports in secondary schools, and who are members of the BCSS. The BCSS provides sporting events to more than 415 member schools which serve more than 100,000 high school student athletes.
“I’d like to thank the province for their ongoing support and commitment to our activities and events,” said Raj Puri, president of the BCSS. “We’re proud to be a partner with the Ministry of Education in making our schools healthier and happier places for students.”
“BC School Sports depends on dedicated volunteers,” said Polak. “No volunteer should have to put themselves at unnecessary risk in order to serve such a meaningful role for our students.”
Statistics show that one in four B.C. schoolchildren is overweight or obese. To further promote healthy choices and lifestyles in children and youth, the Province has mandated daily physical activity for students, and has eliminated the sale of junk food in elementary schools. The government will eliminate junk food sales in secondary schools by September 2008 and has banned tobacco use on school grounds.
For more information on ActNow BC and to take the ActNow BC Healthy Living Pledge, visit www.actnowbc.ca.
#15. FURTHER SUPPORT FOR INTERNATIONAL MEDICAL GRADUATES
Government is working with internationally educated medical graduates to find ways to make the best use of their medical training and skills within the provincial health-care system, said Health Services Minister George Abbott this week.
The Ministry of Health Services has granted a $45,000 contract to the Association of International Medical Doctors of B.C. to explore employment opportunities for international medical graduates who live in the province. International medical graduates are individuals holding a medical degree from schools not accredited in Canada or the United States.
“We are working to find new and innovative ways to use the expertise and skills of international medical graduates and identify employment opportunities within the health system,” said Abbott. “Government is committed to building capacity for internationally trained medical graduates, and we need to look at doing this in creative ways – either by using a varied number of training opportunities already in place or by making adaptations to address the gaps in training.”
The goal of the project is to identify careers in health care, determine the pre-requisites and training required, recommend new training programs, and develop a listing of employment opportunities and the steps required to pursue career pathways that will enable international medical graduates to use their skills and experience in the health sector. In addition, an outreach strategy will be developed to help inform international medical graduates about career options in health care.
“We’ve expanded training in a wide spectrum of health-care professions in British Columbia, which is beginning to pay off with increased numbers of home-grown graduates,” said Murray Coell, Minister of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development. “We also welcome the skills of those with education and experience in other countries, and look forward to helping those people round out that knowledge so they can work with patients in our province.”
This work is a critical support to the Skills Connect for Immigrants – Health program, which is jointly funded by Ministry of Health Services (with Health Canada funding) and Ministry of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development. Many of these clients are international medical graduates who will face major challenges becoming physicians in British Columbia.
“AIMDBC is very pleased with the government’s forward thinking and support to our project,” said Dr. Carla Fast, president of the Association of International Medical Doctors of BC. “It is another important step in the integration of those immigrant doctors that at this point don’t have access to residency positions, but will still be able to make a great contribution to health care in British Columbia.”
In the February 2008 throne speech, government announced its intention to amend the Health Professions Act to allow health providers the opportunity to utilize their full scope of training and expertise, as well as create a new Health Professions Review Board to ensure qualified health workers can fully utilize their full scope of practice and not be denied this right by unnecessary credentialing and licensure restrictions. The new Health Professions Regulation Reform Act provides the legislative authority to ensure health professionals certified to practice in other Canadian jurisdictions will have their credentials recognized in British Columbia, and creates a new restricted license allowing internationally trained physicians to practise in their specific areas of qualifications.
In 2005, government expedited the immigration process for internationally educated doctors under the B.C. Provincial Nominee Program through the Ministry of Economic Development. After practising in British Columbia for a minimum of nine months on a temporary work permit, internationally trained physicians can now gain permanent resident status in six to eight months instead of up to three years.
These changes are an expression of the Province’s commitment to integrating international medical graduates and other internationally educated health-care professionals into British Columbia’s work force.
#16. SMALL BUSINESS TO BENEFIT FROM FUNDING PARTNERSHIP
Organizations representing small businesses are invited to submit proposals for pilot programs to help small businesses recruit, train and retain valuable employees, and assist with succession planning, Kevin Krueger, Minister of Small Business and Revenue and Minister responsible for Regulatory Reform, announced this week.
“Small business owners identify human resource access, development and education among their top priorities,” said Krueger. “This funding through the Labour Market Agreement allows our government, in partnership with the Government of Canada and our small business community, to address these needs while making British Columbia the most small-business-friendly jurisdiction in Canada.”
The Ministry of Small Business and Revenue will be selecting up to five proposals for an 18-month pilot program period. Labour market programs eligible for funding include, but are not limited to, those in support of skills training, ranging from training in basic skills, such as literacy and numeracy, to advanced skills training; on-the-job training and workplace-based skills upgrading. Approximately $10 million of the total Labour Market Agreement (LMA) funding to the Province will be directed to the Ministry of Small Business and Revenue to fund projects on an annual basis.
“The new funding partnership will go a long way to helping small businesses in B.C. to recruit, train and retain employees,” said the Honourable Monte Solberg, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development Canada. “I’m proud that through our Labour Market Agreement, more British Columbians will be able to enjoy the benefits of the Province’s prosperous economy, and employers will gain the skilled labour they need."
For more information on proposal criteria, please visit the ministry website at www.sbr.gov.bc.ca/msbr/lma/. The deadline for submissions is August 15, at 3 p.m.
Under the LMA, each year for the next six years, the Government of Canada will provide approximately $66 million to the province. Through a variety of programs, these funds will increase training for employed individuals who are low-skilled and require essential skills, or who require recognized credentials to reach their full potential in the current marketplace. They will also help increase access to training for unemployed individuals who are underrepresented in the labour market and who currently do not qualify for Employment Insurance.
For more information on the LMA, visit www.WorkBC.ca.
#17. WHO DO CANADIANS TRUST ON THE ISSUES?
This month's Nanos national poll on who Canadians trust on the issues indicates that the Conservatives lead for trust on jobs and the economy and the War in Afghanistan.
The poll shows a statistical tie between the Liberals and the Conservatives for trust on the environment. Of note, even with the launch of the Liberal "Green Shift Plan" the Liberals did not enjoy a significant advantage over the Conservatives on the environment.
On three of the five national issues of concern the Conservatives and the Liberals are close. On all of the issues tested roughly one in three Canadians trusted none of the federal parties to manage the issue or were unsure.
Results
Question: Which federal party do you trust most to manage the following issues? (Rotate issues)
The environment
Liberals - 21%
Conservatives - 18%
NDP - 14%
Bloc - 3%
Greens - 13%
None - 16%
Unsure - 16%
Jobs and the economy
Conservatives - 32%
Liberals - 24%
NDP - 8%
Bloc - 3%
Greens - 1%
None - 16%
Unsure - 16%
National Unity
Liberals - 29%
Conservatives - 25%
NDP - 8%
Bloc - 4%
Greens - 2%
None - 17%
Unsure - 17%
Healthcare
Liberals - 25%
Conservatives - 23%
NDP - 14%
Bloc - 4%
Greens - 1%
None - 17%
Unsure - 16%
The War in Afghanistan
Conservatives - 28%
Liberals - 22%
NDP - 8%
Bloc - 3%
Greens - 2%
None - 20%
Unsure - 18%
http://www.nanosresearch.com.
#18. GREEN PARTY ESCAPES BY A DAY
By David Schreck
Political commentator and former NDP MLA
It looks like the Green Party gets off the hook on any accusation that it violated the Election Act and should be deregistered because section 25 of the Interpretation Act provides that when a date for filing falls on a date an office is closed or on a holiday, the date is extended to the next business day.
After paying a $100 fine for not filing by March 31, for both of the last two years the Greens filed on the last possible day of the extension before they would otherwise be deregistered as a party, and not allowed to register for a year. In 2007 that meant they filed on July 3 and in 2008 they filed on June 30.
For a political party that is the equivalent of playing Russian roulette. If either date had been missed for any reason, the Greens would not be allowed to run candidates or operate in any way as a political party. Is it responsible to but so much at risk? Whatever the Greens say about public policy, it looks like they are challenged to run a small political party, let alone anything bigger.
(http://www.StrategicThoughts.com)
#19. NEW RESEARCH CENTRE TAKES AIM AT CYBERCRIME
The province has provided $350,000 in grants to launch an international cybercrime research centre that will investigate online crime trends and help to develop new tools to counter them, Labour and Citizens’ Services Minister Iain Black announced this week.
“We are investing in research that will help to safeguard the province’s public sector computer network against criminal misuse and strengthen British Columbia’s position as an international leader in information security and protection of privacy,” said Black.
The International Cybercrime Research Centre will conduct research into a wide variety of cybercrime concerns, including economic crimes, social networking abuses, identity management and critical infrastructure protection. It will also analyze international trends and serve as an educational centre for industry professionals.
The centre is a unique partnership between the Province, Simon Fraser University and the International Society for the Policing of Cyberspace (POLCYB). The province is contributing $250,000 to Simon Fraser University’s School of Criminology to provide physical space and a secure data centre for lab equipment. POLCYB has received a further $100,000 to help it operate the centre.
POLCYB is a B.C.-based not-for-profit society that draws on an international community of experts to prevent and combat crimes in cyberspace.
“This is an important addition to the existing international network of cybercrime fighting agencies,” said the centre’s administrative director Bessie Pang. “The ability to share information instantly across borders is key to understanding and responding to emerging threats.”
“This partnership boosts our research capability and gives us the potential to significantly expand our knowledge base,” said Dr. Robert Gordon, director of the SFU School of Criminology.
A ‘good virus’ to combat child pornography on the Internet could be one of the first products of the new International Cybercrime Research Centre at Simon Fraser University’s Surrey campus.
The centre will facilitate research related to Internet economic crimes, social networking related crimes and analyses of ongoing trends.
As one of its initial projects the centre will focus on developing virus scanner-like tools to detect child-exploitation images.
The intent is that such tools could be widely shared and would be of tremendous benefit in the fight against child-porn and child-exploitation images worldwide, said Gordon.
The centre will help fill a significant gap in global efforts at fighting criminal activity on the internet, he said.
The centre will be directed by Bill Glackman, the university’s assistant vice-president for information technology.
Cybercrime is a huge and mostly unreported problem. Child pornography and identity theft are the most serious issues.
“Even when it is reported there are significant law enforcement and prosecutorial problems, principally because of the global nature of the phenomenon,” said Gordon, a former police officer himself.
“For example, a fraud aimed at Canadian seniors can be triggered by individuals in another country on behalf of individuals in a third country and be passed through a server in a fourth country.”
SFU will bring to the new centre expertise in engineering, computing science and criminology.
“It will lead to significant growth in a largely under-serviced area (globally). I expect huge demand for courses at the graduate and undergraduate levels, including international students, as well as professional studies certificate courses through Continuing Studies,” said Gordon.
The centre will be located at SFU’s Surrey campus in the award-winning Central City complex in downtown Surrey.
The School of Criminology began its program of teaching and research at SFU in September 1975. From the outset it has provided a comprehensive, interdisciplinary approach to criminology. It has over 800 undergraduate and 120 graduate students.
#20. REGISTRAR OF MOTOR DEALERS TARGETS DECEPTIVE DEPOSIT PRACTICES
The Registrar of Motor Dealers has issued a new directive (Directive 13) to the British Columbia motor vehicle sales industry concerning the proper procedures for accepting deposits or partial payments from consumers, expressing concern that incidents of abuse and deceptive practices have become far too common.
"It is unfortunate that a small minority of salespeople and / or dealers undertaking unfavourable practices regarding deposits generate so many consumer complaints; negatively impacting the entire industry's image," said Ian Christman, the Deputy Registrar and the Director of Licensing for the Motor Vehicle Sales Authority of B.C. (VSA). "About one quarter of all consumer complaints investigated by the VSA concern deposits, exposing a pattern of abuse of consumers."
The taking of a deposit is often part of an agreement to purchase a vehicle or is a separate agreement for services, generally: to hold a vehicle; to locate a vehicle; to bring in a vehicle; and/or to arrange financing for a vehicle. If there is a written purchase agreement, the Motor Dealer Act Regulation requires motor dealers to detail the terms and conditions under which a deposit is refundable.
If money is taken as a deposit, or if nothing is said about the purpose of taking the money, and the motor dealer later claims it was for a partial or down payment, this is a deceptive act under the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act. This may also be an unconscionable act or practice under that same Act.
Christman said that if a customer makes a deposit or partial payment, the law requires the dealer to provide a proper document with details, including details on refundability.
"Nobody should leave a deposit without knowing what it's for and they should never sign a document that has not been filled out or that they don't understand - just walk away from the dealership if the salesperson is not willing to provide proper documents and explanations," the VSA Deputy Registrar said.
More details can be found on the VSA web site www.vehcilesalesauthority.com and consumers can also phone the VSA consumer services line 604-294-9889.
#21. RICHMOND RESIDENTS GIVE HIGH RATING TO RECREATION SERVICES
Once again, the City of Richmond scored high marks from the community for its recreation services in its 2008 Recreation and Physical Fitness Ipsos-Reid survey.
Richmond contracted Ipsos-Reid in 2008 and 2006 to conduct a random telephone survey to get feedback on the City’s recreation programs and facilities, as well as to understand residents’ activity levels, recreation behaviours and needs relating to the community’s physical fitness. Richmond surpassed the municipal norm in many categories, scoring either above normal or normal.
“Being able to promote and provide outstanding recreation services is something in which the City takes great pride,” said Richmond Mayor Malcolm Brodie. “Richmond residents are some of the most active and healthiest people in the world, which was confirmed when the City won the top award for healthy lifestyles at the International Awards for Liveable Communities last year.”
For city services, 87 per cent of respondents said they were either very satisfied or somewhat satisfied with Richmond’s recreation facilities, which exceeds the municipal norm. The quality of recreation programs and services rated at 81 per cent. The variety of available recreation programs and services rated at 83 per cent. Also, the City scored 67 per cent in the area of encouraging residents to become more active.
Meanwhile, the survey found that Richmond residents continue to be active with healthy lifestyles. On average, residents participate in physical activity or exercise a total of 4.5 times a week, with walking being the most common type. The 2008 survey found that Richmond residents participate in activities more frequently than in 2006. However, the duration for which residents participate in these activities has decreased.
Health and physical well-being received a rating of 47 per cent as the primary reason for participating in physical activity. When asked what helps residents become physically active, respondents replied that information, affordability and access are the most important factors. Time is seen as the primary barrier to participation.
In June 2005, the city joined the Province of BC, 2010 Legacies Now and other BC municipalities in a challenge to increase physical activity by 20 per cent by 2010. Ipsos-Reid has been contracted by many Metro Vancouver municipalities to track recreation activity and satisfaction levels. This allows Richmond to compare programs, services and community engagement over time.
The Ipsos-Reid survey differs from the Concerto community needs assessment survey the City is currently conducting, which asks residents about their specific needs in relation to City facilities and parks. Those results will be used for detailed program and service planning.
For more information on the Ipsos-Reid survey, visit the City’s website at www.richmond.ca/parksrec/about/mandate.htm.
#22. CONSERVATIVE: STEPHANE DION’S COMMENTS “DEPLORABLE”
Conservative MP Diane Ablonczy, Secretary of State for Small Business, this week slammed federal Liberal Leader Stephane Dion for calling the legal actions of Green Shift Inc. “deplorable”.
She said: “I believe that Canadians will think its deplorable Mr. Dion is slamming an entrepreneur for simply defending a business brand she has worked hard to develop. Canadians will also find it deplorable that the Liberals have added insult to injury by suggesting that being linked to the Liberal Party is somehow doing Green Shift Inc. a favour. Canadians will be troubled that the same Liberal arrogance and sense of entitlement they rejected two and a half years ago still remains in the Liberal Party.”
#23. LIBERALS: NUCLEAR NEGLIGENCE RISKS CANADIANS’ HEALTH
The Conservative government's failure to protect the future supply of medically-necessary isotopes in Canada could now cost Canadian taxpayers almost $2 billion in legal bills, Liberal Critics Omar Alghabra and Robert Thibault said this week.
"Natural Resources Minister Gary Lunn was warned months ago that cancelling the Maple nuclear reactor project without offering a concrete alternative would have serious health and financial implications for the Government of Canada." said Alghabra, who is the Liberal Natural Resources critic. "Yet the decision was made unilaterally, without consultation with the government's partner, MDS Nordion. Now the taxpayers of Canada could be on the hook for $1.6 billion to cover up Mr. Lunn's incompetence."
MDS Nordion announced that it is suing the Crown Corporation Atomic Energy of Canada Ltd. (AECL), as well as the federal government, for $1.6 billion over its decision not to bring new reactors on stream to produce the medical isotopes that MDS sells. The lawsuit claims damages against AECL for negligence and breach of contract, and against the federal government for inducing breach of contract and "interference with economic relations."
Liberal Health Critic Robert Thibault also noted that the government's action also has serious consequences for health care. AECL's National Research Universal (NRU) reactor was brought on-line in 1958, and has an operating licence valid only until October 2011. AECL has said it plans to keep the reactor open beyond that date.
"The Conservatives have absolutely no plan to secure the long term supply of medically-necessary isotopes," said Thibault. "Their solution to this problem is to try to squeeze a few more years' life out of a 50-year-old nuclear reactor."
"When the government fired Linda Keen as president of the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission, it used the excuse of needing to ensure the continuing supply of medical isotopes," said Alghabra. "Now that the government's own decision has put the supply of medical isotopes at risk, isn't it Mr. Lunn's turn to be fired?"
#24. INDUSTRY PROMOTES CLIMATE BENEFITS OF FOREST PRODUCTS
The B.C. forestry industry and Premier Gordon Campbell announced a new initiative this week that will raise global awareness around the critical role B.C. forest products can play in the fight against climate change.
B.C.’s forest products store vast amounts of carbon that would otherwise be released into the atmosphere and contribute to climate change. Moreover, by using clean wood-based bio-energy in the manufacture of these products – and substituting them for fossil-fuel-intensive alternatives – further reductions in B.C.’s greenhouse gas emissions are achieved.
“Our forests are one of the most important allies we have in the battle against climate change. Living forests convert carbon dioxide into oxygen, while sustainable wood products play an important role in sequestering carbon,” said Campbell. “British Columbia is already known around the world as a leader in sustainable forest management and innovative wood products. Through this campaign, we can tap into the growing market for products that are green, sustainable, and carbon-smart.”
“The potential for British Columbian’s and our forest industry is immense. One of the most significant carbon reservoirs on the planet exists within our forests, and by keeping them healthy and growing, by prompt regeneration and by continuing to make carbon-storing wood products, we can have a significant positive impact,” said Ric Slaco, Chair of the BC Forestry Climate Change Working Group. “As the world begins to understand this value and the power each of us has to reduce our carbon footprint by choosing wood and paper products from sustainably managed sources, BC has the potential to be the global supplier of choice.”
As part of the awareness campaign, industry leaders will be speaking to communities across the province to help British Columbians understand how they can join BC’s forest industry to tackle climate change and make a difference. Working Group members will also incorporating this message in international marketing activities.
The industry would like consumers to know that they can have a lighter carbon footprint by continuing to recycle paper products (as the carbon is retained in the fibres), while also choosing sustainably managed wood over other building products like steel, concrete or plastic. For example, the carbon stored within an average-sized, wood-frame home is equivalent to one car’s greenhouse gas emissions for five years.
As part of the industry’s continued efforts to manage its carbon footprint, the industry has established the unprecedented goal of achieving carbon neutrality across all operations and all sectors by 2015 – without the purchase of carbon offset credits.
While the industry has already reduced its footprint substantially since 1990, surpassing Kyoto targets by five times, it believes more is achievable through forest management, the manufacture and use of climate-friendly products and by switching from fossil fuels to wood based bio-energy. And, as one of the largest producers of energy in the province, the potential for the forest industry to produce surplus green energy from wood waste is huge.
The British Columbia Forestry Climate Change Working Group is made up of industry representatives from the pulp and paper, sawmilling and forestry sectors. It has been established to provide information on the vital, ongoing role that BC’s forests and forest products will play as all of us strive to reduce the harmful impacts of greenhouse gas emissions. www.bcclimatechange.ca
The B.C. Government is pursuing a goal of zero net deforestation by 2015, and will put that goal into law by 2010. The Province is also launching a new Trees for Tomorrow urban afforestation program which will see millions of new trees planted in public spaces across B.C.
For more information on what you can do to reduce your carbon footprint and save money, visit http://www.livesmartbc.ca/.
#25. LIBERAL FOREST POLICIES RESULT IN QUEENSBOROUGH CLOSURE
The permanent closure of the Queensborough sawmill is the latest indictment of failed Campbell government forest policies, New Democrat MLA Chuck Puchmayr says.
Interfor announced the closure of the recently refurbished mill this week. The decision affects 110 jobs; 14,000 forest jobs have been lost under the Campbell government in the last 18 months alone.
“The mill is state of the art, but thanks to the Campbell government’s abandonment of the forest industry, the company has given up on it,” said Puchmayr, the MLA for New Westminster.
“This was a unique mill, specifically designed to use wood from second-growth forests,” said Puchmayr. “It was precisely the type of mill that B.C. needs for the future of our industry.
“Thanks to B.C. Liberal forest policies, the company has decided it makes more sense to dismantle the mill and sell the property. Once it’s gone, we’ve lost it forever. That’s the result of this government’s disastrous mismanagement of the forest industry.”
In January, NDP Leader Carole James released a five-point plan to renew and modernize the forest industry. The plan includes developing a green forest plan, developing an innovative and diverse industry, community and worker stabilization funding, a permanent commission on forestry and tenure reform. The plan is available at www.ourforests.ca.
#26. COLLABORATIVE WORK BRINGS NEW APPROACH TO CONSERVATION
Biodiversity BC this week released Taking Nature’s Pulse: The Status of Biodiversity in British Columbia, a scientific report on the state of B.C.’s natural environment, and the B.C. government concurrently launched its science-based Conservation Framework to address the report’s findings and conserve species at risk.
Taking Nature’s Pulse covers ecosystem, species and genetic diversity, key and special elements of biodiversity, threats, and knowledge and capacity. The report’s 23 major findings show that, compared to the rest of the world, biodiversity in B.C. is in relatively good shape, but could still be vulnerable to rapid deterioration.
“I am grateful to Biodiversity BC for advancing this important report and I want to assure British Columbians that we will prioritize and address these findings through our Conservation Framework and other related work across government wherever possible,” said Environment Minister Barry Penner. “While B.C. has protected 14 million hectares of public land with almost 1,000 parks and conservancies – the most of any province in Canada – this work cannot be done by government alone. All British Columbians have a role to play in the stewardship of our land.”
Since 2001, the B.C. government has established over 4.5 million hectares of ungulate winter range, and more than 1 million hectares have been set aside for wildlife and species at risk such as the spotted owl, mountain caribou and the Vancouver Island marmot. B.C. is also at the forefront in recovery strategies, with captive breeding programs for the marmot, spotted owl and burrowing owl.
“British Columbia is renowned for its spectacular natural diversity,” said Marian Adair, co-chair of Biodiversity BC. “Our biodiversity serves as a foundation not only for our economy, but also for a wider range of recreational, spiritual, and cultural pursuits. Taking Nature’s Pulse outlines various challenges to sustaining our province’s ecological health and provides us with the knowledge needed to define priorities for future action.”
The Conservation Framework is a scientific method that takes into account climate change and existing conservation work to select the right actions for species and ecosystems at risk. The government of B.C. will use the Conservation Framework to address key conservation challenges on a priority basis and Biodiversity BC will work to increase awareness of the importance of biodiversity and respect for the natural environment.
“People realize it’s no longer a case of environment versus economy but that environment is economy,” said Dr. Fred Bunnell, professor emeritus, Department of Forest Sciences, UBC, and an expert on conservation biology. “What is now important is how to take action on the findings in Taking Nature’s Pulse. It lays a scientific foundation for the Conservation Framework, which will increase the effectiveness of our conservation decisions and improve the way we allocate conservation resources.”
The report is the result of a collective effort by more than 50 science experts – both provincial and international, representing the top ecological thinking in B.C. – who validated the importance of this province’s natural biological diversity. Biodiversity BC is a partnership of government and non-government organizations established to support improved biodiversity conservation and planning.
#27. NDP SAYS GOVERNMENT SILENT AS LIST OF WILDLIFE AT RISK GROWS
It is not surprising that the Campbell government has ignored a groundbreaking report that points to the real need for wildlife and habitat protection in the province, New Democrat environment critic Shane Simpson said this week.
“The report released (this week) by the Biodiversity Committee provides the government with vital information, and should act as a catalyst for action,” said Simpson, MLA for Vancouver-Hastings. “Instead of leading the charge, the Campbell government is defending its dismal record, and ignoring the challenges facing the many rich and diverse ecosystems that make up our province.”
Simpson’s comments come after the release of the report, Taking Nature’s Pulse. The government’s response to the report has been labelled as ‘underwhelming’ by environmental and conservation groups.
“The Campbell government needs to listen to the warnings contained in this report. Wildlife and habitat protection must be top on the list,” said Simpson. “To date, the Campbell government has failed on this front – their weak laws have done nothing to halt the increase of species at risk.
“Despite spending millions trying to convince British Columbians that he is environmentally friendly, the Premier’s hypocrisy is shining through,” said Simpson.
“The premier and the environment minister have had many opportunities to do what is right,” said Simpson. “Just a few months ago I introduced a private members bill that would have put in place strong measures to protect species at risk and their habitat. The Campbell government should have adopted that bill to ensure the province is moving forward on this issue
“Instead, they ignore the issue and turn their backs on real solutions,” said Simpson.
Simpson said that B.C. currently has no across board measures to protect species or habitat in B.C., yet we are the most biologically diverse province in Canada. “It is shameful that Premier Campbell and Minister Penner are happy to sit idly by as the list of wildlife at risk in our province grows.”
#28. HARPER HAILS BREAKTHROUGH ON CLIMATE CHANGE AT 2008 G8 SUMMIT
TOYAKO, Japan: At the close of the 2008 G8 Summit, Prime Minister Stephen Harper said the leaders of eight of the world’s leading economic powers had made substantive progress on several critical economic, political and environmental issues facing the world, including what he termed a “breakthrough” agreement on the urgent challenge of global warming.
“There is a new consensus on climate change,” said Harper. “The United States and Russia have joined with us this year and now all G8 countries agree on the goal of a 50 percent reduction in global greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Moreover, G8 leaders have also accepted our longstanding argument that the post-2012 global climate change framework must include all major emitters.”
G8 leaders also participated in the Major Economies Meeting which allowed for a constructive discussion between major developed and developing economies that will help lay the groundwork for a post-2012 global framework on climate change.
Following animated discussions, including a forceful intervention by Harper, the G8 leaders also issued a strong statement criticizing the government of Zimbabwe for subverting democracy and ignoring the will the Zimbabwean people.
“We have added the G8’s powerful voice to the global condemnation of the fraudulent election and the illegitimacy of the Mugabe regime,” Harper said.
In a further display of solidarity following discussions about the mission in Afghanistan, G8 leaders endorsed Harper’s call for the international community to “redouble our efforts to build competent, effective, credible Afghan governance and security institutions, and to deal with the problems of the Afghan-Pakistan border.”
The Toyako Summit addressed many other important global issues, including aid for Africa, energy security and food aid. “Canada can and is making major contributions in all these areas,” Harper said, “including the doubling of Canada’s overall international aid between 2001 and 2010, and the doubling of our aid to Africa to $2.1 billion in 2008-2009.”
#29. LIBERALS: CANADA RENEGING ON COMMITMENT TO AFRICA
Canada has gone from leader to laggard in its development assistance to Africa under the Conservative government, Liberal Foreign Affairs Critic Bob Rae and International Development Critic Keith Martin said this week.
"The Harper government is reneging on Canada's commitments to the world's poorest countries," said Rae. "It's clear that Africa is not a priority for them."
As the G8 summit opened in Toyako, Japan, today, international aid groups focused their criticism on Canada's diminished role in assistance to Africa.
In 2005, the former Liberal government joined other G8 countries in Gleneagles, Scotland in committing Canada to doubling its aid to Africa by 2010 from a 2003-04 base of $2.7 billion. However since then, aid to Africa has actually dropped to just $1.7 billion in 2006-07.
"All the G8 countries will be held to account when they meet in Huntsville, Ontario in 2010," said Martin. "It will be especially embarrassing for Canada as host if it continues to renege on its commitments."
The Harper government was also accused by aid groups of trying to water down a draft communiqué on health measures in an attempt avoid making a future commitment.
Under the Conservatives, Canada's overseas development assistance has fallen to 0.2 per cent of our gross national income in 2007 from 0.34 per cent in 2005.
Rae said that the Liberal Party is committed to attaining the United Nations Millennium Development Goals, which would allocate 0.7 per cent of our gross national income to international assistance.
#30. PREMIER’S STATEMENT ON THE PASSING OF BOB ACKLES
Premier Gordon Campbell released the following statement this week regarding the passing of BC Lions president and CEO Bob Ackles:
“I know British Columbians’ hearts and prayers go out to the many family, friends and colleagues of Bob Ackles. Bob was a visionary who selflessly put his community, his province and his country before himself.
“From his early beginnings as a water boy with the BC Lions, Bob’s life is an inspiration to many of us. He worked his way up to Lions general manager where he oversaw the team’s move from Empire Stadium to BC Place. His talents and determination led him to the NFL where he served as vice-president of player personnel for the Dallas Cowboys. After serving in senior positions with other NFL teams, Bob returned home in 2002 to become president and CEO of the BC Lions.
“Bob’s dedication to his community went beyond football. In addition to his work with the Lions, Bob also served on the board of directors for the Vancouver YMCA. In 1986 he won the Schenley Award for his contributions to the CFL. In 2002 he was inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame. In 2004, he was inducted into the BC Sports Hall of Fame. In 2005 Bob was honoured with the Jack Diamond Award by the Jewish Community Centre as Sportsman of the Year.
“The Canadian football family has lost a true champion. He was generous in his spirit and adamant in his belief that football in Canada is a community game. He reached out across the province to the youngest fan and the oldest football aficionado. He built a team and as he did, he strengthened our province and our country.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Kay and the family in this most difficult time. Our gratitude goes out to them for sharing Bob throughout their lives together.
“Our province has lost a great British Columbian today. Bob’s determination, dedication and commitment to the BC Lions, the fans and his community serve as an example of exemplary citizenship that all British Columbians can be proud of.”
#31. FIRST VANCOUVER 2010 INDOOR COMPETITION VENUE COMPLETED
The Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games (VANOC) and the University of British Columbia (UBC), in partnership with the Government of Canada and the province of British Columbia, announced this week that UBC Thunderbird Arena is the first indoor competition venue in the Host Region to complete construction.
Construction on the UBC Thunderbird Arena began in April, 2006, and involved refurbishing the Father Bauer Arena, built in 1963, and the construction of two new rinks: a practice rink and a 7,500-seat competition arena. Construction was completed on budget at $47 million, $37 million of which was contributed by VANOC, $9 million by UBC and $1 million by RONA (a VANOC Official Sponsor), four months ahead of its originally scheduled completion date of November.
“The Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games are leaving a lasting legacy of world-class sporting venues, generating new economic opportunities and promoting active living and sporting excellence for generations to come,” said Premier Gordon Campbell. “Through the new venues’ Aboriginal Art Program, we can showcase B.C.’s strong Aboriginal arts community to the world, and share the richness and diversity of our province’s cultural heritage with millions of people.”
“This beautiful new venue builds on a proud UBC and Vancouver Olympic hockey legacy,” said Professor Stephen J. Toope, president and vice-chancellor of UBC. “It was here in 1963 that Father David Bauer founded Canada’s first national Olympic hockey team with a nucleus of UBC players. I take pleasure in knowing that this will be a wonderful home for a new generation of competitive and recreational athletes – an exceptional facility for UBC athletes and for the entire community to use and enjoy.”
The venue will host the men’s and women’s ice hockey, as well as the men’s ice sledge hockey competitions during the 2010 Winter Games. Prior to the Games, the facility will be home to the UBC Thunderbirds’ varsity hockey program, student and staff programs, and community programs. The community can use the venue for over 230 hours a week for hockey leagues, high school rentals, drop-in programs and other events. Hockey Canada will also use the facility as a pre- and post-Games training and event-hosting venue. Following the Games, the venue will become a recreational and high-performance, multi-sport legacy facility, easily convertible for ice sledge hockey training and competitions. The arena can also be converted to a concert venue.
“The government of Canada is proud to play a key part in the success of the 2010 Winter Games and the development of world-class facilities such as the UBC Thunderbird Arena,” said James Moore, Secretary of State of Asia-Pacific Gateway and 2010 Olympics. “This venue will serve not only as a top-notch venue for our Olympic and Paralympic athletes, but also as a lasting legacy for the community. Athletes and local residents will be able to use the arena for years to come.”
UBC Thunderbird Arena was developed by UBC Properties Trust and built by Bird Construction. The arena was designed to be highly accessible for athletes and spectators with a disability, and was designed with careful attention to sustainability and energy conservation. Built to be equivalent to LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Green Building Rating System) silver certification, highlights of the venue’s environmentally friendly design include the use of an Eco-Chill system (which recycles waste energy used to maintain the ice to heat the building) and the use of energy-efficient lighting. The facility is also close to transit services.
#32. B.C. SENDING 43 PARALYMPIC ATHLETES TO BEIJING
Premier Gordon Campbell and Minister of Healthy Living and Sport Mary Polak congratulated the B.C. Paralympic athletes named this week to represent Canada in the 2008 Paralympic Summer Games in Beijing.
“Nearly one-third of all the athletes contributing to the success of Canada’s 2008 Paralympic team will be from British Columbia. This is an incredible accomplishment, and I want to thank every one of these athletes for their commitment to excellence,” said Premier Campbell. “All British Columbians are proud of the achievements of our Paralympic athletes and I know everyone will be cheering loudly as they represent our province and our country and go for the gold in Beijing this September.”
B.C. athletes represent 43 of the 143 athletes in 17 sports who make up the Canadian Paralympic team, or just over 30 per cent. B.C. athletes are considered those who are born or reside in British Columbia.
“It’s with great pride that I join people across the province and the country in congratulating all of the athletes who will represent Canada at the 2008 Beijing Paralympic Summer Games,” said Polak. “Their dedication to excellence and hard work is an inspiration to all of us.”
About 4,000 athletes from 145 nations will compete in the 2008 Paralympic Games in a range of sports, including archery, wheelchair basketball, cycling, fencing, judo, powerlifting, rowing, wheelchair rugby, and swimming.
The province invests over $40 million annually to encourage British Columbians to be physically active and to support B.C.’s ‘performance pathway’ for athletes, coaches and the practitioners supporting them.
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