VICTORIA, B.C. – Sonia Furstenau, B.C. Green Party environment spokesperson, responded today to the tabling of the Professional Governance Act. This legislation is a direct response to the recommendations of Mark Haddock’s professional reliance review, which was a B.C. Green platform policy initiative, later committed to by both parties in the Confidence and Supply Agreement between the B.C. Greens and the B.C. NDP.
“I am very pleased to see this legislation tabled in the House today. In an era of climate change it is more important than ever that we ensure we are managing our natural resources with the best expertise and transparency possible,” said Furstenau.
“Events such as the Mt. Polley disaster have illustrated that we need to do better to protect the public interest of British Columbians and the economic, ecological, and social values of our province. The changes in this legislation will strengthen public trust and provide greater certainty for industry. The creation of the Office of the Superintendent of Professional Governance will ensure decisions are made with a high degree of integrity and accountability, and with science-based, modern best practices.
“Since the publication of Mark Haddock’s independent report on the professional reliance model I have been meeting with stakeholders from industry, government, communities, environmental organizations and legal groups. They have highlighted a variety of strengths within the report and emphasized the importance of government’s continued response to the remaining 119 recommendations.
“Now that this legislation is before the House I am eager to review it in detail and speak to it in the Chamber. I look forward to continuing to work with government on this shared priority file to the benefit of British Columbians across the province.”
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