Monthly Archives: February 2009

Concerns About the New Budget

With eight weeks before the next provincial election, I believe many British Columbians are concerned about their jobs and the services they need to get through tough times.   But just as we saw in both 2001 and 2005, the … Continue reading

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Filed under economy, op-ed

Treat Rural Agency Stores Fairly – Coons

Last week the Official Opposition hammered the Campbell government for unfair liquor pricing policies that are driving many rural general stores to the brink of bankruptcy.   At issue is the fact that private liquor stores in urban areas get … Continue reading

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Filed under press release, rural bc

North Coast MLA Pays Tribute to Fulton

North Coast MLA, Gary Coons rose in the Legislature Feb 11, to pay tribute to the late Jim Fulton.   Mr. Fulton was 58. He passed away just before Christmas on Dec. 20, after a three-year battle with cancer. He … Continue reading

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Filed under Hansard

Provincial Government Must Sign PNCIMA Memorandum

The Campbell government is jeopardizing the future of a comprehensive marine plan for the north coast by refusing to come to the table, says North Coast MLA Gary Coons.

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Filed under environment, First Nations, press release, rural bc

Boosting Advanced Education is critical to stimulate B.C.’s economy

Last week’s federal budget missed an opportunity to adequately boost post-secondary funding and research activity to help our economy’s short-term rescue and long-term prosperity.

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Filed under economy, education, op-ed

New self-contained salmon farming is lauded

The development of a new closed-containment salmon farm has New Democrats excited about the future of the aquaculture industry in British Columbia, and disappointed that the Liberals don’t see it.

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Filed under environment, rural bc

Queen of the North settlement infuriates Coons

North Coast MLA and Ferries critic Gary Coons is calling for a judicial inquiry into the sinking of the Queen of the North after litigation between two Penticton teens and BC Ferries was dropped due to costs.

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Filed under ferries

Campbell Hits Coastal Communities with Huge Ferry Fare Hikes Again – Rising by Almost 50 per cent on Sunday

After a temporary two-month reduction in ferry fares, the Campbell government is hammering coastal communities with another fare hike that takes effect today.   Ferries critic Gary Coons noted that it cost a driver and car $37.50 to travel on the … Continue reading

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Filed under ferries, press release, transportation