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Current model lets the "fox guard the hen house."
Vancouver (29 Jan. 2018) — The B.C. government has initiated a review of the professional reliance model in the natural resource sector. The day-to-day work of thousands of members of the B.C. Government and Service Employees' Union (BCGEU/NUPGE) is shaped by this regulatory model, and many members have raised the alarm about its shortcomings.
BCGEU/NUPGE members give input on model to protect environment and public interest
In its present form, the professional reliance model effectively lets the "fox guard the henhouse," leading in some cases to the mismanagement of our resources and harm to the environment. Combined with deep cuts to staff and funding for the responsible ministries and agencies, strong public oversight of our lands has been seriously eroded.
This review is an important opportunity to fix how the provincial government oversees industry's activities on the land base in B.C. so that the environment and the public interest are better protected. Mark Haddock, an environmental lawyer, was appointed to conduct the review, and his report and recommendations are due in May, 2018.
You can find the full submission on BCGEU's website.