National Observer, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Some intercity bus companies on Vancouver Island are going to be fuelled by a $10.7-million COVID-19 cash injection from the B.C. government over the next year.
But it’s still unclear if the rubber will hit the road in a number of rural, remote North Island communities that had non-existent or inadequate intercity service even prior to the pandemic.
Continue reading Intercity buses are getting a boost, what about remote communities?There was a staggered protest against BC’s old growth logging practises in front of MLA Michele Babchuk’s office, in Campbell River, yesterday.
Continue reading Campbell River Staggered protest against BC’s old growth logging practisesNational Observer, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Small rural communities on Vancouver Island are under strain and individual and community health is at risk with the continued lack of intercity bus service on Vancouver Island, service providers say.
Continue reading North Vancouver Island intercity buses on hold: COVID-19Salmon farming is a significant local employer in Northern Vancouver Island. According to a recent report there are 572 Campbell River, Sayward and the Discovery Islands residents working in this sector. 702 people are said to have indirect jobs, which means the industry is bringing about $324 million a year into the local economy. Another 512 direct and indirect jobs, representing $135 million, are in Port Hardy and Port McNeill.
Continue reading North Vancouver Island Mayors support fish farmsOn October 24th, more than 50% of North Island’s electorate chose Michele Babchuk to represent them in the Provincial Legislature. Though more than a month has passed, she has only just stepped down from her previous roles as a Campbell River councillor and Chair of the Strathcona Regional District (SRD) Board. Though yet to sit in parliament, she has been made the Deputy Government Whip and a member of the Appointment Orders Committee. I recently asked Michele about becoming our MLA .
Continue reading Michele Babchuk: Becoming our MLA
