Burns Lake hosts federal and provincial political forums

Residents of Burns Lake, British Columbia, recently participated in two significant political gatherings addressing regional concerns.

Federal Member of Parliament Ellis Ross held a two-hour town hall at the Burns Lake Heritage Church as part of a regional tour. During the Q&A session, constituents raised issues regarding the economy, national security, crime, and critical gaps in rural services. A primary concern involved the lack of reliable internet and cellular service, which residents noted hinders access to telehealth and exacerbates healthcare staffing shortages. Ross committed to investigating previous federal promises regarding broadband access.

Separately, the Burns Lake Chamber of Commerce hosted an all-candidates forum for the Nechako Lakes provincial election. Candidates Diane Black (BC Conservative), Jesse Gervais (BC NDP), and Clint Lambert (Independent) discussed economic growth, affordability, and rural services. While candidates shared common ground on industry advancement, they held differing views on the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA) and LGBTQIA+ rights. Discussion also covered specific party platforms, including tax cuts and fuel price reductions.