City of PG to be represented on Premier’s new Expert Task Force on Emergencies

Prince George’s manager of emergency programs has been named to the Premier’s 14-member Expert Task Force on Emergencies.

Tanya Spooner will join Cheslatta Carrier Nation Chief Corrina Leween as the two northern representatives selected to the group.

Yesterday (Tuesday), the provincial government announced the introduction of the emergency and disaster management act.

When passed in Victoria, it is expected to provide a more proactive approach to emergency management – with an emphasis on disaster risk reduction to help safeguard people and communities.

“This is a much-needed update to the emergency management regime in B.C. First Nations maintain their rights to decide, prepare, mitigate and recover from emergencies. B.C. needs to ensure their laws and regulations will work in partnership with First Nations governments. The BC Assembly of First Nations supports the inclusion of First Nations in all areas of emergency management. This has been another historic year for wildfires and we always are the first to feel the impacts from the climate emergency. We released the First Nations Disaster Risk Reduction Strategy last week, which will guide what First Nations need and want in emergency management. Government and industry must thoroughly understand this DRR strategy,” said Terry Teegee, BC Assembly of First Nations Regional Chief.

In addition, the task force is expected to provide recommendations in advance of the 2024 wildfire season in BC.

The province is working with local governments and First Nations in order to obtain support for the legislation.

The new act will replace the previous Emergency Program Act, which has not been updated since 1993.

“A changing climate means people and communities around B.C. are feeling the effects of extreme weather emergencies like never before,” said Premier David Eby.

“We’re taking action with a strong and proactive approach to emergency management, one that will be guided by an expert task force with representatives from First Nations, local government and more. Our focus is on supporting those on the front lines of a disaster and quickly applying the lessons we’ve learned to better prepare for future emergencies.”