The BC government says a new partnership will improve emergency management planning in the Bella Coola valley.
The province has signed a memorandum of understanding the Central Coast Regional District and the Nuxalk Nation to better co-ordinate emergency preparation, mitigation, response, and recovery operations in a region hit by both floods and wildfires.
“This partnership will be the vehicle we need to bring all partners to the table to discuss emergency management in the region,” said Jennifer Rice, Parliamentary Secretary for Emergency Preparedness, in a news release. “When it comes to emergency preparation, mitigation, response and recovery, more remote areas have unique challenges. By sitting down and working together, we can help make the Bella Coola valley safer by creating emergency plans that help meet specific needs.”
The Central Coast Regional Partnership Memorandum of Understanding aims to fill any emergency management gaps that impact more than a single jurisdiction, provide oversight on high-level emergency management issues, and foster better collaboration between Indigenous communities, government, and other stakeholders.
“It has become crystal clear that the effects of climate change must be taken seriously,” said Chief Wally Webber of the Nuxalk Nation. “The Nuxalk Nation has formally decided to enter this partnership because every life matters. We look forward to proactively moving forward in preparing for any potential emergencies in collaboration with Emergency Management BC and the CCRD.”
The partnership’s inaugural steering committee meeting is scheduled to take place after the ceremonial signing of the MOU.
