Local politicians met with BC Southern Interior MP Alex Atamanenko at the Legion Hall on Tuesday November 13.
Keremeos Mayor Manfred Bauer, Electoral Areas “B” and “G” Directors George Bush and Angelique Wood met with Atamanenko along with 20 or so members of the public from the Lower Similkameen.
Opening remarks were followed by a question and answer session in which the following regional topics were discussed:
- genetically modified foods
- the lack of public transportation in the valley-
- the Similkameen Valley water study
- the importance of regional cooperation
The meeting ran just over two hours.
As part of a South Okanagan - Similkameen tour to meet with local officials, Atamanenko also spoke to regional district directors at the regular board meeting of November 15.
He described his attempt to pass a Private Members Bill last year regarding genetically modified foods legislation and the lobby from industry opposed to it.
He also thanked Electoral Area “C” Director Allan Patton for his director’s motion opposing the Arctic apple.
“It’s important to keep the pressure on,” Attamanenko said regarding GMO legislation, “the next battle ground is alfalfa.”
Atamanenko also told the board that he had taken an intervenor’s position on the smart meter issue, noting that safety code six was not adequate to tackle smart meter safety issues. He continues his work with the Canadian Peace Initiative, and continues his work to prevent horsemeat from being butchered for human consumption.