Editor:
Re: Pressing issues, March 4, Observer Feedback, Arthur Topham.
I wonder if Mr. Topham would consider an abandoned toxic cesspool threatening his drinking water a “pressing issue” needing immediate attention by his MLA.
The people living on Spokin Lake Road near Horsefly certainly do.
Would an industrial-size, illegal grow-op run by organized crime and posing a significant fire and public health threat be considered a “pressing issue” if one were built in Cottonwood, where Mr. Topham lives?
The people living in Likely, Horsefly and Big Lake have certainly told me they consider these grow-ops a “pressing issue” requiring the attention of their MLA.
As the MLA for Cariboo North, I’ve never had anyone tell me that a “pressing concern” is the contrails from planes flying over our region.
However, I’ve been told repeatedly that there is a real need for me to try and address the serious problems these large, illegal, gang-run grow-ops create for my constituents.
I agree with Mr. Topham that we must address the issue of legalization of marijuana and that politicians of all stripes must find the moral courage to engage in this debate and change our laws.
Until those laws are changed however, I have an obligation to make sure that rural B.C. isn’t open for business for organized crime to threaten our communities, pollute our soil and water, and create a public health hazard through their illegal activities.
On a final note, civil discourse is essential to building a progressive and sustainable society.
Mr. Topham could have made his case without recourse to the abusive and inappropriate language he used in his letter.
I don’t think the cause of legalization of marijuana was advanced by Mr. Topham’s approach to this complex issue.
Arthur, you have my phone number, I’d be happy to have a civil conversation with you about this important issue over a good cup of coffee someday soon.
Bob Simpson
MLA Cariboo North
Quesnel