The BC Liberals claim the NDP government is keeping the public in the dark on efforts to protect caribou.
Peace River South MLA Mike Bernier says the potential closure of caribou habitat could have far-reaching economic consequences for forestry, tourism, and mining.
In a news release, Bernier says that while he understands First Nations have been consulted, other stakeholders have not.
He says that’s creating needless anxiety and division within the community.
The concerns come as the Liberals accuse the environment ministry of pulling out of a planned meeting with the Peace River Regional District after councillors requested the meeting be open to the public.
The Liberals say that while the survival of caribou populations is paramount, the general public has a right to know about plans that may affect them.