Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced that starting
The Prime Minister, flanked by federal Finance Minister Jim Flaherty, made the announcement at the same
Reducing the GST from six to five per cent builds on the Government’s initial cut from seven to six per cent on
“Reducing the GST is part of our broader plan to ensure
Since coming to office, the Conservative Government has taken action to cut sales, income and business taxes, reducing the overall tax burden for Canadians and businesses by close to $200 billion, and bringing taxes to the lowest level they have been in nearly 50 years.
Monday, December 31, 2007
PRIME MINISTER RINGS IN NEW YEAR WITH GST CUT
NEW YEARS EVE IN NANAIMO
If you are looking for something for the whole family be sure to check out the 'Finale 2007' at Beban Park.
This family friendly celebration will ring in the new year with swimming, skating and more.
For information please call 756-5200
"May you all have a Happy and Prosperous New Year".
VANCOUVER ISLAND SHORT FILM FESTIVAL
Films
“It was a tough process, but the final 21 films are excellent. We anticipated some great films, but these exceeded our expectations and should make the festival an event to remember. There are so many talented filmmakers in our community and we are very excited to give them an opportunity to showcase their talents.”
“Our main goal is to turn the spotlight on our talented local filmmakers,” said Blakeborough.
Friday, December 28, 2007
BC FERRIES CURRENT SALING CONDITIONS
You can check the current sailing conditions for Nanaimo to Horseshoe Bay at Nanaimo's Departure Bay Ferry Terminal by clicking here.
You can check the current sailing conditions for Duke Point to Tsawwassen at the Duke Point Ferry Terminal by clicking here.
NANAIMO CONFERENCE CENTER NEWS
The local press reports that a business consortium which owns various retail space in Nanaimo, has put forth an offer to purchase the retail space in the new Nanaimo convention center.
If the deal goes ahead the company would then lease the space to a variety of retail businesses. The city would not disclose who was putting forth the offer saying that confidentiality prohibited them from such a disclosure at this time.
Editors Comment; it is unfortunate that the city has found itself in the position of having to sell this space, rather than reaping the long term benefits of leasing it directly to different businesses.
For booking and more information about the Vancouver Island Conference Centre use this Nanaimo Info LINK.
Thursday, December 27, 2007
WIND AND SNOW WARNINGS ISSUED FOR NANAIMO
THE FOLLOWING WEATHER WARNINGS
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL
And he took Mary his betrothed wife, being with child.
And while they were there, the days for her deliverance were fulfilled.
And she brought forth her son, the First-born, and wrapped Him, and laid Him in a manger-- because there was no room for them in the inn.
And in the same country there were shepherds living in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.
And lo, the angel of the Lord came on them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them. And they were grievously afraid.
And the angel said to them, Do not fear. For behold, I give to you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
For to you is born today, in the city of David, a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.
And this is a sign to you. You will find the babe wrapped, lying in a manger.
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying,
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
Luke 2:5-14
Monday, December 24, 2007
SOME BC FERRIES NANAIMO EXTRA SAILINGS CANCELLED
QUEEN OF ALBERNI OUT OF SERVICE
FOR ONE WEEK
experienced a mechanical failure on one of its main engines and is expected to be out of service
The Queen of Coquitlam, which is scheduled to provide extra service on the
On the
All sailings on the Tsawwassen –
BC Ferries estimates the Queen of Alberni will return to service in approximately one
For detailed schedule information as well as reservations, visit www.bcferries.com or call
Sunday, December 23, 2007
ANOTHER WIND WARNING ISSUED
SOUTHERLY WINDS UP TO 100 KM/H OVERNIGHT ACROSS THE NORTH AND CENTRAL COAST AND WEST VANCOUVER ISLAND ARE EXPECTED THIS MORNING. SOUTHEAST WINDS UP TO 70 KM/H WILL SPREAD TO EAST VANCOUVER ISLAND LATER THIS MORNING. THIS IS A WARNING THAT POTENTIALLY DAMAGING WINDS ARE EXPECTED OR OCCURRING IN THESE REGIONS. MONITOR WEATHER CONDITIONS..LISTEN FOR UPDATED STATEMENTS.
Saturday, December 22, 2007
WIND WARNING ISSUED FOR NANAIMO DEC. 22
THE FOLLOWING WARNING
SOUTHEAST WINDS OF UP TO 90 KM/H EXPECTED THIS MORNING FOR THE NORTH AND CENTRAL COAST AND NORTH VANCOUVER ISLAND. SOUTHEAST WINDS OF UP TO 70 KM/H EXPECTED THIS MORNING FOR EAST AND WEST VANCOUVER ISLAND..THE SUNSHINE COAST..GREATER VICTORIA..THE SOUTHERN GULF ISLANDS AND GREATER VANCOUVER. THIS IS A WARNING THAT POTENTIALLY DAMAGING WINDS ARE EXPECTED OR OCCURRING IN THESE REGIONS. MONITOR WEATHER CONDITIONS..LISTEN FOR UPDATED STATEMENTS.
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
LEAD TESTING KITS UNRELIABLE FOR CHECKING TOY SAFETY
ARE NOT RELIABLE
Lead is a soft, heavy metal which is poisonous when absorbed into the body. It is a naturally occurring element that is found in trace amounts everywhere in the human environment. Lead is especially toxic to young children, and can cause serious learning and behavioural problems even at very low exposure levels. Regulations under Health
Since the test kits indicate the presence of lead by a colour change, the results may be affected by pigments present in the tested product. Also, the test kit may not detect lead in a product which has a protective or decorative coating. The test results are hard to interpret since a positive reading does not necessarily mean that there is enough lead in the product to create an exposure risk. The kits have a limited shelf life, and performance can be affected by the age of the kits.
Because of these concerns, Health
FROM LEAD EXPOSURE
If you suspect a toy, children's jewellery item, or other product may contain lead, immediately remove it from the reach of children.
If the product is low cost, it can be thrown away in normal household waste.
If the product is not a low-cost item, contact the manufacturer or retailer regarding your lead content concerns.
Remove from children's reach any product which has paint peeling off any of its surfaces. Children may eat peeling paint containing lead.
If you believe your child has swallowed an object containing lead, seek immediate medical attention. There is a serious risk of severe or fatal lead poisoning if an object containing high amounts of lead remains in the body.
If your child has sucked or chewed regularly on a product which you think may contain lead, ask your doctor to test your child's blood for lead.
Check Health
A full list of product recalls in
Further information on Lead and human health can be found at: www.hc-sc.gc.ca/iyh-vsv/environ/lead-plomb_e.html
WIND WARNING ISSUED FOR NANAIMO
FOLLOWING WARNING AT 4:30 AM TODAY
SOUTHEAST WINDS 50 TO 70 KM/H BECOMING SOUTHWEST 50 TO 70 KM/H THIS AFTERNOON. THIS IS A WARNING THAT POTENTIALLY DAMAGING WINDS ARE EXPECTED OR OCCURRING IN THESE REGIONS. MONITOR WEATHER CONDITIONS..LISTEN FOR UPDATED STATEMENTS.
SAFE WINTER DRIVING TIPS
THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
Before highway travelling this holiday season, the Ministry of Transportation recommends motorists plan a safe trip by checking the DriveBC website (www.drivebc.ca) for the latest road and weather conditions. Travellers may also call the toll-free DriveBC line (1-800-550-HWYS).
The ministry’s road and bridge maintenance contractors will be patrolling highways and plowing and sanding where needed. Motorists are advised to stay well back of a plow truck, do not pass when its lights are flashing and never pass it on the right. Plow trucks will move to the side of the road to allow travellers to pass when it is safe to do so.
Drivers should make sure their vehicles are ready for winter driving. Most important is a good set of winter tires. Motorists should plan more travel time for trips, slow down and allow more following distance between vehicles. For long distance travel, drivers are encouraged to pack an emergency kit including blanket, flashlight, emergency rations, and warm clothing and footwear. Other winter tips include:
- Carry chains suitable for your vehicle and practice installing them
- Fill your gas tank to avoid gas line freeze-up
- Replace worn windshield wiper blades and top up windshield fluids, as road spray may reduce visibility
- Do not use cruise-control or overdrive
- Watch for wildlife, which may be feeding along roadsides
- Take extra care in shaded areas, bridges and intersections, which are more vulnerable to black ice
- Reduce your speed; remember that the maximum posted speed is intended for ideal road and weather conditions
The ministry has been working with other partners including ICBC, RCMP, BCAA, the BC Trucking Association, highway maintenance contractors and WorkSafeBC to help promote winter driving preparedness. Other web sites with winter driving information include:
- ICBC http://www.icbc.com
- BCAA http://www.bcaa.com
ICBC WIN FRAUD SUIT AGAINST NANAIMO MAN
NANAIMO RESIDENT ORDERED
TO PAY ICBC $87,000
A B.C. Supreme Court judge has ordered Cole Owen Adams of
ICBC was seeking to recover the costs paid out for the stolen vehicles claims, plus the costs to investigate, legal fees and punitive damages. On
"We are very pleased with this award. It reinforces our zero tolerance for fraud," said Steve Tripp, ICBC manager of Fraud Prevention and Investigation. "We combat fraud to deter others and to recover fraudulent payments, which helps to keep rates low and stable," said Tripp.
The scheme was uncovered on
In addition to the civil action,
ICBC invests more in fraud prevention and investigation than most property and casualty insurance companies in
Monday, December 17, 2007
BC FERRIES EXTRA HOLIDAY SAILINGS
BC FERRIES ADDS HOLIDAY SEASON SAILINGS
BC Ferries is pleased to announce that it will offer more than 120 extra sailings between the Lower Mainland and
Between December 20 and January 6, one hundred extra sailings will be added between Tsawwassen and
Traditionally, December 26 and 27 are the busiest days for ferry travel over the holidays. For customers intent on sailing at specific times, reservations are recommended, particularly on these two days.
Meanwhile, BC Ferries will offer its popular Coast Saver fares on all sailings between Tsawwassen and Duke Point, every day from December 19 though January 6. During this period, customers will be able to save $5 per passenger and $15 per underheight vehicle. Coast Saver fares are also available on the
Please note that on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, sailings will be reduced on some routes to reflect the traditionally lower traffic volumes.
For details regarding schedules, reservations and a complete list of CoastSaver sailings, visit www.bcferries.com or call 1-888-BCFERRY (223-3779).
To view the B.C. Ferry Nanaimo Sailing Schedule or check current conditions at either Nanaimo B.C. Ferry Terminals use this LINK.
HOLIDAY FOOD SAFETY
HEALTH CANADA REMINDS CANADIANS
OF HOLIDAY FOOD SAFE
Baked goods:
Eggnog: Store-bought eggnog is pasteurized to remove any dangerous bacteria before it is shipped for sale. If you’re making eggnog at home using raw eggs, be sure to heat the egg and milk mixture to at least 71° C (160° F). Immediately after heating, refrigerate the eggnog in small, shallow containers to allow it to cool quickly. Or, use pasteurized egg and milk ingredients, which are available at many grocery stores.
Fruit juice and cider: When making punch or serving cider, check the product label to make sure the juice or cider has been pasteurized. Unpasteurized juice may contain bacteria like E.coli or Salmonella that can make you sick. If it has not been pasteurized, you can make it safer by boiling the product before serving.
Oysters and seafood: Some people enjoy eating raw seafood, such as oysters and sushi, during their holiday festivities. However, because raw or undercooked fish and seafood may contain bacteria, parasites or viruses, special care in their preparation and handling is needed. If you choose to serve and eat raw oysters and seafood, care is needed, as with any perishable food. Keep seafood like raw oysters or cold cooked shrimp rings refrigerated and serve them on ice to ensure they remain cold at holiday buffets. People who are more vulnerable to the risks of foodborne illness, such as older adults, pregnant women, young children and people with weakened immune systems, should avoid eating raw or undercooked fish and seafood.
It is estimated that there are between 11 million and 13 million cases of food-related illnesses in
Friday, December 14, 2007
SAILBOATS SEEN ON LONG LAKE NANAIMO
While not of the same stature as the Coastal Renaissance these sailboats provide an interesting scene for passersby, as they glide silently across the surface of Long Lake.
They are skippered by land based captains via remote control who could be seen steering their vessels from a nearby dock.
The next time you go flying by on the highway take a glance and you might see this flotilla passing by.
COASTAL RENAISSANCE DOCKS IN NANAIMO
Coastal Renaissance, the first of three new Super C-class vessels built for BC Ferries, arrived in
Public open houses are being scheduled in
Thursday, December 13, 2007
AVOID IDENTITY THEFT AND PROTECT YOUR CREDIT
When shopping online:
Five key steps to take immediately if you are a victim:
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
COASTAL RENAISSANCE TO ARRIVE IN BC
The ship will then make a 360 degree turn in Vancouver Harbour, showcasing the massive photographic invitation to the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic games that appears on its hull. After the ship circles
SINGING CHRISTMAS TREE
PRESENTS THE SINGING CHRISTMAS TREE 2007
Evangelistic Tabernacle at 1300 Princess Royal Ave. once again will be producing this popular family event.
Program schedule:
December 15 - 4:00 and 7:00pm
December 16 - 4:00 and 7:00pm
Free tickets are available from
Nanaimo Christian Books and Music
The Buzz Coffee House
For Information About 2009 Singing Christmas Tree use this Nanaimo Info LINK.
For more information you can visit the Evangelistic Tabernacle website here.
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
IF YOU DRINK PLAN A SAFE RIDE HOME
Police roadchecks are on now
Despite decades of impaired driving awareness, drinking drivers are still responsible for approximately one in 10 injury collisions in the province, and about one of every four fatal crashes involves alcohol.
"Police roadchecks are on now, so plan a safe ride home this holiday season," says ICBC Loss Prevention Manager, Brian Sargent. "You or your passengers could be injured or killed in a crash, and you risk losing your licence, time in jail and possibly a criminal record."
In 2005 there were approximately 1,030 alcohol related crashes on
While drinking and driving results in an unacceptable number of crashes, there are other consequences for consideration as well. Having your vehicle impounded, paying stiff fines or facing jail time with the promise of a criminal record for life, could all have a serious effect on your holidays, not to mention the rest of your life.
CounterAttack police roadchecks were introduced 30 years ago and continue to be a successful element of the police campaign. They are on now, up and down
Monday, December 10, 2007
AVOID FIRE RISKS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
In December 2006, of the 238 fires recorded by the Office of the Fire Commissioner, 19 were caused by candles, 30 attributed to cooking and two blazes originated with Christmas trees. Some of these fires caused injuries while total property loss was almost $2 million.
Life-saving steps to help enjoy a fire safe holiday season include:
Never leave lit candles unattended and keep them away from combustible materials.
Decorate with flame-retardant or non-combustible materials.
Keep Christmas trees, wrapping and decorations away from heat sources.
Keep your real Christmas tree fresh by watering it often, or consider a fire resistant artificial tree as an alternative.
Always turn tree lights off before leaving home or going to sleep.
Use lights that have been tested and labelled by an approved testing laboratory.
Don’t overload electrical circuits or extension cords.
A stovetop fire can start in a flash. Stay in the kitchen when something is cooking.
Keep a lid nearby to smother flames if a fire starts in a pot.
All combustible items should be kept a safe distance away from the stove, including tea towels, wooden or plastic spoons and paper towels.
The Office of the Fire Commissioner also recommends each home have working smoke alarms and a fire escape plan in place. For more fire safety information, please visit www.pssg.gov.bc.ca/firecom/index.htm.
Friday, December 07, 2007
NANAIMO BOIL WATER ADVISORY LIFTED
The City of Nanaimo in consultation with the VIHA have determined it is no longer necessary to boil water in Nanaimo.
Recent snow run off and heavy rains had made the boil water advisory necessary as turbidity levels were quite high.
All is back to normal now.
SIGN UP FOR EMERGENCY ALERT
If you are registered with the program you will receive a phone call and email in the event of a public emergency.
If you are not already registered, take a moment now to register, it is free and the city is offering a prize of $1000 on a draw basis for those who register.
To register for the emergency program click this link.
HARMAC PULP MILL ASKS FOR TAX REDUCTION
It is reported in the local press that the management of financially troubled Harmac pulp mill have asked the City of Nanaimo to consider reducing their taxes by 50%.
Mayor Korpan is quoted as saying the city could not reduce one taxpayers rate without reducing all by the same amount. Other comments reported speculate that the tax reduction of nearly $2 million would neither make nor break the troubled industry.
In the meantime, another 26 workers have been laid off at the mill as they try to restructure their finances. It is also reported recently that a potential buyer was in town looking at the mill.
If the mill should close, it would be a huge impact on the local economy as all of the 500+ jobs are high paying jobs, and the mill contributes nearly $4 million dollars in local taxes.
Thursday, December 06, 2007
BOIL WATER ADVISORY STILL IN EFFECT
The following comes directly from the City of Nanaimo website. As of 9:00am today, the boil water advisory is still in effect.
From the City website:
High turbidity levels have been detected in the drinking water supply. High turbidity (cloudiness) levels may occur in surface water sources due to seasonal weather changes causing excessive surface runoff, flooding or lake turnover. High turbidity has been associated with higher occurrences of intestinal illness.
Water users are advised to bring all water to a rolling boil for at least one minute and let it cool before using it or use bottled water. Until further notice, boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking, making ice or fountain drinks, brushing teeth and for preparing food that will not be cooked. We will inform you when you no longer need to boil your water. Please check our website at www.nanaimo.ca or listen to 102.3 the Wave for the most up-to-date information. Vancouver Island Health Authority has additional information regarding boil water notices at http://www.viha.ca/mho/environment/water_quality/boil_water/
Wednesday, December 05, 2007
SANTA VISITS DOWNTOWN NANAIMO
This Friday, Dec. 7 at 3:00 pm Santa, Mrs. Claus and the elves will arrive downtown via West Coast Air. Free hot chocolate is available for all.
The group goes from there to Port Theatre for some festive crafts and holiday treats.
In the evening, there will be a parade along Commercial St. and Church St. with the jolly ole guy and several other entrants.
Canada Post will be collecting letters to Santa along the parade route, the parade starts at 7:00 pm.
Tuesday, December 04, 2007
BOIL WATER ADVISORY IN EFFECT
As a Nanaimo resident who registered for the Emergency Alert Program with the City of Nanaimo, I received an automated phone call at 9:15am advising that a boil water advisory had been issued.
The VIHA website did not have an alert listed as of 9:15 am but I would expect their site to be updated soon. Residents are advised to listen to 102.3 FM for further advice.
HOW TO BOIL WATER
(the following comes from the VIHA website)
Tap water should be boiled for one minute. Use any clean pot or kettle. Kettles that have automatic shut offs are acceptable.
After boiling, let the water cool by leaving it on the counter or in the refrigerator in covered containers. After water is boiled it can be stored in food grade containers at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
You can bring back flavour by shaking water in a container, pouring the water between two containers, and/or adding a pinch of salt.
COUNCIL VOTES TO SPEND $200,000
TO RESTORE E.J.HUGHES MURAL
The local press reported that city council has reversed a previous decision and are now going to spend $200,000 to restore the 1938 mural which used to be in the old Malaspina Hotel.
The restored mural will hang in the new convention centre.
Comment: In the recent budget draft city manager Jerry Berry blames senior government downloading of responsibility as a main factor in the rising tax increases in Nanaimo. This $200,000 expenditure can hardly be blamed on senior governments.
MUDDY WATER COULD LEAD TO A BOIL WATER ADVISORY
WITH ALL THE SNOW MELT AND RAIN
With all the quickly melting snow and the heavy rains we have been getting there is the possibility that drinking water in Nanaimo may become cloudy or muddy.
Officials are monitoring water quality and will post a 'boil water advisory' if they deem it necessary.
To check if a boil water advisory is in effect check the VIHA website here.
Monday, December 03, 2007
NANAIMO WIND AND RAIN WARNING
BRINGS LOTS OF RAIN
After the significant snowfall over the weekend, Nanaimo can now expect lots of rain. This combined with quickly melting snow could cause local rivers to flood their banks. Anyone who has basement flooding problems should keep a close eye on things also.
The following warnings have been issued by Environment Canada this morning:
Saturday, December 01, 2007
NANAIMO SNOW WARNING
The weather office issued the following snow warning this morning. We missed the last snowfall predicted but we might not be as fortunate this time. So remember to leave your car at home if either you or it, are not ready for winter driving.
Environment Canada weather warning:
SNOWFALL AMOUNTS OF 15 TO 25 CM OVER EAST AND INLAND VANCOUVER ISLAND AND 5 TO 15 CM ELSEWHERE BY SUNDAY MORNING. THIS IS A WARNING THAT SIGNIFICANT SNOWFALL IS EXPECTED OR OCCURRING IN THESE REGIONS. MONITOR WEATHER CONDITIONS..LISTEN FOR UPDATED STATEMENTS.
Thursday, November 29, 2007
BC FERRIES FINANCIAL RESULTS
BC FERRIES RELEASES
“These earnings allow us to continue our extensive fleet and asset renewal program to ensure the ongoing safety and reliability of our operations,” said BC Ferries’ President and CEO, David L. Hahn. “Our commitment to rebuilding our infrastructure is already showing positive results with two new ships added to the fleet last year and significant upgrades well underway at many of our terminals, including extensive modifications to prepare for the arrival of our three new Super C-class vessels entering service next year.”
For the six months ended
At
Despite the reduction in the deferred fuel cost accounts, BC Ferries continues to be concerned about the high cost of fuel. The company has implemented a wide variety of fuel reduction measures and is continuing to look for ways to further reduce its fuel consumption.
The full financial statements, including notes and Management’s Discussion and Analysis, are filed on SEDAR and will be available at www.sedar.com.
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
COASTAL RENAISSANCE PROGRESS
This snapshot of the current position of the Coastal Renaissance taken the morning of Nov. 28/07 shows the ship off the Mexican coast.
The next scheduled stop for the newest BC Ferry is Ensenada Mexico. The ship is making good time and currently travelling at 15 knots.
To view the Coastal Renaissance progress visit the BC Ferry website here.
NANAIMO COULD GET MORE SNOW TODAY
Environment Canada has issued the following snowfall warning:
A TOTAL OF 10 TO 20 CM OF SNOW IS EXPECTED BY THIS EVENING FOR INLAND VANCOUVER ISLAND AND OVER HIGH TERRAIN OF EAST VANCOUVER ISLAND. A TOTAL OF 5 TO 10 CM OF SNOW IS EXPECTED BY THIS EVENING OVER HIGH TERRAIN OF GREATER VANCOUVER. THIS IS A WARNING THAT SIGNIFICANT SNOWFALL IS EXPECTED OR OCCURRING IN THESE REGIONS. MONITOR WEATHER CONDITIONS..LISTEN FOR UPDATED STATEMENTS.
It would be a good idea to make alternate travel plans if your car does not have good snow tires or chains. Make sure you have a snow brush and scraper in your car, and a small snow shovel in the trunk can always come in handy.
Be sure to pick up some hot chocolate and wood for the fireplace on the way home, that way you can enjoy the winter wonderland to the maximum, should the weatherman be right.
BC GETS TOUGHER WITH SMOKERS
“We are working to reduce tobacco use across our province and ensuring that British Columbians are protected from the deadly effects of second-hand smoke,” said Abbott. “Stricter regulations about public and workplace smoking are part of our strategy to reduce the impact of tobacco on our health system and prevent chronic diseases associated with tobacco use.”
The new regulations fall under the Tobacco Control Act and will take effect on
· Smoking in all indoor public spaces and work places, with exemptions made for the ceremonial use of tobacco by Aboriginal people;
· Smoking within three metres of public and workplace doorways, open windows or air intakes;
· Tobacco sales in public buildings including: hospitals and health facilities, universities and colleges, athletic and recreational facilities, and provincial government buildings;
· Display of tobacco products in all places where tobacco is sold that are accessible to youth under 19; and
· Tobacco ads that hang from the ceiling, countertop tobacco displays, self-serve tobacco displays and outdoor tobacco signs.
These new provincial regulations will establish a baseline of regulation that landlords, businesses, municipalities and health authorities can choose to exceed to fit the needs of their community, clients and population. Unless prohibited by municipal regulations, smoking will still be allowed on the outdoor patios of restaurants and bars.
The new regulations will take effect on
“Eliminating smoking in public spaces and all workplaces will have a positive impact on indoor air quality and the overall health of British Columbians,” said provincial health officer Dr. Perry Kendall. “Most smokers start before the age of 18 and limiting youth access to advertising is also an important step in protecting the public health of this province.”
Tobacco use kills over 6,000 British Columbians each year, and is estimated to cost the B.C. economy $2.3 billion every year. Cigarette smoking is the primary risk factor for diseases of the circulatory system, cancers and respiratory diseases, and exposure to second-hand smoke kills approximately 100 people in B.C. each year.
“Tobacco use is the single most preventable cause of disease and death in British Columbia and, unfortunately, the number of new cancer cases is estimated to rise this year in the province,” said Barbara Kaminsky, CEO of the BC and Yukon Division of the Canadian Cancer Society. “Exposure to second-hand smoke increases our risk of cancer and implementing regulations that restrict exposure to the harmful effects of tobacco use is a significant step in our fight against cancer.”
In September 2007, legislation took effect that banned tobacco use in schools and on school grounds and in October 2008, implementation of smoke-free premise policies in all health authorities will be complete.
The Ministry of Health currently funds smoking cessation programs such as QuitNow.ca and QuitNow by Phone, which are available, with translation services in 130 languages, 24 hours a day, seven days a week to all British Columbians.
The new legislation supports the Province’s larger tobacco control strategy and programs such as
The new tobacco control regulation will be available on-line at www.health.gov.bc.ca/tobacco/.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
FIRST TASTE OF WINTER FOR NANAIMO
For some peculiar reason the precipitation falling on Nanaimo late yesterday decided to change form into a rare looking white substance. I am told other parts of Canada are very familiar with this strange material and have adapted different means of dealing with it.
For Nanaimo residents adopting some of these habits could be helpful, however it is easy to forget since snow is such a rare occurence. A few reminders which could be helpful:
If your tires are bald, you might want to consider taking a cab or bus.
Footware with good traction are a great idea.
Clearing any snow or frost from your car windows makes for safer driving.
Remembering you can not control your car on snow or ice the same as you can on dry pavement.
Putting a bit of salt or sand on walkways can avoid nasty slips.
Allowing yourself extra time to get to your destination so you can slow down.
Be of good cheer as we all know this 'snow stuff' seldom last for more than a day or two.