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Let’s stop fighting amongst ourselves
Letter to the Editor
A recent letter called into question my commitment to work as the MLA for Kootenay East on behalf of resident hunters.
Over the last 14 years I have worked hard to protect the right of rural people to use the land we live on. I have fought against those would shut us out of the bush, a powerful US Senator who wanted to make a park in the Flathead and have tried to represent the diverse interests of those who live here, work here and recreate here.
I’ve worked over the years with every minister in charge of the wildlife allocation file to advocate for resident hunters. In 2004, I had my Private Members Bill passed, the Heritage Right to Hunt and Fish.
The BC Wildlife Federation presented me with a Life Membership for that accomplishment and over the years I have steadfastly stood up for resident hunters, snowmobilers, quadders, hikers, for more access and for proper wildlife management that includes a more sensible, aggressive management of predators.
I have fought in a mostly urban world for the grizzly bear hunt. Most recently, I went public with my concerns about the proposed General Open Season for sheep in Region 4 for guides and persuaded government to eliminate that hunt.
I have tried to be fair to the guide outfitters because they are an important industry for our small rural communities and they, too, deserve to be heard. But I have always looked out for the resident hunter. Whether it’s the trail hound hunters, the sheep hunters or just the deer and elk hunters like me, I sit in on dozens of discussions in Victoria where often I am the only voice for hunters.
For 12 years, I was the only MLA in B.C. who bought a hunting license every year. Today there is one more, a BC Liberal from Prince George. Anyone who suggests that I am not a friend of resident hunters is either unaware of my record or is simply trying score political points.
As a member of cabinet, I support the allocation policy government has today. Both resident hunters and guides are unhappy with the policy, which may be a sign that it is balanced.
I urge resident hunters to work with other hunters, including guides, and focus on growing our wildlife populations, increasing habitat and to help me convince decision-makers that we need to better manage predators.
As hunters, we need to know who are friends are and to cooperate in protecting our right to hunt. Let’s stop fighting amongst ourselves and get some important work for wildlife done together.
Bill Bennett,
Kootenay East MLA
