DSC_1180

Ducks in a row,on the Nicola river , December 3rd 2013 File photo KDG

The new normal for the 21st century. The provincial government released its finding for the response to emergency conditions this week. Called addressing the New Normal for the 21st century ,the review has called for 109 changes.

The review process involved a number of public engagement sessions focussed on planning and preparedness, prevention and mitigation, response, and recovery. Feedback was obtained through one-on-one meetings with key stakeholders (including local governments), community events, online engagement, and written submissions. In April, information was analyzed and used to form the final report, including recommendations.

Among the recommendations are a number of options for the Province to enhance partnerships with local governments. These include: support towards local emergency plans; better clarification around roles and responsibilities during an emergency; and establishing workshops and forums to help support information sharing, understanding, and identification of policy gaps. There is also an emphasis on a more streamlined and efficient response and recovery process.

The recommendations include 14 ‘strategic shift’ recommendations. These recommendations suggest actions that would significantly amend current policy. Among the ‘strategic shifts’ are: proposals to develop strategic partnerships with community members (e.g. ranchers, forestry contractors, landowners) to provide additional response capacity during emergencies; building a robust emergency communications website that includes all necessary information from government as well as emergency updates; and increasing the use of prescribed burning as a safety and prevention tool.

It is reported that 19 of the recommendations are in process of implementation at this time. The new normal for the 21st century.

 

On this Day: May 16th 1929

The first Academy Awards  are presented to merit winning nominees.