Coralee Oakes, MLA for Cariboo-North has added Shadow Minister for Emergency Management and Climate Readiness to her existing role as Shadow Minister of Advanced Education.
The role was held by Lorne Doerkson, MLA for Cariboo-Chilcotin, until he crossed the floor to join the BC Conservative Party.
If elected in October, a BC United government would update the province's wildfire-fighting policies and expand the province's aircraft and fire suppression technology, a BC United news release said.
“Having witnessed firsthand the devastation of wildfires and their aftermath, I know too well the challenges our communities face during and after such crises,” Oakes said in the release.
The BC United policy plan also includes financial support for those who are evacuated from wildfire stricken areas the release says. It adds BC United would put focus on forestry including selective harvesting to reduce wildfire risks.
Oakes was first elected MLA in 2013 and served as the Minister of Community, Sports and Cultural Development under Premier Christy Clark. Prior to her election as MLA Oakes was a two-term Quesnel city councillor.
The next provincial election is scheduled to take place before October 19th.