For Immediate Release
April 10, 2016 (Nanaimo): The Island Corridor Foundation is very pleased with the strong support for rail on Vancouver Island expressed by local government at the annual convention of the Association of Vancouver Island and Coastal Communities held April 8th and 9th at Nanaimo. A motion calling on the federal government to release the committed $7.5 million in federal infrastructure funds was overwhelmingly endorsed. The $20.9 million track infrastructure upgrade from Victoria to Courtenay is awaiting the final sign-off from Infrastructure Canada.
The ICF Directors have met with AVICC executive in the past and will continue to meet with them to build their relationship and work on common issues. “The ICF and AVICC has always had a very positive relationship and we value their input”, said co-chair Dr. Judith Sayers.
The Independent Not-for- Profit Corporation has also established a ‘Local Government Liaison Committee’ whereby members of councils and electoral area directors and the ICF can exchange information.
The committee stems from changes to legislation/court proceedings that have compromised the report back at the local government level, impacting clear and transparent communication i.e. elected officials are perceived to be in conflict when ICF or matters relating to the Corridor are addressed at their respective Council tables. In recent months, ICF Board Members have excused themselves from ICF presentations, stating a conflict and left the room.
“The ICF Board is and remains committed to working in partnership with stakeholders to meet the increasing interest in the ICF operations. With 11 First Nations, five regional districts and 14 municipalities and many community groups there are obviously varying regional and local concerns,” stated Sayers.
About the Island Corridor Foundation
The Island Corridor Foundation (ICF) is a self-funded, non-profit organization established specifically to preserve the 319 kilometre rail/trail corridor between Victoria and Courtenay, Duncan to Lake Cowichan and Parksville to Port Alberni. The corridor includes both rail and trail initiatives. Formed in 2003, the ICF is a registered charity, run by a Board of 12 Directors, representing 11 First Nations, five Regional Districts and two Directors-at-Large comprised of stakeholder communities along the Corridor.
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Media Contact:
Jenn Houtby-Ferguson
Twist Consulting
Email: Jenn@TwistConsulting.ca
Phone: 250-713-9849
