Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, has issued the following statement on the current wildfire situation in British Columbia:

Private liquor retailers are now allowed to sell their products to holders of special event permits to serve liquor at events such as community festivals, family gatherings and private functions.

The Province has appointed Michael Skinner, former lawyer and adjudicator, as ICBC’s new fairness officer, effective July 12, 2021.

Guide dog and service dog users requiring a dog to assist them with the tasks of daily living will now have enhanced public access rights and protections in place.

Local governments and First Nations in 54 communities have been approved to receive their share of more than $1.8 million in provincial emergency preparedness funding to support the work of emergency operations centres.

Pubs and licensed restaurants are now allowed to provide piña coladas with pizzas and mojitos with main courses for takeout or delivery.

Wildfires around B.C. are causing poor air quality in many areas of the province and are expected to worsen.

Five new prosecutors and two administrative support staff have been hired as part of the B.C. Prosecution Service’s organized crime unit to help tackle gun and gang violence in the province.