Selina Robinson, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, has released the following statement regarding homeless campers at Goldstream Provincial Park:

“A plan is in place to provide shelter and housing for all homeless campers currently staying at Goldstream Provincial Park. People will begin to transition into housing and shelters on Oct. 1, 2018, and BC Parks will notify the public once the campground is ready to reopen. The day-use area and group sites remain open.

“Between now and Monday, BC Housing and outreach staff will continue to work with campers to match them with the right housing for their individual needs. Ultimately, our goal is to ensure the safety of everyone involved and assist campers in a respectful transition before the morning of Oct. 2, 2018, which is the expiry of the 14-day maximum stay at provincial parks.

“BC Housing and outreach staff will work to decamp the park and transition campers to shelter and housing. Transportation to housing and storage for personal belongings will be organized for campers starting Oct. 1, 2018. Outreach staff will assist campers in moving into shelter or housing prior to Oct. 1 as those opportunities arise.

“In the immediate term, Pacifica Housing will also continue to deliver daily outreach and provide harm reduction supplies and other necessities to the campers.

“BC Parks will work with BC Housing with the goal of achieving voluntary departure of the campers. In the event that people choose to remain past the Oct. 2 deadline, BC Parks will evict campers in accordance with parks policy, and in coordination with the RCMP, other ministries and outreach workers.”