Quw'utsun Newsletter - April 2024

Message from Chief Cindy Daniels

‘Uy’ skweyul Quw’utsun Mustimuhw:

Huy tseep q’u siiem to our Quw’utsun Mustimuhw for electing me to the position of Chief on March 7th for a four year term in our first election governed by our new Custom Election Law. I am committed to serving our people and I am very grateful for your support.

Congratulation as well to my fellow Council members, several of whom are new to the Council table: Christopher Alphonse, Francine Alphonse, Tasha Brooks, Jennifer Charlie, Troy Elliott, Audrey George, Howie George, Terri Nadine George, Calvin Swustus Jr., Calvin Swustus Sr., Amanda Sylvester, and Debra-Ann Toporowski. I am excited to work each of you. At our inauguration ceremony on March 13th, we took our Oaths of Office and signed our Council Codes of Conduct. We pledged to act with honour, respect our snuw’uy’ulh, work collaboratively, and to make decisions in the best interest of Quw’utsun Mustimuhw.

I have also had the pleasure of attending several special events over the first few weeks. The first was the Bear’s Lair competition hosted by Khowutzun Development Corporation. Our youth did an amazing job presenting their business cases. Congratulations to all the teams. I especially liked the Supernatural Hotel!

Councillors Calvin Swustus Sr., Debra-Ann Toporowski, youth representative Gabriel White and I also had the pleasure of receiving a special Orange Jersey on behalf of our nation from Montreal Alouette’s football Player Brock Gowanlock. Brock is originally from the Cowichan Valley and he took it upon himself to get permission from his team to present his warm up jersey to Cowichan Tribes. He spoke about how important it is to work hard to make your dreams a reality. Afterward, he hosted a flag football session with our youth.

Finally, I attended a special announcement made by the Premier David Eby on March 22nd, World Water Day, for $14 million in support of a new Cowichan Weir.

April Council meetings will be held on April 9 & 23, 2024.

Huy tseep q’u,

Chief Cindy Daniels

Message from Acting Chief Administrative Officer

‘Uy skweyul,

Alongside the April Quw’utsun Newsletter, we are pleased to provide our citizens with the second edition of the Cowichan Tribes Department Guide (Spring 2024). It is a reference guide for you to keep on hand until the fall, so that you have department contact information and ongoing program details at your fingertips. There is also information regarding our curbside collection program, Naloxone training and addictions supports, and emergency contacts. By creating our twice annual Department Guide, we are reducing the size of our monthly Quw’utsun Newsletter so the newsletter focus is on upcoming events, engagement, employment and training opportunities, seasonal information, and project and initiative updates.

I would like to recognize the hard work of our staff in supporting our community members in getting their First Nations Drinking Water Settlement Applications submitted by the deadline of March 7, 2024. Josephine Charlie has been assisting our citizens with their applications for many months and in the final weeks, some additional support was provided by Administration staff including: Gladys Harry, Kari Gonzales, Elizabeth Rice Campbell, Cheryl Page, Hilda August, Sharon Henry, Alana Joe, and Stephanie Atleo. We had a large intake of applications on March 7th and staff stayed until almost 10:00 pm to make sure all the applications were sent in before the midnight deadline. Huy tseep q’u for your hard work. I know our community members appreciated your assistance. For anyone with questions regarding their application, please contact the settlement administrator at 1-833-252-4220.

I also want to draw your attention an important health notice in this month’s newsletter. The Hwialusmutul’ Community Health Team is raising awareness about Measles and encouraging our families to ensure their children have their measles vaccines. Two doses are needed. To check if your children have their Measles vaccines or to book an appointment, please call (250) 715-1024.

Lastly, Cowichan Tribes Departments and service partners will once again be gathering at the Si’em Lelum Gymnasium for our Annual Open House. This is such an important opportunity for community members and staff to connect. Please save the date for our Annual Open House on Wednesday, May 15, 2024 from 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm. There will be lots of family fun as part of the festivities!

Huy ch q’u, Dana (Sunaxwumaat) Thorne, Acting CAO

ELECTION

COWICHAN TRIBES 2024

Slhexun sun’ts’a’ Clinic

121 Ingram St, Duncan BC

Phone (250) 715-3322 Text: (250) 508-7119

E-mail: clinic@cowichantribes.com

Dr. Elizabeth Plant, Addictions Specialist:

Dr. Plant is at Slhexun sun’ts’a’ Clinic on Monday and Thursday afternoons and can help members with chronic pain, or who are using opioids or need support for withdrawal.

OAT Therapy VS Safer Supply

Opioid Agonist Treatment (OAT):

Opioid Agonist Treatment (OAT) involves the use of different medications to prevent withdrawal and lower cravings for opioid drugs. Usually, the goal of traditional OAT is for a patient to stop taking drugs.

Safer Supply:

Safer supply refers to providing prescribed medications as a safer alternative to the toxic illegal drug supply to people who are at high risk of overdose, but not yet ready to stop using. Instead, they focus on meeting the existing needs of people who use drugs, reducing the risk of overdose by helping people to be less reliant on the toxic illegal drug supply, and providing connections to health and social services where possible and appropriate.

Other Services offered:

 Harm Reduction Supplies

 Take-home Naloxone kits and training

 Nursing support including basic wound care

 TB Testing



STI Testing

 Referrals to other services such as counseling, treatment coordinator

 Social Determinants of Health Worker for counseling, coordination and advocacy for wide range of care, resources and supports

 There is a Lounge for relaxing and staying warm on cold days (or cool on hot days!). Healthy snacks and water for community members accessing services.

Bringing Healthy Birth Back to Quw’utsun

Project Update: April 2024

Our Preterm Birth Study team is seeking a Research Assistant, in partnership with Quw’utsun Employment and Training (QET). Please use the QR Code to find out more about this posting! Closing date is Apr. 11th!

For more info about our research, please visit the Cowichan Tribes website!

We raise our hands to Elder Doreen Peter and First Nations Health Authority for this great article about community-led research!

The Quw’utsun Preterm Birth Study Team

Sul-hween Lydia Seymour, Sul-hween Doreen Peter, Brenda Yuen, Jen Murray

Research Advisory Committee: Maia Thomas, Eugenia Tinoco, Lynsey

Johnny, Marnie Elliott, Fairlie Mendoza, Barb Webster, Liz Spry, Joban Dhanoa, Ashley Simpson, Dr. Diane Sawchuck, Dr. Shannon Waters

Email:

brenda.yuen@cowichantribes.com

Ph: (250) 746-6184 ext. 4016

Click to learn more about this Research Assistant posting.

Youth Services Schedule ׀ April 2024

SUL-HWEEN SCHEDULE ׀ Liimus (April) 2024

The time when the wild geese fly in V formation

Have an idea for an activity for 2024? We want to hear from you!

Please contact Benecia, Activity Coordinator at (250) 715-3303.

Quw’utsun Syuw’entst Lelum’ - Culture and Education

‘Uy’ Skweyul Siiem nu Siiye’yu,

Quw’utsun Syuw’entst Lelum April 2024

Hello to all UCEP and Post-Secondary students,

It is a busy time for students enrolled in the spring semester. Assignments are due and exams are in the works for many of you. Of course, all students have a busy regimen with school life and rarely any time for activities outside of this. Please check your emails regularly as I send updates each month. Always reach out with any challenges you can’t bear alone. Since the start of 2024, we have worked hard to reach out to every sponsored student in order to update their file with their 2023 fall marks and 2024 full-time schedule. There have been some real concerns with students that are not following the student contract which they have signed, and this has resulted in some students being put on academic probation. By policy, this results in progress reports for at least one semester and their living allowance in cheque form, and only mailed or given once their progress reports are filled out each month by their instructors. Just a reminder of the responsibilities of your sponsorship in Post-Secondary:

I. I agree to abide by the academic policies of the University/College/Institute. I further agree to abide the Quwut’sun Syuw’entst Lelum Post-Secondary Program Policies & Procedures regarding attendance and academic performance.

2. My living allowance rate is set, and all Living Allowance disbursements are conditional upon fulfillment of regular, punctual attendance, maintaining a C+ or better in all my program courses. If my grades fall below the minimum requirement of a C+, I will be put on Academic Probation

3. I agree to deliver my transcripts immediately following each term completion, and I understand that my next Living Allowance cheque will not be released until it is received.

4. I agree to attend class on time and complete each day’s academic activities and homework assignments as set by each course instructor; failure to comply with the Institution guidelines will result in funding suspension. Should my funding be suspended, I understand this is effective for a period of up to two years.

5. Absence Due to Illness: I agree to notify the Institution by 8:30 a.m. and my Student Advisor at Quw’utsun Syuw’entst Lelum. Failure to do so will result in Loss of Pay on Living Allowance installments. If I am away for more than two consecutive days, I am required to submit a Doctor’s note to the Post-Secondary Advisor.

6. Living allowance will be distributed on the last Friday of each month.

I agree to notify the Post-Secondary Advisor immediately to report any changes in my domestic situation.

With the Easter Holidays fast approaching, I wish you and your families a Happy Easter and all the best with your studies. - Richard

REMINDER: Our offices are closed for Good Friday (March 29) and Holiday Easter Monday (April 1). Living allowances will still be deposited on Friday March 29, 2024.

Telephone: 250-715-1022

E-mail: Post.Secondary@cowichantribes.com

Quw’utsun Employment & Training

5760 Allenby Road , Duncan, BC V9L 5J1

Telephone (778) 422-2255

Fax: (778-) 422-1303

VIEW ALL QET OPPORTUNITIES ONLINE HERE

SUMMER STUDENT POSITIONS! APPLY HERE

The Summer Student Employment Program (SSEP) provides funding to provide a valuable work experience for students, experiential learning, and mentoring. The program is designed to help students develop and build transferable skills and / or find employment in their field of study. The goal of the program is to enhance students’ employability and to help finance their education.

ELIBILITY CRITERIA:

 Must be a Cowichan Tribes Status member

 Between the ages of 15 – 30 years of age

 Currently enrolled in school or current graduate

 Must have a valid SIN number



17 POSITIONS AVAILABLE

Salary Range: University/College Student $24.43; Upgrading Mature Student $22.13; High School Student $20.08

 Hours: Full-Time, Term (May 6, 2024 – August 23, 2024)

Please reply to the undersigned, quoting the reference number and position title. All applications and supporting documentation must be submitted prior to the deadline. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered. We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for further consideration will be contacted. Attention: Reference No. QET SSEP 0324 Quw’utsun Employment and Training, Email: william.viksush@cowichantribes.com

Social Development

Cowichan Tribes

SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT

5760 Allenby Road • Duncan, BC V9L 5J1

Telephone (778) 422-2255

Fax: (778-) 422-1303

April 23, 2024 cheque issue for May 2024

2023 Income Tax returns: All Social Development clients are required to complete 2023 income tax returns. The deadline to complete income tax returns is April 30, 2024.

CANADA REVENUE AGENCY IS INTERESTED IN SETTING UP AT COWICHAN TRIBES AND SPEAK TO MEMBERS REGARDING THEIR SERVICES. WE ARE WORKING TO PROVIDE SERVICE BC WITH SPACE TO SET UP THEIR SERVICE BC MOBILE SERVICE CENTRE.

Social Development will provide an update once confirmed

Social Development Reminders:

 Monthly renewal declarations are due by the 10th of each month. Please note that April 10, 2024, is on a Wednesday and that is the deadline;

 BC Hydro disconnection notice and most recent BC Hydro bill is required;

 Change reports required when a change in the home takes place - to avoid interruption in basic and shelter payments (rent, BC Hydro, Fortis);

 Designated Band Representatives Dora Swustus, and Lori Guerin, are available to support Cowichan Tribes members and children involved with child welfare;

 Pre-Employment Supports Program (PES) will continue into new fiscal year; and the program and team will be expanding;

 Quw’utsun Employment and Training program continues to support Cowichan members; the contact people are Lucy Shaw, Intake Worker, or William Viksush, QET Coordinator.

Thank you for your patience while Social Development transitioned Band Social Development Worker caseloads.

TUESDAYS - SEWING PROGRAM (full)

Facilitator - Sylvia Alphonse

Contact Angie for more info

 Time: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm

 April 9, 16, 23, 30, 2024

 Location: Prevention Building

 Contact Angie for more information

THURSDAYS HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS -





Facilitator -Angie Underwood

Time: 10:30 am2:00 pm

 Starts April 25 (10 sessions)



Location: Prevention Building

 Contact Angie for more info



REGISTER HERE

APRIL 2024

Swim Passes

 Swim passes available for Cowichan members.



Phone: (250) 715-3330

 Pick up at Prevention Building

WEDNESDAYSCULTURAL PROGRAM

“Learn to Harvest Cedar Bark for Weaving”





Facilitator - Darcy Joe

Time: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm

 April 17 - April 24 - May 1 - May 8



Location: Prevention Building

 Contact Angie for more info



REGISTER HERE

Citizenship & Tobacco Tax

APRIL 2024

Citizenship Committee

Elder Representatives

- Diane Modeste

- Philomena Williams

Youth Representatives

- Louie Johnnie

- Thomas Charlie Community Representatives

- Vacant

-Diana Elliott

-Lisa Daniels

-Johnny Crocker

Chief and Council representatives

-Cindy Daniels

-TBA

-TBA Technicians

Pauline Thorne

Tylia James

Citizenship committee meets April 18, 2024.

Applicants please submit by April 11, 2024.

Citizenship Department & Tobacco Tax

Announcement - Please welcome Tylia James back as the permanent Intake Worker for the Citizenship Department.

Tobacco Tax 2023

For citizens who have not applied for Tobacco Tax distribution previously for 2023, can still apply. Applications received prior to July 12, 2024, are eligible for the July 19, 2024, distribution.

Status Cards

There is still a wait list for the CIS (laminated cards). We will continue to take names. Cards will be done by appointment only.

SCIS (New secure cards) applications are being done in our office. Please call to make an appointment. There is no fee for this service.

*YOU ARE NOW ABLE TO USE YOUR BIRTH CERTIFICATE AS ID

Pictures

Can be taken in the Citizenship Department for the SCIS (Secured Status Card) at no cost to you and the CIS (laminated Status Card) for only $10.

Payments can be made in the Finance Department prior to your appointment.

Recently Have a Baby?

To register your baby for a Status Number, parents/ guardian can come in with the long form birth certificate, and parents/guardians ID.

Reminder to register your baby ASAP as baby’s medical is only covered under the Cowichan parent for the first 18 months for registration.

Once baby is registered, the next step is to apply for citizenship. The parent/ guardian applies when there is one Cowichan parent and one non Cowichan parent.

Citizenship Department

5760 Allenby Rd

Duncan, BC V9L 5J1

Phone: 236-800-4023

Email: membership@cowichantribes.com

Acting Citizenship Manager - Pauline Thorne

Citizenship Intake worker - Alana Joe

Citizenship Intake worker - Tylia James

Happy Birthday to our 401 Cowichan citizens born in April!

What is the IMB?

Kw’atl’kwa (Ocean) Updates

In 2019, the Indigenous Management Board (IMB) was established by the leadership of 11 Coastal Nations, including Cowichan Tribes, to address issues concerning the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve and the proposed southern Strait of Georgia National Marine Conservation Area Reserve (NMCAR). The goal of the IMB is to work collaboratively to support each of the individual nations to take up and take back their roles, responsibilities, and authorities for lands and waters in the southern Strait of Georgia. It is important to note that the IMB serves as a platform for collaborative efforts, with each Nation retaining sovereign and independent decision-making authority.

2024 Visioning Sessions

Two Visioning Sessions were held in January 2024 to determine community members’ objectives related to the management of these waters. These discussions identified common goals, including safeguarding territories and resources, supporting Indigenous governance, protecting culturally significant areas, and promoting ecological restoration and conservation. Additionally, research is underway for the feasibility assessment of the proposed NMCAR, focusing on concerns related to shipping, fishing, pollution, tourism, and Indigenous rights. A variety of options are currently being explored, including collaboration with Parks Canada or establishing Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas.

Proposed Governance Agreement

In February 2024, in recognition of Parks Canada’s limited authority when addressing the concerns of the IMB, Cowichan Tribes’ Chief and Council provided approval for Lulumexun staff to initiate negotiations for a Marine Governance Agreement with the federal and provincial governments. This proposed agreement would grant our nation the ability to lead discussions with the Crown, thereby upholding our unceded rights and decision-making authority.

What’s Next?

Looking ahead, IMB representatives will provide updates and seek guidance from each Nation's Leadership on progress regarding the NMCAR feasibility assessment and the negotiation of the Marine Governance Agreement. As this work unfolds, each nation will determine its preferred course of action.

For further information, please contact Erika Laanela, Cowichan Tribes’ Parks Canada Operations Engagement Advisor, at Erika.Laanela@cowichantribes.com

Training and Preparation

Kw’atl’kwa (Ocean) Updates

To continue building capacity, our S-hwuhwa’us Thi’lut Kw’atl’kwa crew dedicated the winter months to comprehensive training, both in-class and practical, aimed at enhancing our skills and preparedness.

Training included:

 Marine certifications for vessels up to 15t (new crew)

 Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER)

 Swift Water Rescue & Swift Water Awareness certificate

This training will expand our crew’s ability to monitor and protect Quw’utsun Tumuhw, while strengthening our ability to respond to emergency situations.

Sampling, Surveys, and Research

Our crew and biologists’ forage fish beach sampling efforts, slated to continue throughout the year, will soon be extending beyond Tl’ulpalus beach into Genoa Bay. Additionally, drone surveys aimed at locating herring spawns were recently conducted in the waters surrounding Salt Spring Island and Maple Bay. As summer approaches, we look forward to collaborating with the Pacific Salmon Foundation on herring related research projects.

Youth Outreach Initiatives

To foster connections with educators within the Quw’utsun Youth community, we will be hosting students from the Quw’utsun Hu-yi’xwule’ school, and some SD79 classes, for educational sessions focusing on beach and water conservation practices. Educators and youth interested in these experiences are encouraged to contact Kim, the S-hwuhwa’us Thi’lut Kw’atl’kwa program coordinator at Kimberly.lagimodiere@cowichantribes.com

Acoustic Monitoring Project

Funded by Transport Canada’s Quiet Vessel Initiative, our underwater acoustic monitoring project recently took a big step forward with the successful installation of the first of three hydrophones in Sansum Narrows. This project will monitor and assess the impact of underwater vessel noise on the marine environment. You can stay updated on this project by following us on Facebook.

Kw’atl’kwa (Ocean)

Updates Volunteer

The Mayne Island Conservancy: In partnership with the Hakai Institute as part of the Sentinels of Change program, is seeking volunteers for their larval Dungeness light trap work. For more info and to sign up, visit: https://mayneconservancy.ca/volunteer-opportunity/dungeness-crab-citizen-scientist

Somenos Marsh Wildlife Society: Volunteer Event, April 6, 9:00—12:00 learn about invasive and native species ,and the importance of stewardship work. Location: S’amunu Conservation Area. For more details, contact: Phaedra Douglas, at: phaedra@somenosmarsh.com

Rugged Coast Research Society: research, monitoring, education, and restoration of BC shorelines. Training provided. https://www.ruggedcoastresearchsociety.com/volunteer

Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre: no special qualifications required, training provided. https:// www.cowichanestuary.ca/volunteer/

Employment

Beaver Restoration Assistant - The BC Wildlife Federation is accepting applications assist with the 10,000 Wetlands Project, which aims to install 100 beaver dam analogues in BC to restore wetland and stream habitats. The position involves remote office work and extensive travel throughout BC. For full job description, visit: https://bcwf.bc.ca/current-opportunities/

FUTURE WORK OPPORTUNITY FOR QUW’UTSUN YOUTH: Help organize a Marine Community Forum for 2024. Contact John Stewart, Marine Projects Supervisor at (236) 800-4023, Ext 6023, or john.stewart@cowichantribes.com.

Events

British Columbia Conservation Foundation and VIU Workshop - Protecting Salmon from Tire Wear Toxins: Two days of interactive conversation and presentations regarding 6-PPDQ, a tire wear toxin impacting salmonids. April 29 and 30 in Nanaimo. To get event address and more program details, visit: http:// tinyurl.com/TWTWorkshop

The Wonders of the Salish Sea Speakers Series - hosted by Transition Salt Spring Marine Stewardship: Discover the wonders of the Salish Sea with the guidance of scientists, naturalists, and environmentalists. Learners of all knowledge levels are welcome. April 8 & 15 7PM - 9PM. To register and learn more, visit: https://wondersofthesalishsea.com/

Liimus tun’a xew’s lhqelts’

‘The new month is April’

A REMINDER TO TENANTS IN BAND RENTAL UNITS

Q: What are my responsibilities as a tenant?

A: Tenant responsibilities include:

 Paying rent in full and on time

 Reporting any hazards including fire, water or gas leaks (For all emergencies, please call 911 immediately)

 Maintain clean and sanitary conditions inside and outside of the rental unit

 Reporting all major and minor maintenance issues

 Reporting all Pest Control issues and working proactively with our department to eliminate pests in the unit by keeping up with regularly scheduled treatments.

PAYING RENT

Please remember, rent is due on or before the first of every month. Primary tenants are responsible for 100% of the rent and for paying rent on time. Rental payments directly affect our department’s ability to maintain our existing rental units and to build more rental units for those in need of housing.

HOW TO PAY RENT

Send an e-transfer to directdeposits@cowichantribes.com.

Please be sure to include the address and tenant name(s) the payment is for.

PEST CONTROL

Are you struggling with pests?

Common signs of BEDBUGS

 Clusters of small, red bites typically on the face, neck, hands and arms; bumps may be raised or flat

 Fecal stains, egg cases and shed skins in crevices and cracks on or near beds and mattresses

Keep garbage, recycling and other debris away from the perimeter of your home to reduce risk of pests.

Common signs of COCKROACHES

 A visual identification: seeing one anywhere in your home (if you see one, there’s at least 800 out of sight)

 Fecal matter is black specks on the walls

 Carcasses shed found in the home

Common signs of RODENTS

 Gnaw or bite marks in wires or insulation

 Rodent dropping around food packages, in drawers or cupboards and under the sink

 Nesting materials such as shredded paper, fabric or dried plant matter

If there are any signs of pests in your home, please contact the Sustainable Housing Department for support. If you have loved ones dealing with pests who are unable to call, please contact us on their behalf.

Meet our Maintenance Team

George Maintenance Worker

Jeff Bonar Asset and Project Manager

Each year, SHD receives more than 1500 service requests and spends hundreds of thousands of dollars on maintenance for rental units, Elder and private homes. Our team works diligently to serve the needs of the Quw’utsun community. We ask our valued community to show respect and follow policy when a maintenance worker is visiting your home.

PLEASE REMEMBER:

 Our Maintenance Team will not move personal belongings or debris in order to fix a maintenance issue. If you have items in the way of repair, our team is instructed to leave the home without completing the work.

 It is extremely important to keep personal items and debris away from your electrical panel. At least 1 meter of clearance is required around electrical panels.

 If a maintenance worker is in your home, please allow them the space to complete the work without interference. We appreciate your continued support of our Maintenance team.

Dennis Seymour Maintenance Manager

Frank Charlie Maintenance Worker

Marc Modeste Maintenance Worker

Dale Casey Maintenance Worker

Walter

CAPITAL PROJECTS

Mini-Pitch Playing Court Installation

You may have noticed some work happening on the soccer field in March.

We are preparing to install a mini-pitch playing field on a corner of the soccer field. The mini-pitch playing court will measure 50 feet by 96 feet and will include fencing, graphics both on the fencing and on the court, lighting, goals and basketball hoops. The play court will be asphalt with a walking path around the outside of the court as well as a paved pathway up to the court so it can be accessed and used by all mobility levels. The size of the court will accommodate five players on each team, and the mini-pitch will not impact the current soccer field size for tournaments.

This initiative is a partnership between Cowichan Tribes and Hope and Health, who is providing the mini-pitch court at no cost to us. The only costs incurred will be the costs for preparation of the field for the mini-pitch. Once construction is complete, Hope and Health will provide programming for youth of all ages to increase player development, game play techniques and coaching methodology.

The graphic banners around the goals and fencing has art work designed by local artist Maynard Johnny and the Cowichan Tribes logo will be at centre court. Construction will start in April 2024 to prep the area of the field for the court and pave. Installation of the mini-pitch system will start at the beginning of June and should take about a week to complete. Stay tuned for a grand opening celebration in the summer!

Pictures below are of a rendering of the mini-pitch as well as the artwork of the goal boards.

For more information on these projects please contact Lauren Miller in the Capital Projects Department at (250) 715-3302.