New guidance supports local governments to address the unequal impacts of disasters
Vancouver B.C. – B.C’s Human Rights Commissioner has released new guidance for municipalities and regional districts to apply a human rights-based approach to emergency management plans. The Commissioner’s Rights Under Pressure: Guidance on Applying a Human Rights-Based Approach to Emergency Management provides practical guidance on how emergency plans can mitigate the unequal impacts of disasters, address the rise of hate and gender-based violence after times of crisis and improve access to mental health services. The guidance comes in advance of emergency planning requirements in the Emergency and Disaster Management Act (EDMA) taking effect in January 2027, which includes the requirement for local governments to take measures to mitigate the adverse effects of an emergency on individuals who may experience intersectional disadvantage.
British Columbia has experienced unprecedented disasters since 2020, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the deadly heat dome and atmospheric rivers in 2021, and the devastating wildfires in 2023. Disasters such as these can create conditions which pose a serious risk to fundamental human rights. “While these disasters impact all of us, crises can also deepen inequities and place the most severe impact on marginalized communities, such as increases in hate, higher rates of gender-based violence and mental health challenges,” said Commissioner Kasari Govender. “Adopting a human rights-based approach to emergency and disaster plans empowers local authorities and governments to develop response measures that prevent inadvertently perpetuating inequality or worsening disaster impacts.”
Today’s release builds on the Commissioner’s inquiry into the rise of hate during the COVID-19 pandemic, which contains 12 recommendations primarily aimed at the Government of British Columbia to take actions against the rise of hate during times of societal crisis. The Commissioner eighth recommendation from the inquiry calls on the Province to incorporate a human rights-based approach to existing emergency response procedures. To be effective, an all-of-society approach is necessary with collaboration between all levels of government and the social sector, including nonprofit organizations, charities, frontline and outreach services. The guidance offers promising practices aimed at helping emergency planners address both the short and long term human rights issues arising from emergency events.
“It is indisputable that hate and violence increase in times of societal crisis; the question is really what we do about it. The upcoming legal requirement for local governments to incorporate an equity lens in emergency response plans recognizes these risks and compels local governments to act. Our Guidance provides practical approaches to implementing this requirement,” said Commissioner Kasari Govender. “With these commitments to human-rights based emergency planning, we can enhance resilience and support recovery grounded in dignity, justice and the full range of human rights.”
Related resources
• Rights Under Pressure: Guidance on Applying a Human Rights-Based Approach to Emergency Management
• From Hate to Hope, BC's Office of the Human Rights Commissioner
• Emergency management legislation, Province of British Columbia
Media contact
For more information or to request interviews with Commissioner Kasari Govender, please contact
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Visit our media kit for images of Commissioner Kasari Govender, pronunciation guidance, bios and more.
About BCOHRC
BC’s Office of the Human Rights Commissioner exists to address the root causes of inequality, discrimination and injustice in B.C. by shifting laws, policies, practices and cultures. We do this work through education, research, advocacy, inquiry and monitoring. Learn more at: bchumanrights.ca.
About the Commissioner
Kasari Govender began her work as B.C.’s first independent human rights commissioner in September 2019. As an independent officer of the Legislature, Commissioner Govender is uniquely positioned to ensure human rights in B.C. are protected, respected and advanced on a systemic level. Her work through BC’s Office of the Human Rights Commissioner has included public inquiries into experiences of hate in the pandemic and detentions under the Adult Guardianship Act, a report on systemic discrimination in policing, community embedded research about a range of human rights issues experienced by people living in British Columbia, public awareness campaigns about ableism and racism and guidance to government that, among other things, informed the creation of both the Anti-Racism Data Act and the Anti-Racism Act. Commissioner Govender was reappointed for a second term beginning in September 2024.
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Site C Project Nearing Completion as Final Construction Work Continues
By Peace FM / ChetTV News
Update as of June 2026
The John Horgan Dam and Generating Station, formerly the Site C Clean Energy Project, is about 94 per cent complete with just a few construction projects remaining before the large hydroelectric development is fully complete. Work on the Diversion Tunnel Outlet Portals is expected to be completed by July 2026, according to BC Hydro. The Cultural Centre, the final major active construction element of the project, is expected to be completed next year. Several recreational and access improvements are already complete and open to the public, including the D.A. Thomas Road and Day Use Area, giving residents and visitors new opportunities to explore the area around the reservoir.
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“The project has moved from a major construction project to a fully operational generating station that will deliver clean electricity for generations to come,” says BC Hydro. The reservoir behind the dam, called Dreamers Lake, is one of the most prominent features of the finished project. The name reflects the vision and determination of those who helped bring the project to reality, and acknowledges the region’s continuing connection to the Peace River. The John Horgan Dam and Generating Station officially opened its doors on August 8, 2025, nearly a decade after construction began in the summer of 2015.
The facility is the third dam and hydroelectric generating station on the Peace River, located in northeastern Britishof 500,000 homes annually across the province. "The John Horgan Dam and Generating Station will provide British Columbia with clean, reliable and affordable electricity for more than 100 years,” BC Hydro says. Columbia. The installed capacity is between 1,100 and 1,230 megawatts and it generates about 5,100 gigawatt-hours of electricity each year, enough to power the equivalent
The project secured federal and provincial environmental approvals in October 2014, before construction formally started a year later. Since then thousands of workers have helped build one of the largest infrastructure projects in B.C. history.
As the remaining construction work moves toward completion, the project is entering its final phase, leaving behind a legacy of renewable energy production, new recreational opportunities, and long-term benefits for British Columbia's growing electricity needs.
For more information about the project, visit the BC Hydro Site C Project website.
https://www.bchydro.com/energy-in-bc/projects/john-horgan-dam.html?rd=john-horgan-dam
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BC Minimum Wage Increase Takes Effect June 1, 2026
British Columbia’s minimum wage officially increased to $18.25 per hour on June 1, 2026, which is a 2.1% increase from the previous rate of $17.85 per hour. The adjustment is linked to the province’s annual inflation rate — a system to help workers keep up with the cost of living as it continues to rise. The hike puts British Columbia among the provinces with the highest minimum wages in Canada and impacts thousands of workers in a broad spectrum of industries.
Supporting Workers Amid Rising Costs
The annual wage increase aims to provide more financial security to lower-income workers still struggling with affordability. The province is linking minimum wage increases to inflation to ensure pay keeps pace with rising prices for basic goods and services.
The increase also applies to a handful of worker groups, including resident caretakers, live-in camp leaders, live-in home-support workers and app-based ride-hailing and delivery workers.
Implications for employers
The rise in wages brings in more money for workers, but many small and independent businesses are finding it difficult to absorb the increased costs of labour. But the effects often ripple beyond minimum wage workers, says the BC Chamber of Commerce. This can put pressure on businesses to increase wages in some positions to keep the gap between entry level staff , supervisors and experienced staff. Higher wages can also lead to increased employer costs in the form of Canada Pension Plan (CPP) contributions, Employment Insurance (EI) premiums, WorkSafeBC premiums, paid sick leave and statutory holiday pay.
Challenges for Small Businesses
For many local businesses operating on slim margins, small increases in labour costs can have a huge impact on day-to-day operations. Higher costs could force some employers to reduce staffing, reduce employee hours, delay hiring plans or postpone business investment.
The BC Chamber of Commerce says many business owners are already facing inflation, rising operating costs and ongoing workforce challenges. Especially hard hit by the cumulative impact of these pressures are independent retailers, restaurants and service-based businesses.
Looking to the Future
Annual indexing of minimum wage to inflation provides predictability for workers and employers. But it also points to the need for continued support of small businesses as they face higher costs, while also remaining competitive and viable.
As British Columbia moves forward, the conversation around affordability, workforce retention, and economic growth will continue to be important for employers, employees, and communities alike.
For more information read: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2026LBR0002-000191
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Tansi 5K Colour Run Draws More Than 100 Participants in Colourful Community Celebration
CHETWYND, B.C. — May 30, 2026, More than 100 participants of all ages came together this weekend for the successful Tansi 5K Colour Run, creating a vibrant, memorable community event filled with fitness, fun and friendship. The family-friendly event attracted runners and walkers from across the community, including participants of all ages, from young children to seniors. As runners made their way along the course they were showered with colourful powder adding some excitement and energy to every step of the journey.
The organizers couldn't have been happier with the turnout—and it wasn’t just about the number of people who showed up. The energy from the community was incredible. People weren't just moving for the sake of fitness; they were out there connecting, celebrating what it means to belong, and just having fun together. Everyone who made it across the 5K finish line got a medal, a little token to remember the day and their effort. After the run, the crowd stuck around for a free barbecue. That’s where people really came together—runners, volunteers, families, all swapping stories and enjoying the moment. During the event, a few people got some extra cheers.
Organizers handed out Certificates of Appreciation for the First Finisher, the Youngest and Oldest Runners, the Most Colourful Participant, and the team that truly brought the Best Team Spirit. Each award got a big round of applause and lots of smiles. There was laughter, paint everywhere, and you could feel this strong community vibe in every moment and photo. That’s what made the day really special. With so many people showing up and everyone so excited, organizers are already talking about next year. They want to see the Tansi 5K Colour Run become a tradition in Chetwynd—something people look forward to, year after year. This first run felt like the start of something lasting: a day for colour, connection, and a whole lot of celebrating what makes the community strong.
Youtube Link:
Highlights : https://youtu.be/8Zusc0zJyBc
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Sunrise Expansion Project Expected to Create Jobs Near Chetwynd
CHETWYND, B.C. – Construction on the Sunrise Expansion Program, a major upgrade to the southern portion of the Westcoast natural gas pipeline system, could begin as early as July, bringing employment opportunities and economic benefits to the Peace Region.
The Sunrise Expansion Program is designed to meet growing demand for natural gas by increasing the capacity of the existing pipeline system. The project includes the installation of new pipeline segments and additional compression facilities at existing compressor stations throughout British Columbia.
Representatives for the Sunrise Expansion Program hosted a community coffee chat in Chetwynd on May 26, 2026 to help inform residents about the project. The event provided local residents, businesses and community stakeholders the opportunity to learn more about the project, ask questions and discuss potential employment and business opportunities related to the development.
Three of the four new compressor units will be electric-powered as part of the project, requiring new power lines. Preparatory activities such as site setup and transport of equipment and construction materials may occur prior to the start of major construction activities.
Work in the Peace River Regional District will focus on the installation of a natural gas-powered compressor unit at Compressor Station 2B (CS-2B), north of Azouzetta Lake, approximately 70 kilometres southwest of Chetwynd. A site for a temporary workforce accommodation camp will be developed in the Pine Pass area to house workers who will be involved in the project.
“Construction of the project will generate 2,500 jobs across BC and more than 100 workers will be employed at peak construction at CS-2B alone,” project officials say.
Local businesses such as restaurants, accommodations and service providers are expected to benefit from the influx of workers. It is also expected to generate tax revenues for provincial, regional and municipal governments, to support public services such as schools, hospitals, roads and other infrastructure.
Local workers, contractors, businesses and accommodation providers interested in participating in the project are invited to complete the online Community Interest Form for the project.
Construction is scheduled to continue through 2028 with the Sunrise Expansion Program scheduled to be complete by the end of that year. The expansion will also add another 300 million cubic feet per day of natural gas transportation capacity to the Westcoast pipeline system once in service.
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