Here is my letter that I sent to Sidney, I encourage others impacted to as well.
Hello,
As an annual boat launch pass holder I am beyond disappointed with this measure.
I myself am an essential worker, so luckily I still have a job. Nevertheless my income has been severely impacted by the pandemic, and the future of my industry and career are very much in doubt.
My three young children have been house bound for nearly 2 months. My kids can't play with their friends, go to school, play their sports, or even go to the park. The one thing they can do is go out as a family on the boat, following all of the public health measures. We also are able to fish for crab and pawns, halibut, and as of May 1st bottom fish such as ling cod. This goes a long way to preserving our sanity as well as helping to feed us as finances are much tighter than they used to be. Meanwhile, we are following all of the public health guidance and social distancing orders.
I understand there has been an appeal from the coast guard to close the launch, but there is no basis to this. Covid case loads are very low on the island, and despite their claims there has not been an increase in coast guard calls. Many of the lower mainland boat launches that had previously been closed during the pandemic are in fact reopening.
It is also important to realize BC has recognized fishing and hunting, and the subsistance benefits they afford us as essential activities. They are not to be restricted.
Meanwhile, those that are wealthy enough to afford moorage in one of the many nearby marinas are free to carry on with no restriction.
I implore you to reconsider this decision, at least at this time. Should the covid situation on the island deteriorate in the future, revisit the option at that time.
I await your response,
Sincerely,
Ryan ******