Show guts, ban raw log exports

Dear Editor: Dan Albas in his most recent MP Report (Herald, May 4 )purports to explain why raw logs are allowed by the provincial and federal governments to be exported rather than be†processed in B.C.

Then, in true political fashion, as only one who we elect can do, he proceeds to avoid the question and recites the procedure to obtain an export permit.

He, of course, sits on the fence as to whether this should be allowed.

In all fairness to him, I’m sure that if any elected representative of the Liberal, Conservative or BC Liberal party was asked the same question, they, too, would uncomfortably perch on the picket rather than risk the ire of their leader or those who are engaged in this practice.

Whether mills wish to buy logs harvested for processing really begs the question as to whether we as a society should allow it.

Its very simple; the log, once cut, will be processed. The question is where and whose workers will be paid to do it — Canadian or offshore?

The export of raw logs employs people in B.C., but how much more would be employed were the practice banned?

There can’t be a lot of incentive to a large timber company to invest in new mill technology and construction if good money can be made by simply cutting the logs down and loading them on Asia-bound ships.

Albas asks why no political party once in power has banned the practice.

The answer is in the mirror. Politicians love selfies, rallies and adoring crowds. Few. if any. like risky or what could be unpopular policies.

We don’t have stateswomen anymore, we have craven individuals who make big salaries and are solely concerned with protecting their backsides. Jim Herperger West Kelowna the rest of British Columbia?

Yes, he did this and he did that, except did he really do all that he claims to have done or does he have a gigantic ego and a gift for wrongly taking credit for things?

In my first Penticton-based election, I was faced with two bad choices in Ashton and Tarik Sayeed and a late newcomer in the Green candidate. I am thankful that Tarik wasn’t elected considering he has let down Penticton but why would anyone vote for Ashton and why did Elvena Slump practically endorse him?

So he shows some common sense and listens to her but has he done right by Penticton or this province? He hasn't shown leadership on the parks issue here in Penticton and in the Okanagan and barely got in the game when the schools were being closed.

Frankly, I am ashamed of those people who voted for the Liberals or the NDP when neither party has ever put the people or the province ahead of their ambitions and desires. Patrick Longworth Penticton