MIMISTER OF LANDS, FORES STS AND WATER RESOURCES

‘ . FHL Chel mere .
FE OF Steen HGH mst CML Re . =
. - . . VICTORIA
; . BRITISH COLUMBIA
CANACA

August 21, 1975

Mr. A. C. Kelly, Chairman,

Greater Vancouver Regional District,
2294 West 10th Avenue,

Vancouver, British Columbia.

Dear Mr. Kelly:

Thank you for your letter dated July 29, 1975 concerning
the Canada-British Columbia flood control Agreement. { canwell under-
Stand your concern in this matter. ; .

Earlier this year | was informed by the federal government
that they had funding constraints that would affect both the 1975-76
eProgram and the total program outlined in the flood control Agreement.
After discussion with Madame Sauve, | agreed that in the light of these
constraints the Fraser River Joint Advisory Board should review the program
and that, in any rescheduling, priority should: be given to rehabilitation
of the dykes. As you are well aware, a break in the main dykes could have
disastrous consequences for the Province and, for this reason, must be given
priority. -

The Advisory . Board has now reported back to Madame Sauve and
_myself with a number of recommendations. These recommendations are based
on our understanding of federal fiscal constraints and, as you point out,
this could mean substantial delay in the implementation o* essential
drainage works. While | am not happy with the situation, |! must take the
- position that if priorities are to be established, then first priority must: :
go to the dykes. . :

. I am enclosing a copy of my letter to Madame Sauve, outlining
our pasition.

! fully recognize that this creates a difficult situation for
a number of municipalities who have entered into agreements with the Province.
‘ However, these agrements are based on the availability of federal and
provincial funds and the simple fact is that federal constraints have placed
a limit on the immediate availability of these funds.