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.