In the Nov. 27 Oak Bay News article, SPCA wants deer cull off the table, I am described as being “the lone dissenter” on the decision by Oak Bay Council to support staff Option 2, one of three options presented in a Nov. 12 staff report.
Options 2 and 3 recommend that Oak Bay signs onto the CRD’s Deer Management Pilot Project, which includes a deer cull among other steps and strategies related to animal control and public education. But the article does not provide the context that explains my support of Option 3 that states: “Indicate to the CRD that the district is prepared to participate in the proposed Deer Management Pilot Project, subject to any additional requests or conditions that council may ask the CRD to consider.”
I supported Option 3 as a preferred course of action because I believe it would give Oak Bay the opportunity to gather further public and professional input, enable us to continue to assess the impacts urban deer are having specific to Oak Bay and, if necessary, monitor and adjust the conditions and terms of reference of the pilot project so that it would more effectively target Oak Bay’s needs related to public health and safety.
As we can see, further dialogue across the region is ongoing as to the benefits and liabilities of a deer cull. It is important to track this information, gather new science and facts as they become available and always remain open to further dialogue with residents.
In the Oak Bay News article of Nov. 19, Bye-Bye Bambi, the context for my position is provided, and I am quoted as saying: “I just felt (Option 3) would allow more flexibility, allow Oak Bay greater ongoing input,” adding that Green wanted that flexibility in writing. … “I think it (Option 3) would add a bit more strength for local input and local influence.”
I also referenced my decision and my reasons for supporting Option 3 on my weekly blog following the Nov. 18 council meeting.
Coun. Cairine Green
Oak Bay