WHEREAS local governments in British Columbia are contending with the increasing threat of the West Nile Virus, which can lead to serious health effects, including prolonged health problems and which, in severe cases, can be fatal; AND WHEREAS the City of Coquitlam appreciates the importance of implementing a coordinated approach to local prevention and response measures, including health education, in the defence against West Nile Virus; AND WHEREAS Health Authorities have the expertise to deal with health issues; AND WHEREAS the health of British Columbians is the responsibility of the Province of British Columbia and the Government of Canada and should remain so; AND WHEREAS funding grants available to local governments are not sufficient or guaranteed for the long term, to cover the costs needed to meet provincial expectations with respect to West Nile Virus preparedness; AND WHEREAS local governments should recover 100 of their costs associated with health activities directed by a public health authority: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Union of BC Municipalities encourage the provincial and federal governments to accept full responsibility, including funding, for all activities related to implementing local prevention and response measures, including public education, in the defence against West Nile Virus.
