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Pat Bay boat launch debate rising

North Saanich is exploring the idea of creating a public boat launch area at Pat Bay.

NORTH SAANICH — North Saanich Councillor Geoff Orr wants to invite the local First Nations to discussions about a proposed boat ramp in Pat Bay.

Orr, in a notice of motion at council’s April 20 meeting, suggested the District invite Chief Vern Jack of the Tseycum First Nation to a council committee meeting.

The invitation is being extended, Orr said, to include as many local interests in the proposal as possible — especially since a boat ramp could have an impact on the Tseycum traditional territory.

The District is exploring the idea of creating a public boat launch area at Pat Bay, following repeated public calls for such a facility in recent weeks.

At one public meeting last month, an estimated 60 people turned out to hear Brian Dunic present to council a proposal to complete the boat ramp.

North Saanich has been in discussion with the Victoria Airport Authority and the Peninsula Marine Access Group on the matter and face challenges to address, such as the neighbouring seaplane base.

Council will debate the merits of Orr’s motion at a future meeting.

— News staff