Message from the Minister and
Accountability Statement

After extensive consultation and careful planning, this government brought in the Forestry Revitalization Plan — comprehensive reforms to revitalize British Columbia's forest sector. In 2003/2004 we brought in the legislative changes to make the new policies work on the ground; in 2004/2005 we started implementation.

Already we are seeing positive change:

New and expanded community forest opportunities for 29 communities since August 2004.

• Market-based pricing on the Coast.
• Increasing volumes of timber offered competitively through BC Timber Sales (BCTS).
• Award of the first two new community salvage licences.
• BC Forestry Revitalization Trust Fund — administered by a board established to assist workers and contractors affected by timber reallocation.
• Implementation of all Firestorm 2003 report recommendations.
• Forestry agreements with more than 93 First Nations.

We will continue our two-track strategy of negotiation and litigation as we pursue a resolution to the softwood lumber dispute. We will also continue to support industry in developing new foreign markets through innovative initiatives such as Dream Home China.

With the expansion of range management and operations to the core business of the Ministry, a renewed emphasis will be placed on the health, restoration and management of rangelands and crown forage throughout the Province.

We have also taken steps to ensure that this Ministry brings together a range of programs that play significant roles in creating a continuum of housing and supports, and in creating a stable foundation upon which our housing continuum is built. The new department provides government with an opportunity to challenge the status quo and find new ways to provide safe, affordable housing options for all British Columbians.

Housing responsibilities include the development of a comprehensive provincial housing strategy and implementation plan for approval by Cabinet. As well the Ministry will continue to implement the Provincial Homelessness Initiative in conjunction with the Premier's Task Force on Homelessness, Mental Illness and Addictions and continue the implementation of the Integrated Call Centre for the Residential Tenancy Office. Finally, I will lead the Ministry to develop a long-term strategy to rationalize and modernize the building safety regulatory system.

This year's service plan outlines a continuation of these and other strategies that have already begun to revitalize B.C.'s economy. This plan will guide us as we work towards a strong, competitive and environmentally sustainable forest sector and a more cutting-edge housing management suite of policies in British Columbia.

The Ministry of Forests and Range and Minister Responsible for Housing 2005/06–2007/08 Service Plan Update September 2005 was prepared under my direction in accordance with the Budget Transparency and Accountability Act. I am accountable for the basis on which the plan has been prepared. All material fiscal assumptions and policy decisions as of September 2, 2005 have been considered in preparing the plan and I am accountable for achieving the specific objectives in the plan.

Honourable Rich Coleman
Minister of Forests and Range
and Minister Responsible for Housing

September 2, 2005