The dismantling of the Comox Strathcona Regional District has shown the Campbell Government’s contempt of democracy, according to North Island MLA Claire Trevena.

“The whole issue was pushed through without consultation. Now the regional district has been dismantled and two new entities established by the stroke of a pen,” said Trevena.

The latest orders-in-council have announced the formal establishment through Letters Patent, of the Strathcona Regional District and Comox Valley Regional District.

“There’s been no space for debate in the communities or in the Legislature – instead it’s just been announced through an order-in-council."

“And we still do not know what the cost will be to the residents of the communities affected by the new structure. It shows an untold arrogance from the Minister for Community Services and by the Premier who is ultimately responsible.”

Under the changes there is also an amalgamation of some of the rural seats, creating unwieldy areas which will be difficult for the elected officials to properly represent.

Trevena plans to raise the concerns in the Legislature when it resumes sitting next week and through the budget process this spring.