Letters to the Editor: February

B.C. Premier Eby and the Editor:

An appeal for retaliatory tariff exemption for Point Roberts, Washington, on a humanitarian basis:

As you know, President Trump has threatened a 25 percent tariff against Canada for an alleged trade imbalance, and Canadian premiers have resolved to enact countermeasures in retaliation.

These countermeasures have been reported to include products and services such as hydroelectric power, lumber, water, oil and gas, and minerals as well as suggesting a campaign to encourage Canadians to cease travel and purchases in the U.S. All of these actions on both sides of the border would have a significant negative effect on their economies and none more so than Point Roberts.

You will remember that Point Roberts, in particular, was devastated economically by the 20-month COVID-19 border lockdown and has never recovered to this day. Point Roberts’ geographic location, an exclave separated from the rest of the continental U.S., places its residents in a uniquely vulnerable situation as their potable water and domestic electricity comes solely from Canada. Any disruption in these essential services would negatively affect the health and safety of Point Roberts residents, and effectively close Point Roberts once again.

There is much more we could say on the retaliation issue consequences. We appeal to your government’s generosity and sense of fair treatment on a humanitarian basis and request an exemption from any retaliatory economic actions for Point Roberts. We are prepared to meet with your representatives to discuss our concerns at your pleasure. Thank you for your consideration.

Brian Calder

Point Roberts

The Editor:

During our postal strike in Canada in December, I wanted to mail two Christmas cards, one to Japan and one to Scotland. I arrived through the border and went to your post office to find that its wickets were closed. I saw this lady go in obviously to pick something up and asked if she would do me a huge favor.

I explained my plight and she said she would do it so I gave her the two cards and seven dollars to mail them. I thanked her and a few days later after the Canadian strike was over, I received a card in the mail, which said “Blessings,” with two dollars and a receipt. The name written on the card was Frances.

 So, whoever you are, Frances, this is for you. I want to thank you for your kindness, thoughtfulness and for helping out a stranger. It meant a lot to me and just to let you know I would have done the same thing.

Happy New Year to you and here’s hoping for good health for you and your

family.

Joyce Simpson

White Rock