Randi-Marie Adams
Legion

PG Legion excluded from the circuit breaker business relief grant

May 21, 2021 | 5:18 AM

PRINCE GEORGE – In a letter to the Premier, the Royal Canadian Legion has asked why John Horgan chose to exclude legions from the Circuit Breaker Grant Program, despite them being impacted by health orders relating to the newest restrictions.

The BC Liberals called out the NDP government on this just last week.

“As a proud Legion member, I know that British Columbia’s legions offer more than support and services for our veterans, they are integral parts of our communities. Many host local events and gatherings, serve as voting stations during elections, and offer vital resources to help our veterans,” said Shirley Bond, Interim Leader of the Official Opposition. “It’s astounding that legions across the province are unable to access this vital support. I’m calling on John Horgan and his government to rectify this situation immediately.”

The Royal Canadian Legion provides an integral service to communities across the province, supporting veterans, seniors, local community organizations, and youth groups each year. They are also stewards of the annual Poppy Campaign and local Remembrance Day ceremonies honoring those who served and sacrificed for Canada.

John Scott, who is the service officer for the Prince George branch, says he is frustrated.

” They say we are a not for profit and for some reason, they have decided that not for profit, are ineligible and I just can’t understand that.” Said Scott. ” We’re a business, the fact is, what we do with our finances is really our business.”

Scott says they run like a business just like anyone else.

“I guess it’s disrespectful, yes because we exist for veterans and that’s why we are a non-profit,” said Scott. ” We have poppy funds, and people seem to think that we use poppy funds to operate our business, we don’t, we are not allowed to by law, we can’t use a cent of that for our business.”

To generate some sort of revenue – the PG legion is doing take-out Thursday to Saturday weekly. If you are interested in showing your support, head to the Prince George Canadian Legion for more information.