Forestry Critic Ward Stamer demands Attorney General Niki Sharma unequivocally denounce the reckless and criminal act of tree spiking in Fairy Creek

BC Conservative forests critic Ward Stamer, MLA for Kamloops North-Thompson, is demanding that Attorney General Niki Sharma unequivocally denounce the reckless and criminal act of tree spiking in Fairy Creek. The recent RCMP bulletin warning of ceramic tree spikes in the area has raised serious concerns about the safety of forestry workers.

“This is not just an act of vandalism - this is attempted murder,” said Stamer. “Hardworking British Columbians in the forestry industry are already facing serious challenges with NDP mismanagement pushing our industry to the verge of collapse. Now, their lives are being put at risk by depraved fanatics who have no regard for safety. Tree spiking is a reckless, despicable act, carried out by those who have no respect for human life or the livelihoods of the people who rely on our forests.”

Tree spiking involves embedding metal spikes into trees, which can cause sawmill equipment to explode on impact, sending deadly shrapnel flying at high speeds. The use of ceramic spikes is particularly concerning as they are undetectable by traditional metal detectors, making it even harder to prevent injuries or fatalities. Ceramic spikes are even more dangerous as they explode in the bush, far from medical aid.

Stamer is calling Attorney General Sharma to take a clear stance against this deadly practice. “The silence from the AG on this issue is unacceptable,” Stamer said. “If she truly cares about environmental responsibility, she must also condemn the actions of extremists who put lives at risk. Her failure to do so only emboldens those who think terrorism is an acceptable form of protest.”

Stamer is also calling on the NDP government to:

• Appoint a special prosecutor to pursue offenders committing acts of eco-terrorism.
• Ensure law enforcement has the resources needed to investigate and prosecute offenders.
• Immediately review safety protocols in the forestry sector to prevent future harm.

 “The government has a duty to protect our loggers and mill workers,” Stamer concluded.

“Conservatives will always stand up for workers’ rights, job security, and ­­­­­­- most importantly - their safety. I call on Sharma to show that she stands with law-abiding British Columbians and denounces these despicable terrorist acts.”