FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 16, 2025
Kris McNichol Attends Packed Public Safety Town Hall in Nanoose Bay
NANOOSE BAY, BC — Conservative candidate Kris McNichol attended a standing-room-only town hall in Nanoose Bay on April 15th, where more than 300 concerned residents gathered to discuss public safety and the proposed use of 1888 Kaye Road.
The meeting came in the wake of two violent home invasions in the Oceanside region that left families shaken and raised serious questions about the state of mental health and addiction supports — and the impact of Canada’s broken bail and justice system.
Kris McNichol was present to hear directly from the community.
“As a candidate and member of this community, it’s my job to show up and listen,” said McNichol. “People are scared, and they feel abandoned by the systems that are supposed to protect them.”
The event was attended by several local leaders, demonstrating the importance and urgency of the issue. Among the elected officials present were:
- Parksville City Councillors: Joel Grenz, Adam Fras, Sylvia Martin, and Sean Wood
- Qualicum Beach Councillor: Scott Harrison
- Qualicum First Nation Chief: Michael Recalma
- RDN Directors: Leanne Salter, Bob Rogers, and Lehann Wallace
- Lantzville Mayor: Mark Swain
“Treatment facilities are necessary,” said Josh Dahling, co-founder of Lumara, a registered charity that provides education and support to people dealing with serious illness, grief and bereavement. “But they can’t succeed without policies that support them. Kris is here tonight fighting for those policies—policies that protect our communities while ensuring people get the help they need.”
McNichol emphasized that the Conservative Party supports real, effective rehabilitation and treatment facilities — but not at the expense of public safety. He called for an end to the catch-and-release system and a top-down federal approach that prioritizes safety while supporting recovery.
“This is not about turning our backs on people who need help,” McNichol said. “It’s about protecting victims and giving communities a voice. Change starts in Ottawa — and I’m ready to be that voice.”
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