Dear GV Editor:
The number 1 question that comes up every year about the DIRA Community Dock is- why do I have to pay to tie my boat up to the dock? The answer is you don’t, if it’s there 6 hrs. or less. If your boat is there longer than that, you pay because an island needs a dock and it costs money to maintain it. The original dock was torn down after it fell into disrepair because locals refused to pay to use it. Denman needs a dock to:
- Transport medical emergencies when the ferry or air ambulance is unavailable which is becoming more and more frequent. Without a dock, loading a patient from the shore to a heaving boat is not only dangerous but impossible!
- Allow RCMP and other Emergency Responders access to Denman by boat to deal with life saving emergencies when the ferry is unavailable.
- Evacuate large numbers of people during a disaster if the ferry can’t or won’t.
- Allow water taxis access to pick up those needing to get to Vancouver Island when the ferry is unavailable.
- Allow those with boats and even float planes easy access and somewhere secure to leave their boat or plane. Without a dock you would have to haul your boat out after each use or anchor it.
- Allow Fishers to come and sell their products direct to islanders.
- Generate revenue from tourists who come and visit.
- For recreational opportunities for fishing, crabbing, swimming, lounging, storm watching etc.
As well, the boat ramp and green space is a well used facility that any island would be lucky to have. Those waiting for the ferry, walking their dog or needing somewhere to meet friends that has an incredible view and easy access to the beach use it frequently.
The DIRA Dock is not government funded and needs users to pay for the privilege of having this incredible amenity. An island without a dock is like being completely reliant on BC Ferries!
