----- Original Message -----
From: Lyn MacDonald
To: Gail.Dawson@gems2.gov.bc.ca
Cc: Animal Advocates
Sent: Sunday, July 10, 2005 8:34 PM
Subject: Dear Hon. Wally Oppal re: Anti - SLAPP Legislation
June 10th, 2005
Attention: Honourable Wally Oppal
Please reinstate anti - SLAPP legislation in B.C.
Large organizations like the BC SPCA have the power, money, and will, to silence their critics.
Smaller organizations such as Animal Advocates Society, cannot speak out without fear of reprisal. The smaller groups or individuals who have a SLAPP suit imposed on them face financial ruin, before the case even gets to court.
This is undemocratic and seriously undermines our freedom of speech.
Further, the BC SPCA is spending thousands of dollars donated in good faith for the welfare of animals, to silence it's critics.
Please reinstate the anti - SLAPP legislation.
Sincerely,
Lyn MacDonald
Salt Spring Island