----- Original Message -----
From: diane young
To: Gail.Dawson@gems2.gov.bc.ca
Sent: Thursday, July 14, 2005 7:04 AM
Subject: Anti SLAPP legislation

To: The Honourable Wally Oppal

Victoria, B. C.

Dear Hon. Oppal:

I am very sad to learn that the above law was thrown out by the government in 200l. I am very proud to be a Canadian because we have freedom of speech in our country where in other countries they are thrown in jail for speaking out.

Please inform me why this legislation was thrown out. Was it to give more power to the SPCA? I have also learned that the SPCA is suing a very small rescue organization, Animal Advocates and some of it's hardworking volunteers that help do the work the SPCA doesn't. I have witnessed animals being abused physically and mentally that the SPCA does not help because they have a filthy, slimy water bowl with a crumbling, leaky dog house that is so wet, dirty and small the dogs can't lie in it but the SPCA calls this shelter. The dogs are usually always tethered on a rope, chain or confined to a small boxed area or in a dark basement or garage for years. When a committed rescue group tries to help these suffering animals and speaks out against who is NOT, namely the SPCA, the SPCA then turns around and sues the group and/or individual for speaking out. Any organization that speaks out with constructive criticism and documented proof that they are not fulfilling their obligations are doing so hoping that it will eventually fall on ears that will listen and bring about healthy changes to animal welfare. There is a grave injustice being committed here to the little people who don't have DONOR'S MONEY to spend on lawyers fees. The SPCA sees fit to spend this money trying to silence those that are committed to honourable animal welfare. How now can these little people be protected against this?

Please inform me how to work at getting this legislation reinstated. I too am a volunteer for a rescue organization and I speak out all the time never fearing retribution as I know that our country has FREEDOM OF SPEECH.

I look forward to hearing from you as soon as possible as the lawyer bills are mounting for Animal Advocates and they need this money for vet bills and medications, etc. for the animals. The SPCA should refocus on their mandate and use the money for which it is intended - the animals.

Thank you.

Yours truly,

Diane Young
Port Coquitlam, B. C.

P.S. I will forward a copy of this email to my MLA and Animal Advocates.