‘Tumbler Ridge is not alone’: Peace River South MLA leads historic throne speech response
Peace River South MLA Larry Neufeld was selected by the NDP government to be the first member to respond to the speech from the throne on February 17th.
TUMBLER RIDGE, B.C. — Peace River South MLA Larry Neufeld made legislative history on February 17th, becoming the first opposition MLA to respond to a speech from the throne.
The unprecedented moment came during the second session of the 43rd parliament on Tuesday, February 17th, one week after the deadly shooting in Tumbler Ridge.
Neufeld used his response to focus on the grieving community.
“Exactly one week ago, our community changed forever,” he told the legislature.
“The English language does not contain words with enough impact or strength to begin describing the wake of last week and the impact that it has had on our community.”
He said he has spent the past week in Tumbler Ridge with families and first responders.
“I have stood with families whose worlds have been shattered. I have sat in silence where there were no words to offer,” he said. “In these darkest moments, I saw strength. I saw love.”
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Neufeld also acknowledged the long road ahead.
“The fabric of your community has been torn… and it will never be the same,” he said, pledging to continue pushing for long-term mental health and community supports.
“I will remain with you in the weeks, months and years ahead… Tumbler Ridge is strong. Tumbler Ridge is not alone.”
The February 10th shooting at a local residence and Tumbler Ridge Secondary School left nine people, including the suspect, dead and over two dozen others injured.
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