Media Alert - Update on Cohen Commission timelines: Public forums starting in
August, evidentiary hearings begin October 25, interim report expected by
October 29

VANCOUVER, July 28 /CNW/ - The Cohen Commission of Inquiry into the Decline of Sockeye Salmon in the Fraser River is planning a series of public forums in communities along the Fraser River and the sockeye's migratory route, where members of the public can make brief presentations to the Commissioner. The commission will begin evidentiary hearings on October 25, 2010, and has requested and been granted an extension from the Governor General in Council to submit its interim report, now due by October 29, 2010.

    
    Public Forums
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The commission will hold a series of public forums to provide an opportunity for community members to share information with the commission they believe to be relevant to the mandate(http://cohencommission.ca/en/TermsOfReference.php) of the commission. Members of the public wishing to present at a public forum must apply through the commission's website at www.cohencommission.ca.

Forums are scheduled for Lillooet (August 18), Campbell River (August 25), Steveston/Richmond (September 13), Victoria (September 16), New Westminster (September 20), Prince George (September 23), Chilliwack (September 29) and Kamloops (October 21). Further details will be available from the commission soon.

The Commissioner will also be conducting site visits that will provide him context and information regarding various aspects of the Fraser River sockeye salmon fishery. More information for media about the site visits will be available from the commission soon.

    
    Evidentiary Hearings
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Evidentiary hearings will begin Monday, October 25 through mid- December. Hearings may continue in the new year if required. These hearings are open to the public and will be held at the Federal Court at 701 West Georgia Street, 8th floor. Media recording or broadcasting of the hearings may be allowed with advance arrangements. To discuss, contact Carla Shore at 604-658-3646 or [email protected].

    
    About the Cohen Commission
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The Cohen Commission (www.cohencommission.ca) was established on November 5, 2009 with the appointment of the Honourable Bruce Cohen as Commissioner. Under its Terms of Reference, the commission will hold hearings to investigate and report on the decline of sockeye salmon in the Fraser River. Based on its findings, the commission will make recommendations for improving the future sustainability of the sockeye salmon fishery in the Fraser River, including, as required, any changes to the policies, practices and procedures of the Department of Fisheries and Oceans in relation to the management of the Fraser River sockeye salmon fishery.

For further information: Media Contact: Carla S. Shore, Communications Director, Cohen Commission of Inquiry, Phone: [phone], Cell: 604-329-0975, Email: [email protected]