J. Rice: Today we have the elected Chief Councillor Doug Neasloss in the House. Doug is the chief councillor of the Kitasoo/Xai’xais Nation from Klemtu on the central coast. He’s also the resource stewardship director. He’s been the lead tour guide for the spirit bear company that’s very successful in Klemtu right now, Spirit Bear Adventures. He’s been the band’s marine use planning coordinator. He’s a phenomenal photographer, and he’s one of those young, innovative and inspiring leaders — he’s my age — that has led his community to great successes, with 90 percent employment in Klemtu.

I would like to make the House make him feel welcome but also just acknowledge the phenomenal job that he’s done in the Spirit Bear Adventures company. It started, from what I understand, in a leaky boat and some pretty shabby accommodations to having high-end, high-class, Red Seal chef meals and first-rate accommodations. It’s a great place. If you ever want to see spirit bears, Doug’s the guy — central coast community, Klemtu