Prince George is not on the initial list of northern communities which will host a Missing Women Commission of Inquiry forum.
From Sept. 12 to Sept. 15 the commission will be in the North holding informal community forums in Prince Rupert, Terrace, Kitwanga, Moricetown, Smithers and Hazelton.
"Obviously there are other communities that have been affected by the Highway of Tears," commission spokesperson Chris Friemond said. ".... more forums may be added in the week of Sept. 19, but no decisions have been made yet."
The formal mandate of the commission is to investigate the murders by convicted serial killer Robert William Pickton in the Lower Mainland between Jan. 23, 1997 and Feb. 5, 2002 . However, the commission is also charged with providing recommendations to improve how police and other agencies can respond to cases of missing and murdered women - including those along the Highway of Tears.
Commissioner Wally Oppal held a pre-hearing conference in Prince George in January. Family members of the women and girls missing and murdered along Highway 16 called on Oppal to support a separate inquiry into the cases.
Carrier Sekani Tribal Council Chief David Luggi said at this point he's not concerned the inquiry hasn't announced meetings east of Smithers.
"What I understand the commission is doing is talking to communities to see if there is an interest in them coming," Luggi said. "I believe they will announce more dates. This is nothing to get high blood pressure over."
Individuals interested in participating in the forums can register by e-mail at [email protected], phoning 1-877-681-4470 or mailing to 1402-808 Nelson St., Vancouver, B.C., V6Z 2H2. Registration must be completed by Sept. 8.
The deadline for sending a written submission is Nov. 30.
Formal hearings will begin in Vancouver on Oct. 11.
