Mayor's Response to 2026 Provincial Budget

IMPORTANT PUBLIC NOTICE BY MAYOR BEERS

Yesterday, the Government of New Brunswick released its 2026 budget. While we, as New Brunswickers, are affected by the budget as a whole, there are two parts that directly affect those of us living in rural areas, especially here in Five Rivers.

The first part is a cut to provincial field veterinary and lab services. The second part is the imminent closure of the Bonar Law Common Heritage Site in Rexton.

Early this morning, I spoke with Minister Pat Finnigan about these announcements. Minister Finnigan is the MLA for Kent South, which includes Rexton, and the Minister of Agriculture, Agriculture and Fisheries. I expressed disapproval of the province's decision to cut veterinary and lab services, which directly affects access to care for large animals and threatens our food security, and a safe, affordable food supply for New Brunswickers. A letter will be sent to Minister Finnigan expressing this view.

I also spoke to Minister Finnigan about the planned closure this month of the Bonar Law Common Heritage Site. Bonar Law Common is a dynamic gathering place for events, summer camps, and celebrations, a very special place that embraces of the history of our community. A meeting is being arranged with Minister Isabelle Thériault, the Minister of Tourism, Heritage, and Culture for the province, to discuss opportunities to keep this beautiful historic site open to the public.

We will update you as we find out more information about both matters.

Tina Beers,

Mayor, Five Rivers