Interim Board of Directors to Launch New BC Wine Authority

"The wine industry in B.C. is one of our great success stories. It is a world-class industry," said Bell. "The interim board of directors will ensure the new British Columbia Wine Authority will be fully operational by late January."

The interim directors are:

·        Bob Ferguson of the Association of BC Winegrowers

·        David Godfrey of the Wine Islands Vintners Association

·        Tony Stewart of the BC Estate Winery Association

·        Scott Fraser of Andres Winery, representing large wineries

In addition, the authority will be chaired on an interim basis by Agriculture and Lands Deputy Minister Larry Pedersen.

The work of the chair and directors will also include developing a process for the transition from an interim board to a permanent one consisting of independent directors endorsed by the wine industry.

"I wish these experienced individuals all the best in their new roles," said Bell. "We all recognize the need to establish the B.C. Wine Authority right away, as we do not want to lose the momentum gained by the passage of the Wines of Marked Quality Regulation."

In March 2005, the B.C. government introduced new enforceable regulations and provincial standards for wines produced with 100 per cent B.C. grapes to ensure truth in labelling. This initiative helped the industry fully utilize the Canada and European Union trade agreement for spirits and wines.

"This is a very positive direction for our provincial wine standards and this will enable the B.C. Wine Institute to better promote the excellent wines produced right here in British Columbia," said B.C. Wine Institute chairman Gordon Fitzpatrick.

"Not only is the quality of British Columbia wine known throughout the world, our wineries contribute greatly to the local economy and to the tourism industry in rural communities," said Bell.