Author

Robyn Bell

Drugs

Island toxic drug deaths hit two-year low last year

Robyn Bell
Feb 5, 2025

The Island recorded 446 toxic drug deaths, with the province hitting a four-year low of 2,253 deaths.

Education

Education minister fires Victoria School Board en masse

Robyn Bell
Jan 31, 2025

The board has been accused of governance issues, not assisting a special adviser, and failing to work with community partners.

Environment

Multiple conservation groups sue Feds over delay in protecting Southern Resident killer whales

Robyn Bell
Jan 30, 2025

The groups argue that DFO and the environment ministry must recommend an emergency order to cabinet immediately.

Immigration

BC climate activist faces deportation again—this time due to lost paperwork

Robyn Bell
Jan 21, 2025

Zain Haq is set to be deported on Saturday after the IRCC told him it can't find his residency application

Policing

Data on VicPD’s use of force show overrepresentation of Indigenous people

Robyn Bell
Jan 16, 2025

Use of force against Indigenous people made up 17% of incidents, despite only representing 5% of the capital's population.

Environment

Salmon numbers are up at Goldstream—but development could threaten conservation efforts

Robyn Bell
Jan 15, 2025

The planned $162M median expansion of the Malahat Corridor could result in loss of trees and hotter stream temperatures, says First Nation.

Books

The most popular books at Victoria libraries in 2024

Robyn Bell
Jan 10, 2025

Adults continue to love historical fiction, while teens are influenced by BookTok.

Ocean

One sea sponge near the Island could give insight into our changing oceans

Robyn Bell
Jan 8, 2025

Belinda the sponge is proving that sea sponges are more active—and resilient—than previously thought