Item - Denis O'Gorman interview

1 DVD (37 min., 33 sec) : QuickTime H.264 files, Disc 1, Track 3 of 6

Item consists of Rick Searle interview with Denis O'Gorman. O’Gorman talks about his involvement with BC Parks as Assistant Deputy Minister responsible for BC Parks (1995-2001), his work with the Commission on Resources and Environment (CORE) (1992-1995), the Environment Land Use Secretariat (1976-1980) and Parks Canada (1971-1973). O’Gorman describes changes he saw in the field over the years, with the a good impetus in the 1970s, retrenchment in the 1980s and coalescence of the environmental movement in the 1990s. O’Gorman discusses his most memorable experiences and major accomplishments, including Purcell Wilderness Conservancy, Spatzsi, Tatshenshini-Alsek, Kitlope, the ceremony in Kitimat village, experiences with Chief Leonard George on Indian Arm and the cooperative management agreement.

O’Gorman would like to be remembered as someone who was committed to the organization, its people and its objectives. He feels he could have done a better job on communicating the importance, urgency and necessity of BC Parks to government investors. He feels today’s challenges center on organizational integrity, a predictable budget, attracting and retaining staff and infrastructure. In terms of doing things differently, O’Gorman would have liked more time for outreach, communication with non-government partners and stakeholders, more flex time, more thinking time and more time to spend with staff in the organization. He learned the importance of having a big vision and would like to see BC Parks expand opportunities its opportunities while addressing ecological integrity and capacity challenges. O’Gorman’s single biggest wish for BC Parks in the future is that it be given the resources it needs to do the job.

O’Gorman considers the following men amongst his mentors: Gordan Nelson (teacher), Vic Parker (Lower Mainland Regional Planning Board), Alistar Crerarr (Secretariat), Bob Williams, Harry Lash (GVRD), Jack Nichol (Parks Canada), Charlie Johnson (Forest Service, Pacific Regeneration Technologies), Phil Halcutt (Deputy Minister), Colin Campbell, Ray Travers (Secretariat).

Camera shots show Denis O’Gorman in a room with a plant in the background. Interviewer seen at very end.