The head of a committee of rural TNRD directors is taking issue with proposed federal electoral boundary changes.

Tim Pennell, who represents Wells Gray Country, said the biggest proposed change to electoral boundaries will reduce the number of MPs within the TNRD from four down to three.

“The more representation you have in your area the better,” said Pennell. “Everyone views it that way.”

The Electoral Boundary Commission has proposed that 100 Mile House be included in the Chilliwack-Fraser Canyon riding, and Valemount moved to Prince George-Peace River. Chase would be shuffled out of Okanagan-Shuswap and into Kamloops-Thompson-Cariboo.

Federal electoral boundaries are reviewed every 10 years, based on census information. The commission proposes six new ridings be added to B.C. in growing areas of the Lower Mainland.

But a report from TNRD staff notes the redrawn ridings would place the Cherry Creek-Savona area in the Okanagan-Coquihalla riding and areas of the South Cariboo would go to a Chilliwack-based MP.

“It’s too far and there’s no relationship,” Pennell said.

A rural committee recommendation to oppose the changes will go to the entire TNRD board for a vote later this month.

The Electoral Boundary Commission is scheduled to meet in Kamloops on Oct. 11.