VANCOUVER – An inquest into a fatal fire at an illegal Vancouver rooming house begins today, but friends of the victims worry it may sidestep significant issues linked to the tragedy.
Pastor Barry Morris says the inquest may not be allowed to examine the problem of finding safe, affordable housing in Vancouver.
He says the lack of housing is a city-wide issue, but speculates the coroner may decide that aspect of the problem is beyond the scope of the inquest.
Garland McKay, Dwayne Rasmussen and Stephen Yellowquill died in the December 2010 fire, while another man was badly burned.
An investigation revealed city inspectors repeatedly warned the landlord about bylaw infractions, but the owner’s business licence was never revoked.
A faulty extension cord has been blamed for sparking the blaze in a closed back patio of the rundown home, killing the men as they slept. (CKNW)
Local news from metronews.ca/vancouver
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