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Grateful to live, work and play on the traditional territory of the W̱SÁNEĆ people.

Support the Campaign

Re-elect

Irene McConkey

for North Saanich Council

Keeping it Real · Keeping it Rural

Why I am seeking re-election

Four years ago, I was motivated to run for Council due to my concerns about the previous Official Community Plan review process and the direction it was taking. After a shift in approach and an extensive consultation process, our Official Community Plan was adopted in July of 2025. But there is more important work that needs to be done and that starts with our Zoning Bylaw. 

 

We need to ensure North Saanich remains rural and stop urban sprawl. To that end the District must remain outside of the CRD’s Urban Containment Boundary. We need to maintain the District’s natural splendor for residents from across the region to come and enjoy.

We must support our local farmers to promote sustainability and food security. We are proud of the unique family farms that are the backbone of our community.

And, keep it real, by using the expertise we have within the community rather than relying on expensive outside consultants. This way decisions will be guided by the community and tax dollars will be saved.

 

The values I have stood for over the past four years are the same values I will carry forward if re-elected. I believe in staying true to what matters to our community and continuing on that path.

Why this is so important, now

Once we lose farmland, green space or parks, we can never get them back. Wanting to preserve them doesn't mean being stuck in the past; it's the opposite. I believe our community can be innovative in finding ways to promote sustainability, support local farmers and keep North Saanich naturally spectacular. We can be a model for others to follow.

What I stand for

  • Keeping North Saanich Rural.

  • Advocating for our community.

  • Being accountable for how your tax dollars are spent.

  • Listening to residents and acting on their concerns.

Where I've Been Working for You

Keeping it real means doing the work, not just talking about it. These are the committees and working groups I've served on as your councillor.

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Chair of the Mayor's Official Community Plan Advisory Committee (MOCPAC), leading 21 community volunteers in shaping the vision and finalizing North Saanich's Official Community Plan.

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MOCPAC Working Groups:

  • Housing and Planning (Member)

  • Agriculture and Food Security (Member)

  • Climate, Ecology and Environment (Member)

  • Marine and Waterways (Member)

 

Council Liaison on:

  • Community Planning Advisory Committee

  • Local Government Labour Relations Association (formerly GVLRA)

  • CREST (Capital Region Emergency Services Telecommunications)

  • Indigenous Consultation Working Group

  • Community Stewardship Committee

  • Commission Review Working Group

Why I call North Saanich home

North Saanich is home to me, and it is a place I care deeply about. What I love about our community is its unique rural character — the working farmland, forests, trails, green spaces and ocean, and the people who make North Saanich such a special community to call home.

 

I believe protecting what makes this place special matters. Our farmland and natural spaces are part of our community’s identity and our future, and I believe we have a responsibility to look after them while supporting the people who live and work here.

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The values I bring to public service are pretty simple. I was raised with the belief that my word is my work—that when you give someone your word, you keep it, and that a handshake should still mean something. I believe in listening, treating people with respect, working hard, and doing what you say you are going to do.

 

My life outside of local government has shaped me just as much as my time in public service. I spent many years working as a telecommunications technician, work that taught me to solve problems, stay practical and, most importantly, work with people. I also spent 15 years supporting my mother as she grew older. Supporting her through those years was one of the most meaningful responsibilities of my life. Today, my husband and I have the privilege of continuing that spirit of caring by working together to support seniors in a retirement home. Those experiences have given me an even greater appreciation for the importance of community, connection and looking after one another.

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