Almost two weeks after being appointed British Columbia's top bureaucrat, Jessica McDonald has introduced herself to the provincial civil service. In an email authored on June 13, Ms. McDonald, the deputy minister to the premier, outlines her career in the government, stating that over "the past 15 years, I have served within our ranks at various stages as a junior researcher, a middle-level excluded manager, and as a senior executive before accepting this appointment." She even notes that "Before beginning my career, I also served as both a legislative page and a legislative intern." Not mentioned, though, is her stint as a well-paid land-use consultant, contracting her services out to government. A version of this article was originally published in today's edition of 24 hours. The following is a copy of Ms. McDonald's email, which was leaked to Public Eye.

Message from Jessica McDonald
Deputy Minister to the Premier
Public Service Week
June 12 - 18, 2005

My fellow members of the public service,

I am pleased that one of my first duties as head of the public service is to celebrate Public Service Week with you and to take this opportunity to introduce myself to those who may not know me.

Over the past 15 years, I have served within our ranks at various stages as a junior researcher, a middle-level excluded manager, and as a senior executive before accepting this appointment. Before beginning my career, I also served as both a legislative page and a legislative intern.

I am very proud of being a public servant. That pride springs from my belief that the work we do is essential to the well being of all British Columbians and from the effort that each one of you puts into your job. Thank you for your hard work and dedication.

British Columbia is distinct in many ways and service to its people, the land and environment, is a very rewarding duty. I recognize that every day, and in diverse capacities and fields of work, each of you strives to make a difference. I will do all I can to help you make that difference.

I want you to know that strengthening the public service and increasing the public’s awareness of the high quality of service you provide will be a primary focus of my attention over the coming years. I really look forward to working with you and supporting the good work that you do.