February 2006 Archives

The B.C. Road Builders and Heavy Construction Association is getting into the business of paving public support for the Campbell administration. According to a letter obtained exclusively by Public Eye, the association is organizing a "grassroots movement" known as the Livable BC Coalition "to sway public and political opinion in support of the government's transportation programs" - specifically its Gateway Project. The letter, which was written by road builders president Jack Davidson, invites supportive industry groups to join the coalition. Those that do will be asked "to present our transportation message to your members and have them relay the message to their employees." The letter also notes the coalition will "ask you and your members to attend important public events to show support for the Pacific Gateway and other important transportation projects."

Gordon Campbell's European healthcare tour has lost another member. The premier's chief of staff Martyn Brown has abandoned the tour following a personal tragedy. Our best wishes go out to him and his family. Last week, Health Minister George Abbott announced he wouldn't be participating "because he wants to be in Victoria to receive first-hand a government report on what went wrong in the care of 91-year-old Fanny Albo of Rossland" - as reported by The Vancouver Sun and the length and breadth of the provincial press pack. The remaining tour members are the premier's deputy chief of staff Lara Dauphinee, health strategic policy and intergovernmental relations assistant deputy minister Craig Knight and British Columbia's representative to the Health Council of Canada Les Vertesi.

As our astute readers will already know, supposed federal Liberal leadership candidate Stephane Dion will be making a campaign whistelstop in British Columbia this weekend. And, like Scott Brison before him, Mr. Dion will receive the honour of a reception hosted by former provincial cabinet minister Christy Clark and her uber-backroomer husband Mark Marissen. The following is an edited copy of the invite, which again notes "This is neither intended nor should be interpreted as an endorsement or support of any particular candidate for the upcoming leadership race in the Liberal Party of Canada but rather a chance to meet and help form the debate to ensure BC issues are front and centre."

Earlier, we reported British Columbia's federal Liberals invited a number of potential party leadership candidates to attend this weekend's president's council meeting. And, according to an email sent to council members today, former cabinet minister Stephane Dion has taken the Lotuslanders up on their offer. That message, which was authored by British Columbia party president Jamie Elmhirst, also notes there will be two executive motions coming up for debate at said meeting: one raising membership fees from $10 to $20 and the other increasing the number of membership forms available to party members. The following is a complete copy of that email, which was leaked to Public Eye.

Last week, the provincial New Democrats made much ado about child and youth officer Jane Morley's investigation into the "timelines, changes to terms of reference, and other matters relating to" the director's case review of Sherry Charlie's death. Specifically, children and family development critic Adrian Dix said the report proved "key recommendations were suppressed" and pointed to the "clear need for the reinstatement of an independent Children's Commission." So it was somewhat surprising that yesterday's questions period didn't include any inquires about Ms. Morley's review. When asked why, party leader Carole James explained "In fact, we've raised issues about MCFD all week. We've been raising issues with the media. And we'll continue to raise issues." Of course, Ms. James made that statement on Monday. And that means it would have been temporally impossible for her to have been raising issues about the ministry of children and family development all week. But we digress.

Will provincial Children and Family Development Minister Stan Hagen release Nicholas Simons from the confidentiality agreement that prevents him from talking about the Sherry Charlie case? That's the question we wanted the minister to answer earlier this afternoon. So your humble organ sent a note into legislature, requesting comment from Minister Hagen. But the Liberal frontbencher refused to leave the chambers because, according to communications director Kelly Gleeson, he was on house duty until 6:00. Fortunately we managed to catch Minister Hagen while he was taking a break from his duty in the speaker's corridor - just outside the chambers.

Nicholas Simons, the social worker who wrote the director's review into Sherry Charlie's death, is asking government for release from a confidentiality agreement that prevents him from talking about the case. That request follows Children and Family Development Minister Stan Hagen's statement that government could have "probably" chosen a better reviewer to complete the investigation, which was made public almost three years after Sherry's death. Such reviews are usually completed in two to six months. Minister Hagen was also quoted by The Times Colonist's Jeff Rud as saying Mr. Simons "to be blunt, I think got into the political aspect of this (case) even before he got elected." That's a reference to Mr. Simons's present post as a New Democrat MLA and his attempts during the investigation to look at ministry policies that might have contributed to Sherry's death, rather than focus on the practices that directly resulted in the tragedy - as is customarily the case.

Earlier, we noted the provincial government surtax on passenger vehicles priced over $49,000 would now only apply to cars and trucks valued at more than $55,000 - which means you can buy your BMW Z4 Roadsters and the Jaguar X-Types for a whole lot less. But, interestingly, this isn't the first time the Cambell administration has upped that surtax threshhold. In Finance Minister Colin Hansen's February 2005 budget, it increased from $47,000 to $49,000, costing taxpayers $5 million in annual revenue. And Gary Collins's July 2001 economic and fiscal update increased that threshhold from $32,000 to $47,000 at a cost of $40 million in revenue. Of course, it is entirely coincidental that the British Columbia Automobile Dealers Association (now the New Car Dealers Association of British Columbia) has contributed $391,269 to Liberal coffers since 1999, including a whopping $150,299 during the recent election.

Much breathless anticipation has surrounded the question of which federal Conservatives will have the honour of staffing the ministers' regional office in Vancouver. And now, according to our operatives, strong rumours are circulating Colin "Leather Jacket-Cool" Metcalfe has been given the nod to head that office up, being styled as its chief of staff. Mr. Metcalfe most recently managed Sam Sullivan's bid to become Vancouver's mayor and the Knowards campaign. And his hiring, if true, will be a victory for those who represent the grassroots wing of the Conservatives in British Columbia. Gossipmongers also report Jerra Byrne, who was the party's political operations officer for Western and Northern Canada, will be working as one of Mr. Metcalfe's assistants.

Last year, we reported on the arrival of Ian "The Iceman" Todd at the Rockpile as a ministerial assistant. Almost immediately, there was a blizzard of speculation that Mr. Todd - the former chief of staff to Canadian Alliance leader Stockwell Day - would soon be promoted to higher (unelected) office. But that didn't happen. And now we hear Mr. Todd left the precincts on Friday to serve as the chief of staff to federal Conservative Citizenship and Immigration Minister Monte Solberg - a posting reported in this week's edition of The Hill Times.

Kamloops radio station CHNL's motto is "news as it happens." But it seems, this morning, the broadcaster was a little behind the times. According to one of our astute readers, the station reported "Premier Gordon Campbell says today he plans to be all ears with an open mind as he and Health Minister George Abbott go visiting four European countries to find out how they are managed their healthcare systems - the premier pointing out that the only way to get some answers is to ask questions." Minister Abbott, of course, announced on Friday he wouldn't be going on that tour because "he wants to be in Victoria to receive first-hand a government report on what went wrong in the care of 91-year-old Fanny Albo of Rossland" - as reported on B1 of The Vancouver Sun this Saturday and by numerous other organs across the province.

Earlier, we reported on former provincial cabinet minister Christy Clark's reception for supposed federal Liberal leadership candidate Scott Brison. But other contenders may soon be making campaign whistestops in British Columbia. According to our operatives, his competitiors have been invited to attend the province's upcoming president's council meeting, scheduled for March 4 at the Plaza 500 Hotel in "Vancouver's upscale West side" (as described by its Website).

She coulda' been a contender in Novemeber's civic election. But former provincial cabinet minister Christy Clark is still gonna be somebody on talk radio. According to our operatives, she'll be guest hosting on CKNW when Bill Good is unavailable with her first appearance being scheduled for March 6. As our astute readers will remember, Ms. Clark was previously considered a shoe-in to replace departing afternoon show host Jennifer Mather. But those plans fell through when the station filled that time slot with Charles Adler's nationally-networked, Winnipeg-based show.

Tonight, on Public Eye Radio, Bernard Schulmann will be guest hosting while your humble organ takes some time off for birthday celebrations. Mr. Schulmann will be chatting with Langley Liberal backbencher Mary Polak and former Green candidate Ariel Lade to get their take on the recent provincial budget. Crease, Harman and Company's Bruce Hallsor will be discussing property taxes. And municipal amalgation will be on the table when Stevenson, Luchies and Legh's Jim Legh comes into the studio. Also on the show: the regular rabblerousers from our political panel. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 6:00 and 9:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

Tonight, on Public Eye Radio, Michel Juneau-Katsuya, the president of an Ottawa-based security consulting firm, joins us to talk about his recommendation that Canada's border guards be armed. Mining Association of British Columbia president and chief executive officer Michael McPhie will be discussing the industry's perspective on controversial plans to expand coal mining in southeastern British Columbia. And Penny Parry, a former member of the provincial government's now defunct children's commission, will be phoning in to give her take on the review of the review into the death of toddler Sherry Charlie. Also on the show: Campaign to De-Elect David Emerson chair Kevin Chalmers will be speaking out about the arrest of some of his supporters. Victoria school trustee Peg Orcherton is coming into the studio to discuss changes to the way the public school system is funded. And provincial New Democrat health critic David Cubberley will be spouting off about Premier Gordon Campbell's European mystery health tour. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 6:00 and 9:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

Earlier, we reported recently retired deputy minister Lee Doney would be collecting his pension while working on a 10-month, $200,000 contract for the premier's office. According to public accounts, government also transferred $111,469 to his company RLD Strategies Ltd. in fiscal 2004/05. And it looks like the firm is intending on doing even more business with the government. Back in November, aboriginal relations and reconciliation posted a notice on BC Bid that it was looking to establish a list of qualified contractors who can provide the ministry with third party advisory services.

Earlier last week, The Vancouver Sun's Miro Cernetig reported Premier Gordon Campbell is using the term subsidiarity to describe his approach to governing the province. According to Mr. Cernetig, "The term evolved from the Catholic church more than a century ago...Pope Pius XI spelled out the subsidiarity doctrine in his encyclical Quadragessima Anno: 'It is wrong for a superior body to hold to itself the right to make decisions for which an inferior is already well qualified enough to make for itself.'" But the premier might be interested in knowing this doctrine of devolution hasn't just been endorsed by "small-c conservatives and libertarians." In a paper published back in 2004, the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternative's Judy Kennedy's noted subsidiary "the localizing of activities - may be the key to divesting ourselves of both corporate control and U.S. imperialism" - this according to a paper published back in 2004. Of course, our astute readers will know the Liberals have always been big fans of the centre, with Health Minister George Abbott recently describing its work as being "hopelessly and reflexively sycophantic in relation to the New Democratic Party."

As our astute readers know, reporters aren't the only ones who get to attend the provincial government's budget lockups. Stakeholders, who include everyone from the British Columbia Federation of Labour to the British Columbia Chamber of Commerce, are also given a sneak peak at the province's books before the finance minister presents them to the legislature. But this year press gallery members weren't the only ones pay special attention to those special interests, asking them for their opinion on the budget. Speaking with Public Eye, finance communications director Robert Pauliszyn confirmed staffers from the premier's office interviewed stakeholders and video taped their responses for possible posting on the government's Website. When asked whether that video would be used in future television commercials, Mr. Pauliszyn said, "Not to my knowledge."

Earlier, Public Eye reported ex-provincial cabinet minister Christy Clark would be hosting a reception for supposed federal Liberal leadership candidate Scott Brison. But what was said and who was at that scratch-and-sniff event - which Ms. Clark says is "neither intended nor should be interpreted as an endorsement" of the former Tory. Well, according to our operatives, most interesting was the appearance of John Bethel. Mr. Bethel ran unsuccessfully as a Liberal candidate in Edmonton East during the 2004 election (despite or perhaps because of being appointed to that nomination by Paul Martin). But he is best known for having been the president of Prime Minister Martin's leadership campaign in that province. Any guesses who Mr. Bethel, a friend of Mr. Brison's national co-ordinator Leslie Swartman, might be organizing for now?

Earlier today, one of our astute readers reported there would a reception tonight for federal Liberal turncoat David Emerson. Our operatives confirm that reception, which is being organized by strategic communicator Patrick Kinsella, is taking place between 5:00 to 7:00 and being billed as a meet-and-greet event. But there seems to be question marks over who exactly the new international trade minister is meeting - a list which might not extend much past the usual Terminal City suspects. After all, in an interview with Public Eye, Vancouver-Kingsway federal Conservative constituency association president Marilyn Brown said she wasn't aware of the reception, adding "I asked David if he wanted to have an event. And we actually asked if he wanted to have a big rally. And he said, 'No. Just let me get on with my work.'"

Earlier, we reported Gordon Campbell's brother-in-law Les Vertesi, an advocate of parallel private healthcare, would be joining the premier's European mystery health tour. But it turns out this isn't the first time the premier has rubbed shoulders with those who might favour adding a dash of free enterprise flavour to the bland borscht that is Canadian medicare. Back in 2003, The Vancouver Sun's Jeff Lee reported British Columbia's first minister invited Richard Scott, the former chief executive officer of what was once America's largest and most aggressive for-profit hospital operator, "to come to B.C. to give him advice on overhauling the health care system, saying he was 'an invaluable resource for government leaders, like myself, who see the need to reform and rebuild health care.'"

Who's that we spy working for Earnscliffe Strategy Group Inc.? Why it's none other than University of Victoria Young Liberal mafia alumnus Adam Johnson, who was most recently former federal Liberal Industry Minister David Emerson's parliamentary affairs director. According to our operatives, Mr. Johnson joins Earnscliffe as a senior associate, splitting his time between Vancouver and Victoria (which means Byng Giraud will finally have some company). Under the Conflict of Interest and Post-Employment Code for Public Office Holders, Mr. Johnson cannot "make representations for or on behalf of any other person or entity to any department with which they had direct and significant official dealings during the period of one year immediately prior to the termination of their service in public office." As a result, his lobbying work will be restricted to provincial and municipal files. Mr. Johnson previously worked with Earnscliffe principal Bruce Young when the two were at Hill and Knowlton Inc.

It looks like there's been an outbreak of restructuring fever at the attorney general's court services branch. Among those infected: assistant deputy minister Helen Pedneault who has decided the branch no longer needs its four regional directors, who were responsible managing law court and sheriff services in the following areas: Interior, Northern, Vancouver Island and Vancouver Westminster. Those services will now report directly to branch headquarters as part of a fashionable move to eliminate silos within the ministry. We're told the staff filling those posts - Michael Christian, Alvin Glover, Bill Grandage and Joanne Pitzel - have been re-assigned.

Earlier, we told you Health Minister George Abbott pooh-poohed claims the premier's European mystery health tour travelling companion Les Vertesi was an advocate for parallel private healthcare. This, despite admitting he was "not an expert" on the emergency room specialist's work. In that same scrum, Minister Abbot also said he hadn't read Dr. Vertesi's self-published book Broken Promises. And that's a pity. Because if he had, Minister Abbot would know Dr. Vertesi supports introducing market forces in the public healthcare system. But "until such time as a mature internal market exists, a healthy private industry that parallels the public one and can contract with it to provide services would force both sides to work in the same competitive environment."

Today, provincial Opposition frontbencher David Cubberley slammed Les Vertesi's presence on Gordon Campbell's European mystery health tour, saying "If the premier wants to send a message that he's going to lead a real dialogue on healthcare and that he can be trusted to do this, he does not want to take someone along with him who is an advocate of user fees and two-tier medicine." But, in a scrum, Health Minister George Abbott pooh-poohed that attack saying, "I just don't believe the Opposition health critic is providing a fair and balanced analysis" of the doctor's views - despite having admitted minutes earlier that he was "not an expert on Dr. Vertesi and his work." The following is a complete transcript of that scrum.

Earlier this month, British Columbia Medical Association members made headlines when they elected controversial Cambie Surgical Centre founder Brian Day as their Canadian Medical Association presidential nominee. But those who pay attention to the minutae of such events may be interested to know Fair Voting BC was commissioned to run that historic election, which was conducted via a mail-in preferential ballot. According to our operatives, the electoral reform group's president Bruce Hallsor also served as the association's chief electoral officer. The cost for all that work: expenses plus a $2,000 donation to Fair Voting - which will go toward financing its future electoral reform campaigns. Fair Voting intends to continue contracting out its services as part of its fundraising activities.

Earlier, your humble organ reported Gordon Campbell's brother-in-law Les Vertesi will be joining the premier when he tours Europe next week. But what else do we know about Dr. Vertesi, aside from his advocacy for a parallel private healthcare system? Well, according to past interim Opposition leader Joy MacPhail, he was no friend of the provincial New Democrats when they were office. While questioning the government's decision to appoint Dr. Vertesi to the Health Council of Canada, Ms. MacPhail said, "I am very familiar with Dr. Vertesi's criticisms of my time when I was in government - very familiar. It turns out that the minute this government got elected and nothing changed, Dr. Vertesi decided to fall silent, and now he's getting his payoff" - a claim disputed by Dr. Vertesi fan club member and then Health Minister Colin Hansen.

Who's that we see visiting the legislature? Why it's none other than the British Columbia Nurses' Union, who we're told will be meeting this morning with the provincial Liberal caucus. Healthcare, of course, will likely figure prominently in that discussion. But perhaps union president Debra McPherson will also comment on Premier Gordon Campbell's controversial European travelling companion - parallel private healthcare system advocate Les Vertesi? After all, when the provincial government named him to the Health Council of Canada back in December 2003, Ms. McPherson told The Province's Don Harrison Dr. Vertesi's ideas about medicare were "almost wacko." And she added having the premier's brother-in-law on the council "does a great disservice to the people of B.C." - calling for his immediate recall.

Earlier, your humble organ reported child and youth officer Jane Morley's investigation into the "timelines, changes to terms of reference, and other matters relating to the director's case review" of Sherry Charlie's death hit the attorney general's desk last week. But when will British Columbians get to see a copy? Well, according to our operatives, the ministry is expecting to release that document sometime before the end of the week.

Earlier, we reported Gordon Campbell's brother-in-law Les Vertesi will be joining the premier when he tours Europe next week to "explore new approaches to improve" British Columbia's public healthcare system. But Dr. Vertesi will likely make a poor travelling companion for the Liberal leader - in part, because of a controversial book he self-published in 2003 entitled Broken Promises. In that book, the former Royal Columbian Hospital medical director and emergency department head repeatedly compares our healthcare system to communism or, more specifically, the Berlin Wall. An example: "With no ability to adjust money to workload, reward productivity, or provide financial feedback to managers, we have brought the most destructive aspects of Lenin's experiment home to bed with us."

Gordon Campbell's brother-in-law Les Vertesi, a noted physician and advocate of parallel private healthcare, will be joining the premier when he tours Europe to "explore new approaches to improve" how medical services are delivered in British Columbia. The premier's office issued an information bulletin at 4:00 today notifying reporters Dr. Vertesi, British Columbia's representative to the Health Council of Canada, would be joining the first minister on that tour. Others accompanying him include Health Minister George Abbott, chief of staff Martyn Brown, deputy chief of staff and executive assistant Lara Dauphinee and health strategic policy and intergovernmental relations assistant deputy minister Craig Knight. It goes without saying most wags would have been too busy covering the budget to pay attention to that bulletin. And it's unlikely they'll get a chance to ask Premier Campbell about his controversial travelling companion, given that the Liberal leader willl be in Vancouver tomorrow morning before he jets off across the pond in the afternoon. Dr. Vertesi will reportedly be paying his own way to the Old World. The following is a complete copy of that bulletin.

In today's budget, the Campbell administration announced the provincial surtax on passenger vehicles priced over $49,000 would now only apply to cars and trucks valued at more than $55,000. According to the government, that will help "British Columbians who require diesel pickups and similar vehicles" - at a cost of $10 million in annual revenue. But, in what surely must have been an unintended consequence, luxury car buyers and sellers will also be opening champagne bottles tonight to celebrate the increased threshhold. According to CanadianDriver, 2006 vehicles in the $49,000 to $55,000 range include the Audi A4, the BMW Z4 Roadster, the Jaguar X-Type and the Lincoln LS. The following is a complete list.

Earlier, we reported Susan Yurkovich, a former member of the provincial Liberal's super-secret central campaign committee, would be doing "contract work on a part time basis" for BC Hydro Corp. - this, according to media relations manager Elisha Moreno. But it turns out she has a rather impressive title to go along with that lowly contract work: vice-president of public affairs and communications. That post has been vacant since Shawn Thomas departed the Crown corporation in December 2004 admist rumours of ruffled-feathers.

Earlier, we reported the Harper administration could soon handover ownership of the Dominion Coal Block lands to the provincial government - opening up previously untouched coal deposits for development. But the Flathead Coalition, a transboundary environmental group, has sent federal Natural Resources Minister Gary Lunn a letter alerting him to the "sensitive local and international dimensions" of that development work - which they believe could pollute the waters in and around Glacier National Park, as well as ruin valuable wilderness habitats. The letter goes onto urge Minister Lunn to "defer a decision on the transfer of the Dominion Coal Block lands to British Columbia pending completion of a comprehensive baseline assessment" of the region's environmental values. And it invites him to "join (the coalition) on the ground in the Transboundary Flathead" for a guided tour this summer. But, in the meantime, we note the Campbell administration has already given the Tory frontbencher a guided tour of the provincial legislature, which reportedly included scenic visits last Thursday with British Columbia's resource ministers.

The recent coroner's inquest into the death of Sherry Charlie saw a parade of witnesses testify about the toddler's slaying at the hands of her great uncle. But absent from that parade was provincial New Democrat MLA Nicholas Simons. Before he was elected, Mr. Simons, as our astute readers will remember, was commissioned by the government to write the director's review into Sherry's death. And, according to our operatives, he had been subpoenaed to testify at the inquest - perhaps providing information that may have been left out of that report. But, on Monday, coroner's counsel John Orr notified Mr. Simons he had been struck from the witness list because a number of additional names had been added to the inquest's already packed schedule. To date, the MLA has been unable to speak about his past review work due to a confidentiality agreement with the government.

It looks like supposed federal Liberal leadership aspirant Scott Brison is about to get an early start on campaigning in British Columbia. According to a leaked email, former provincial Liberal cabinet and mayoral nomination candidate Christy Clark will be hosting an evening reception for Mr. Brison this Wednesday at her Vancouver home. But for those of you might think that this means Ms. Clark and her equally-famed husband Mark Marissen are allying themselves with the ex-cabinet minister, think again. The event invite includes this fascinating disclaimer: "This is neither intended nor should be interpreted as an endorsement of any particular candidate for the upcoming leadership race in the Liberal Party of Canada but rather a chance to meet and help form the debate to ensure BC issues are front and centre." In fact, according to our operatives, Ms. Clark and Mr. Marissen have made it known they're happy to host receptions for anyone interested in running for leader. The following is an edited copy of that invite.

Earlier, we reported on Wasabi Energy Ltd. and Western Canadian Coal Corp.'s plans to mine the Lillyburt coal property. But that's not the only emerging environmental concern in the Flathead River Valley. The federally-owned, 50,000 acre Dominion Coal Block lands include both coal deposits and 15,000 acres of valley floor. Those deposits, to-date, remain untouched. But, last year, the British Columbia Liberals announced plans to "work with (Ottawa) to open up" the block to mining exploration - a longstanding ambition for British Columbia governments past. Those ambitions have been the cause of much handwringing in Montana governor Brian Schweitzer's office, as well as amongst trans-boundary treehuggers. The reason: concerns exploration and future development in the block could pollute the watershed and nearby Glacier National Park, as well as ruining valuable wilderness habitats. But, in the late winter/early spring of 2005, Ottawa threw a monkeywrench into the Campbell administration's plans.

It looks like British Columbia may have given Montana Senator Max Baucus an excuse to once again visit our beautiful province. As Public Eye's astute readers may remember, Senator Baucus went on a border-crossing field trip last year to complain about the proposed opening of a coal mine near one of the Flathead River's tributaries. At issue: concerns Cline Mining Corp.'s operation in southeastern British Columbia could pollute the waters in and around America's nearby Glacier National Park. Those concerns were eased somewhat back in December, when the company agreed to submit its Foisey Creek plans to an environmental assessment, rather than opening a smaller mine that would have slipped through the review process and then expanded at a later date. But now, according to National Parks Conservation Association Glacier program manager Steve Thompson, Australia's Wasabi Energy Ltd. and Western Canadian Coal Corp. are moving ahead with plans to develop a mine that's further downstream.

Last week, in an interview with the Ottawa Citizen's James Gordon, Canada's top cop Stockwell Day suggested he would be looking into creating an America-style armed border patrol. That proposal is similar to recommendations included in a report commissioned back in 2005 by the Customs Excise Union Douanes Accise, the labour group representing those guards. And, in what surely is simply a stunning coincidence, that report was authored by The Northgate Group Corp. - the recent home of Scott Newark who is now working as a senior advisor to...er...Minister Day.

Tonight, on Public Eye Radio, The Times Colonist's Lindsay Kines joins us to discuss the recent coroner's inquest into the death of toddler Sherry Charlie. Provincial New Democrat children and family development critic Adrian Dix will be on the program to give his view of the case. And the Flathead Coalition's David Thomas and Steve Thompson are phoning in to talk about the environmental impact of increased coal mining in southeastern British Columbia. Also on the show: Green Party leader Adriane Carr, as well as our rabble-rousing political political panel - Bob Russell, Bernard Schulmann, Allan Warnke and Brad Zubyk. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 6:00 and 9:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

Tonight, on Public Eye Radio, provincial New Democrat MLA Bruce Ralston joins us to discuss threats to British Columbia's agricultural land reserve. Denise Savoie will be coming on the show to talk about the work she'll be doing as Victoria's MP. And we'll be chatting with Kevin Chalmers, chair of the Campaign to De-Elect David Emerson. Also on the program: our panel of pop culture commentators - Brian Hendricks, David Ryland, Bill Stewart and Dorothy Woodend. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 6:00 and 9:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

The Coalition of Progressive Electors has always claimed to stand behind the people as opposed to the powerful, voicing the concerns of the weak as opposed to tthose of the strong. But it seems coalition councillor David Cadman believes it's even more important to lobby on behalf of rule lawyers - a clearly under-represented constituency. An example: earlier this week, Vision Vancouver councillor Heather Deal tabled a motion which would have seen her colleagues "support the City of Vancouver's Homelessness Action Plan, and call on the provincial government to restore a full subsidized housing program as the lead element in the fight against homelessness." This, in the wake of news reports suggesting "the provincial government is considering rent subsidies to renters instead of revitalizing the housing program."

Earlier, we reported Minister Rich Coleman was refusing interview requests about his new housing strategy, which apparently will focus on handing out rental supplements rather than funding social housing. So when we caught up with the minister at the Rockpile yesterday, we pressed him for details on those plans. His response: "Well Sean, like I said, you'll wait with everyone else." But didn't he already elaborate on that plan at the Canadian Home Builders' Association of British Columbia's annual crystal ball session? "Oh no, I just talked about pieces of it and philosophical stuff - which I do. But the actual strategy is going to be pretty comprehensive and I think pretty groundbreaking."

Earlier, Lang and Mitchener LLP announced it had retained the services of federal Tory campaign co-chair John Reynolds as a strategic advisor. And who will he be advising, you may wonder? Well, the news release notes the firm is "building strength in key areas of specialization" like "natural resources, gaming, U.S. securities and China practices." But, according to the federal government records, Lang and Mitchener is also presently lobbying Ottawa on behalf of a number of interests, including: the Dairy Farmers of Canada; Ketcham Investments Inc., a Seattle investment firm that co-owns West Fraser Mills Ltd. with Tysa Investments Inc.; and the Upper Lakes Group Inc., a private Toronto company that operates one of the largest fleets on the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway. In the past, Lang and Mitchener has also represented the Association of Canadian Advertisers, the Canadian Association of Importers and Exporters Inc., the Maritime Lumber Bureau, Pratt and Whitney Canada Corp. and Standard Aero Ltd.

The new senior advisor to Canada's top cop Stockwell Day, thinks "Anything effective in law enforcement will inevitably be forbidden under the charter" of Rights and Freedoms. This, according to an article published in the Alberta Report back in January 1998. Scott Newark - who was, at the time, executive director of the Canadian Police Association - was also quoted by Joe Woodward as stating "As we always say, the charter helps only murderers, pedophiles and judges." The former Crown prosecutor, who was most recently a senior associate with The Northgate Group Corp., also said "What we have now in Canada is a supposedly enlightened despotism - rule by people who think they know so much better than everybody else" - referring to the country's judges.

Earlier, we reported federal Conservative campaign co-chair John Reynolds had employment offers from a number of law firms, including a rumoured one from Clark Wilson LLP. And today, Lang Michener LLP's western division chairman Stephen Wortley announced his company had the winning bidding. Said Mr. Wortley in a news release which was first covered by Dan McKenzie, "We are aggressively building strength in key areas of specialization, which include our natural resources, gaming, U.S. securities and China practices. John's wealth of experience and connections further adds to our ability to serve our clients." John, who is not a lawyer, joins the firm as a strategic advisor.

Earlier, we reported embattled children and family development assistant deputy minister Jeremy Berland had taken on a two-year secondment with the University of Victoria. But guess what? In a scrum today, the minister responsible Stan Hagen admitted that secondment will be financed by the government. "It wasn't my decision. I wasn't asked to make that decision. But that decision was part of the negotiations," said Minister Hagen.

Earlier, your humble organ reported rumours embattled children and family development assistant deputy minister Jeremy Berland would soon be replaced by the department Vancouver Coastal regional executive director Donna Knox. But it turns we were only half-right. Today, communications director Kelly Gleeson announced Mr. Berland, who also holds the title of child protection director, has accepted a two-year secondment to the University of Victoria where he will be leading an initiative related to the work of provincial and territorical directors of childcare. His successor: acting regional operations director Mark Sieben. Coincidently, this announcement comes on the same day child and youth officer Jane Morley's investigation into the "timelines, changes to terms of reference, and other matters relating to the director's case review" of Sherry Charlie's death is scheduled to hit Attorney General Wally Oppal's desk.

It looks like the campaign to recall federal Liberal turncoat David Emerson is about to get organized. In an interview with Public Eye, White Tiger Consulting president and chief executive officer Kevin Chalmers, who was a senior volunteer for Minister Emerson in the last two elections, said "It's officially going to be called the Campaign to De-Elect David Emerson - which probably after a few coffees sounded wittier in my mind than it might be. But that's what we're going with. But it's not being done by the (Vancouver-Kingsway Liberal) riding association. The riding association is going to be involved in supporting it. But I'm chairing it and driving it at this stage. And we're welcoming participation from all political stripes."

Your humble organ has reported at length on provincial Housing Minister Rich Coleman's apparent plan to shift focus from funding social housing to handing out rent supplements. So it was not surprising that, in yesterday's Speech from the Throne, the Campbell administration promised it would be introducing "a ground-breaking new housing strategy aimed at helping those most in need, more quickly and effectively. The new housing program will give individuals greater choice and new felxibility. It will transform housing options to help people positively transform their lives." In a scrum following the delivering of that speech, Premier Gordon Campbell refused to elaborate on that plan, saying "You'll hear about all the housing strategy once it's released by Minister Coleman." When it was pointed out the minister had already discussed elements of that strategy with industry interests (at the Canadian Home Builders' Association of British Columbia's annual crystal ball session), the premier replied "There's lots of discussions that are taking place as we build that. And he'll let you know what he's going to announce when he announces it." Of course, those discussions have yet to take place with social housing advocates.

Looks like there has been a major upset in the provincial New Democrat hierarchy. According to our operatives, during yesterday's long-awaited caucus officer elections, Yale-Lillooet MLA Harry Lali succeeded in beating out Maurine Karagianis and Gregor Robertson for the post of deputy caucus chair. That victory could be seen as a signal that a majority of New Democrats legislators are dissatisfied with the status quo and its standard bearers. Meanwhile, we're told Raj Chouhan's candidacy to be deputy whip was thwarted by Coquitlam-Maillardville MLA and certified no-bullshit artist Diane Thorne. The incumbents who previously held those offices - Jagrup Brar and John Horgan - didn't run for re-election.

Are you receiving an income or disability assistance cheque from the provincial government? If so, you're in for a big surprise. It turns out the Campbell administration will soon require those payments to be deposited directly into your bank account. And just to make sure you go along with the plan, the Liberals are offering big incentives to those who sign-up - such as tube socks. According to a leaked email, "when clients sign-up for Direct Deposit between February 22 and March 29, 2006, they will be able to pick two from a choice of three benefits, which include: 5 pairs of Cotton Socks (or) 2 T-Shirts (or) 1 Portable Mug." The email, which was distributed by employment and income assistant deputy minister Cairine MacDonald on Monday, goes onto note "The selected items will be placed in a canvas bag. This offer is available ONLY while supplies last." The following is a complete copy of that email.

Looks like there's been some shifting of rocks at the pile: yesterday provincial Liberal staffers were flabbergasted to discover beloved caucus managing director Sarah Bonner had been downsized. According to our operatives, a reduction in the government's caucus size following the recent election meant that her post - which was responsible for coordinating the Campbell administration's herd of legislative assistants - was no longer needed. Ms. Bonner (who is a longtime associate of the premier's chief of staff Martyn Brown) is said to be departing on good-terms with the senior management.

Earlier, we reported on the present status of Jane Morley's investigation into "timelines, changes to terms of reference, and other matters relating to the director's case review" of Sherry Charlie's death. Said investigation is included in the child and youth officer's non-alphabetical list of current projects and activities. But, interestingly, that work is listed at the very bottom of the three-page document. Surley this is not an indication of how much the government wants this issue to go away?

Last year, our astute readers will remember the province's child and youth officer was tasked with investigating "timelines, changes to terms of reference, and other matters relating to the director's case review" of Sherry Charlie's death. That investigation was supposed to have been completed before January. But an extension granted by Attorney General Wally Oppal pushed that deadline to the end of the month - providing agencies and individuals named in Jane Morley's report an opportunity to give further comment. And now, thanks to another delay, said report won't be on Attorney General Oppal's desk until Wednesday. But that doesn't mean the press will be paging through it anytime soon. Prior to the report's public release, the ministry will have to review the report for legal considerations - such as compliance with the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act and whether anyone named has been defamed.

"Recognize that the party is much worse off than you think." That's Public Eye Radio commentator Bob Russell's first recommendation for the federal Liberals, in an email that's being distributed through party circles. In the email, Mr. Russell, who worked on Paul Martin's first leadership campaign and was chief of staff to the provincial Liberals in Alberta, notes Canadians have lost confidence in the Liberals because "for four elections in a row (the party has) tried to win by demonizing the alternative rather than giving Canadians something to vote for." And, to make matters worse, the Grits have "not had an infusion of new blood in almost 40 years." So, to restore that confidence the Liberals must do more than change leaders - they must find a vision that will infect Canadians with a "sense of national purpose to be achieved through their federal government." The following is a complete copy of that email, which elaborates on those recommendations.

Today, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly Bill Barisoff revealed provincial Liberal supporter Louise Burgart resigned her post as an electoral boundary commissioner earlier this month. Said Mr. Barisoff, "Louise was an excellent candidate. When her name came forward, I did consult with the premier. And I did consult with the leader of the Opposition. And both agreed she would have done a fine job on the electoral boundaries commission. Since then, there has been some controversy regarding her appointment. And, on February 2, Louise felt that in fairness to her and the process itself she decided she should submit her resignation."

Provincial Liberal Minister Rich Coleman may be planning on shifting focus from funding social housing to handing out rent supplements. But an independent report commissioned by B.C. Housing Corp. while the New Democrats were in power concluded those supplements are more expensive than the housing projects they'd replace. According to The Vancouver Sun's Francis Bula, the 1998 study - which was written by David Black of Ekos Research Inc. - "compared the actual costs of 32 pairs of housing units - a social-housing apartment or house and a private one where the tenant was getting a government rent supplement - for the last 20 years. In each case, the study's statistics revealed that social housing starts out being more expensive for government, because it is paying large subsidies to make rent affordable for tenants in expensive new buildings. But typically, after about five years - not the 22-36 years that has been assumed in other studies - market rents start to go higher than the monthly cost of social housing, so people getting rent supplements need larger and larger supplements each year to make the housing affordable."

Provincial New Democrat leader Carole James says she has expressed "concern" to Speaker of the Legislative Assembly Bill Barisoff about his decision to appoint Liberal supporter Louise Burgart to the supposedly non-partisan electoral boundary commission. In a scrum today, Ms. James said she knew Ms. Burgart's "work as a superintendent. She did a very good as a superintendent." But "there's problems with the partisan nature of her appointment. I think it's going to raise concerns about the entire boundaries commission and whether it's going to be truly accountable and non-partisan." And the New Democrats, she says, will "be making more statements (about Ms. Burgart's partisanship) as the commission meets."

Earlier, we reported provincial Liberal minister Rich Coleman hadn't consulted social housing advocates about possible changes to the way the province shelters its most vulnerable citizens. But this isn't the first time the member from Fort Langley-Aldergrove has given those advocates the nervous Nellies. Back in 2000, The Vancouver Sun reported organizations such as the B.C. Non-Profit Housing Association were preparing election material defending the construction of social housing. The reason: according to Francis Bula, "The preparations are prompted by a vague but strong sense that the Liberals intend to stake out a new position on housing that would put less emphasis on funding social housing and more on providing rent subsidies to enable lower-income tenants to rent from private landlords."

Tonight, on Public Eye Radio, we'll be discussing the controversial possibility of mining development on the Dominion Coal Block lands with Wildsight energy and mining program manager Casey Brennan and Western Canada Wilderness Committee Victoria executive director Ken Wu. University of Victoria women's studies professor Annalee Leep joins us to talk about raising the age of consent. And Young Liberals Letlotlo Coco Lefoka and Kelly Murdoch will be venting their spleen about federal Liberal turncoat David Emerson. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing political panel - John Heaney, Will McMartin, Bob Russell and Brad Zubyk - who will give their thoughts about the federal and provincial week that was. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 6:00 and 9:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

It looks like Conservative MP James Moore has broken his first election promise. On November 24, the could-have-been cabinet minister wrote "This will be my last blog on this website for a while. Heck, here goes campaign pitch #1: If I am re-elected, this blog will be resurrected to its full glory in a new term as the Member of Parliament for Port Moody-Westwood-Port Coquitlam." But last week, Mr. Moore told his readers "I'm afraid, like my friend Monte (Solberg), this will be the final posting on my blog. I have always been of the view that if you cannot do something with all your intensity and commitment, don't do it. As a result, this blog is going to be a casualty of my new responsibilities and my prioritizing of my spare time."

Earlier, we reported Councillor Peter Ladner was standing behind his accusation that Senator Larry Campbell mismanaged preparations for an international peace conference when he was mayor. Specifically, Mr. Ladner maintains, among other allegations, that "no official invitation (for the conference was) sent out." And, in a comment posted on Public Eye, he wrote that funding for the event was cancelled after organizer Alfred Marder rejected "a scaled-down project that would fit the $50,000 budget (approved by the city)." One wonders, then, what to make of a letter sent by Mr. Marder to councillors in which he writes "I must inform you that based upon the invitation of the City of Vancouver, two invitations have already been sent" to those attending the conference. And he goes onto state that "The City of Vancouver allocation of $50,000 last March 31, 2005 is much appreciated and fully sufficient to cover our proposed program and budget, which is attached for your information." The following is a complete copy of that letter, which was leaked to Public Eye.

The back and forth between Councillor Peter Ladner and Senator Larry Campbell continues! Earlier, we noted Councillor Ladner had accused the former mayor of mismanaged preparations for an international peace conference - a claim disputed by Senator Campbell in an email leaked to your humble organ. But, in a comment posted on Public Eye last night, Councillor Ladner stood by his accusations, again noting that there was "no official invitation (for the conference) sent out during the ensuing nine months, no budget prepared, no sponsor sold, no work at all done on the project." And he added Mayor Sam Sullivan's staff telephoned International Association of Peace Messenger Cities president Alfred Marder after it became apparent the even cost would balloon to $200,000. And, during that call, staff "offered him a scaled-down project that would fit the $50,000 budget (approved by the city). He refused." That funding has since been cancelled by Non-Partisan Association councillors. The following is a complete copy of Councillor Ladner's posting.

In this country, there's a supposed to be a strict division of responsibilities between the provincial and federal governments. But it seems that scandal knows no bounds. To wit, provincial New Democrat MLAs David Chudnovsky, Adrian Dix and Gregor Roberston are hosting a public smackdown "for members of the community to share their views" on federal Liberal posterboy David Emerson's decision to defect to the Tories. The following is a copy of the email announcing that event, which was distributed to party members.

Who's that we spy working at BC Hydro Corp.? Why it's none other than Susan Yurkovich, a former member of the provincial Liberal's super-secret central campaign committee. In an email, sent to Public Eye, media relations manager Elisha Moreno confirmed "Susan is doing contract work on a part time basis" for the Crown corporation. "She has been engaged since the second week of January to work on communications" having been hired by chief executive officer Bob Elton."

To date, the provincial New Democrat caucus has yet to comment on the appointment of Liberal supporter Louise Burgart to the supposedly non-partisan electoral boundary commission. But, according to our operatives, there's some who think the party should follow the example set by Moe Sihota back in 1987, when the Socreds put Judge Thomas Fisher - then Premier Bill Vander Zalm's former personal lawyer - in charge of redrawing the province's political map. And what was that example you may wonder? Well, those looking for a sustained blast of fire and brimstone are likely to be somewhat disappointed. In the legislature, the pit bull twice questioned Premier Vander Zalm about his relationship with Mr. Fisher (on June 17 and 18). And Mr. Sihota also raised the issue with the judge during a electoral boundary commission hearing - albiet in a somewhat hesitant manner. The following is a complete transcript of the exchange between Messrs. Sihota and Fisher at that meeting, as preserved by British Columbia Archives.

Much ado has been made concerning top bureaucrat Alison MacPhail's depature from children and family development. Unfortunately, unlike the premier's deputy minister, Jessica McDonald, Ms. MacPhail wasn't giving out interviews of explanation. But, in an email sent earlier this morning, she did give these words to her staffers: "It is with mixed emotions that I must tell you that I have accepted a new assignment with government." The following is a complete copy of that email.

If Public Eye's anonymous posters are right, Alison MacPhail isn't the only senior bureaucrat who will be leaving children and family development. Rumours are circulating that embattled assistant deputy minister Jeremy Berland will be replaced by the ministry's Vancouver Coastal regional executive director Donna Knox, who is presently on a secondment in Victoria. Communications director Kelly Gleeson said he wouldn't comment on personnel matters. And those familiar with the ministry add that they would find it somewhat surprising if Ms. Knox left Vancouver. Although, that being said, she would be a good candidate for the position.

Senator Larry Campbell is fighting back against allegations he mismanaged preparations for an international peace conference when he was mayor, Public Eye has learned. At issue: earlier this week, Non-Partisan Association Councillor Peter Ladner sent an email to supporters accusing Senator Campbell of having "lost the file" for The Mayors for Peace and International Association of Peace Messenger Cities general assembly "last spring and forgotten about it." And, then according to Councillor Ladner, he and his colleagues were "asked to accept a last-minute 10-line 'budget' of $43,500 (to fund the June conference) that contradicted our own staff's three-page detailed breakdown of costs showing a potential maximum cost of $200,000, not including speaker fees and security."

Last night, the Canadian Broadcasting Corp.'s Justine Hunter exclusively reported Alison MacPhail had been exited from her post as deputy minister responsible for children and family development. But, according to our operatives, Ms. MacPhail has since accepted another job in government. A statement regarding the departure will be issued this morning, with the premier's deputy minister Jessica McDonald doing interviews on the matter throughout the day.

Provincial Liberal Minister Rich Coleman may be refusing to talk about his social housing plans with anyone other than his rental and construction industry buddies. But Vision Vancouver Councillor Heather Deal is making her voice heard loud and clear, introducing a motion opposing the provincial government's apparent plan to shift focus from funding social housing to providing rent supplements. In an interview with Public Eye, Councillor Deal explained, "We're very, very concerned about all this talk of withdrawing support for social housing and subsidizied housing and instead start using subsidized rents."

This morning brings another Website promoting the recall of turncoat David Emerson - although this one appears to have been shined with more spot and polish. Of course, we would expect nothing less given that the domain is registered to Anna Strom of Convergence Strategies and Communications Inc., whose principal is esteemed rabblerouser Michael Magee.

Earlier, we reported on provincial Housing Minister Rich Coleman's apparent plan to focus on handing out rental supplements rather than building more social housing. To clarify those plans, Public Eye placed a request for an interview with the minister more than two weeks ago. And this is the response: "He will not be talking to media until the strategy is released." So sayeth forests and range public affairs officer Tiffany Akins, who notes the minister has turned down similar requests from two other outlets. Of course, your humble organ would be remiss if we didn't observe that Minister Coleman seems to have had no trouble discussing that strategy at the Canadian Home Builders' Association's annual crystal ball session. And the Rental Owners and Managers Association of British Columbia appear to have discussed the issue at some length with him - unlike social housing advocates. So here's a question for our astute readers: is Minister Coleman doing a good job or a bad job of assuaging concerns that he's simply in the business of subsidizing landlords?

Much concern is brewing among the provincial New Democrats over the use of an executive search firm to hire Auditor General Wayne Strelioff's successor. At issue: concerns some industry members are too close to the Campbell administration, having donated $31,415 to the Liberals and received $3.3 million in government transfers - far more than when the New Democrats were in office between fiscal 1997/98 and 2000/01. But this won't be the first time a consulting company has been involved in the selection of British Columbia's top financial watchdog. Back in 1977, Stevenson and Kellogg Ltd. carried out "interviews and other investigations" of 22 candidates selected by a special committee of the legislature. And 1987, Ernst and Whinney Ltd. was tasked with conducting "in-depth interviews" with seven candidates selected by a similar body.

Earlier, your humble organ reported between fiscal 2001 and 2004, the Campbell administration transferred $3.3 million to headhunting specialists on a list of pre-qualified executive search firms. A number of them had donated their time to identify potential senior bureaucrats on behalf of the Liberals. And they've also been generous with their money. According to a review of Elections British Columbia filings, those companies have contributed $31,415 to the Liberals (which includes the value of their aforementioned headhunting services). The following is a complete list of those contributions.

David Emerson may have been the Martin administration's political minister in British Columbia. But the understanding of our operatives is that he won't be bearing the same burden for the Harper administration. That weight has been passed to agriculture and agri-food minister Chuck Strahl.

Earlier, we reported New Democrat public accounts committee member Bruce Ralston was questioning the use of an executive search firm to select British Columbia's next auditor general. The reason: back in 2001, four headhunters - The Caldwell Partners International Inc., Korn/Ferry International Inc., Ray & Berndtson/Tanton Mitchell Inc. and Patrick O'Callaghan and Associates - donated their time to identify potential senior bureaucrats on behalf of the incoming Campbell administration. And that administration has been good for the executive search industry. According to a Public Eye review of government financial records, between fiscal 2001/02 and 2004/05, $3.3 million was transferred to headhunting specialists on a current list of pre-qualified executive search firms, with the biggest winner being Caldwell at $759,509. By comparison, when the New Democrats were in power, those same specialists received just $435,384 between fiscal 1997/98 and 2000/01. And now, the industry even has one of its own sitting in Liberal caucus: Iain Black, who was a partner at Caldwell until 1999 and is now a...er...member of the public accounts committee.

It seems Philip Steenkamp is being temporarily transferred from the bombed-out front line that is Jessica McDonald's office. Mr. Steenkamp, the deputy minister of social development strategic policy and former deputy minister of advanced education, has been seconded to the Ontario civil service where he will serve as the top bureaucrat at the ministry of training, colleges and universities.

Prior to Monday's federal cabinet swearing-in-ceremony, there had been much talk among the chattering classes about a possible ministerial appointment for James Moore, the young, up-and-coming Conservative MP for Port Moody-Westwood-Port Coquitlam. But when that appointment didn't come through, no one was probably more shocked and disappointed than Mr. Moore himself. After all, on February 5, the bright-eyed, bushy-tailed politico added this entry to his blog: "A few words seared into my brain that I've been saying for about 2 weeks now: 'Mr. Harper will announce his cabinet on Monday. I have nothing more to say.' Where is Superman when you need him to spin the globe a little faster so Monday arrives sooner?" Mr. Moore hasn't added anymore entries since that posting.

Earlier, we reported provincial and federal construction, rental and real estate development interests have long lobbied for rent supplements. But, apparently, they're not the only ones. In a comment posted on Public Eye, Canadian Real Estate Association external relations director James Brennan writes "support for rent supplements and shelter allowances form a signifcant part of our industry's position on federal housing policy, and have been included in each of our Pre-Budget Submissions to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Finance in 2004 and 2005." The following is a complete copy of his comments.

Your humble organ has reported at length on the appointment of provincial Liberal supporter Louise Burgart to the non-partisan electoral boundary commission. And now, some New Democrats suspect the Campbell administration is attempting manipulate the hiring process for another supposedly non-partisan post - the auditor general. At issue: during the last public accounts committee meeting, Liberal members pushed through a motion authorizing an executive search firm to put together a list of potential successors for Wayne Strelioff, whose terms expires in May.

One-half of the Conservative Party of Canada may have been born in the West. But, according to our operatives, there was some thinking that the Harper administration might close or downsize the federal government's ministers' regional office in Vancouver. But those plans, which would have seen the ministers' regional office in Calgary provide the primary base for cabinet operations in the West, will likely change now that former federal Liberal posterboy David Emerson has joined the Conservatives.

What's this we hear about Steve Vander Wal leaving the provincial legislature? Apparently, the longtime Liberal functionary - who presently serves as Health Minister George Abbott's senior assistant - announced this morning he has accepted a position at government relations giant Hill and Knowlton Inc. Bibliophiles please note that Mr. Vander Wal also worked as a junior aide to Colin Hansen when he was responsible for British Columbia's health file. But he's spent much of his time at the Rockpile toiling for Shirley Bond.

Earlier, one of our astute readers reported federal Conservative godfather John Reynolds (who is not a lawyer) would be "joining Lyall Knott" - a well-known provincial Liberal fundraiser - at Clark Wilson LLP. A senior Tory operative couldn't immediately verify that report. But he did say Mr. Reynolds has received job offers from a number of Vancouver law firms. In a brief interview with Public Eye, Mr. Knott declined to comment on whether he would be working with Mr. Reynolds, saying "Why don't you talk to John?" The company's more notable clients include Concert Properties Ltd., HMY Airlines Inc., HSBC Bank plc, Methanex Corp. and Orca Bay Sports and Entertainment Corp.

Your humble organ has spilled much ink reporting on provincial Housing Minister Rich Coleman's apparent plan to focus on handing out rental supplements rather than building more social housing. But that's not the only change that will be happening on his watch. During estimates, Minister Coleman said his staff were "just finishing" nine years of negotiations that will see the federal Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. handover the management and administration of its social housing programs and properties to British Columbia. And that handover, which has already happened in nine other provinces and territories, could result in a number of substantial business opportuntities for real estate development and construction interests. Selling-off some of those properties is, of course, an option - and one that has been exercised in other jurisdictions. But the government will also become responsible for modernizing and upgrading former federal housing - a project that could be bankrolled via public-private partnerships. Minister Coleman has not yet responded to an interview request placed almost two weeks ago (and renewed last week) seeking clarification and comment on his social housing plans, which he appears to have already discussed with the private sector.

Much ado is being made about former federal Liberal posterboy David Emerson's decision to cross the floor. But who was it that initiated those defection discussions? Well, despite what Stephen Harper may be saying, according to the rumour mill, it was newly-minted Conservative International Trade Minister Emerson who approached the Tories - not the other way around. And one of his principal points of contact was Conservative campaign co-chair John Reynolds. Meanwhile, Liberals are still in shock over Minister Emerson's decision. Said one operative, "Hell, we just confirmed him a day or two ago to attend the federal Liberal council meeting. He told no one."

At this hour, Canadian Press is reporting federal Liberal provincial posterboy David Emerson has defected to take a cabinet post with the Harper administration. In an interview with Public Eye, Grit British Columbia president Jamie Elmhirst reacted to that news this way: "I'm shocked and devastated by the decision that he made. And I know there are literally tens of thousands of party members across the province that are going to be feeling the exact same way this morning. I'm not going say anything that calls his character into question cause I know he's a good, decent and honourable guy. But, as such, I hope he recognizes the impact that this decision is going to have on a whole bunch of people who thought the world of him and supported him in joining the Liberal Party."

Provincial New Democrat MLAs are weighing-in on our report that the Fraser Health Authority has awarded a multi-million dollar contract to a nursing home operator with a past conviction for income tax evasion. In an interview with Public Eye, seniors' health critic Katrine Conroy said "I'm thinking, shouldn't that have raised alarm bells for the Fraser Health Authority as well as the government? I find it very odd that this (information) didn't come forward" during the competitive bid process that awarded the contract. Noting Mr. Bennewith's past contributions to the Liberals, Ms. Conroy added "It's a real concern for us that it seems that this government is choosing to reward their friends instead of thinking what's the best option for seniors." And health critic David Cubberley said the nursing home operator's tax conviction "speaks to character. And if there was someone else who was equally capable of delivering the service on the ground, I think it would be a reason for not picking that entity and preferring another entity."

Tonight, on Public Eye Radio, we'll be chatting with former agricultural land commission civil servant David Sands about his campaign to preserve provincial farmland. Impact on the Community Coalition chair Linda Mix is also joining us to discuss the escalating costs of the 2010 Winter Olympic Games. And former federal Liberal election candidate Sheila Orr will be on the line to give her take on the Grit leadership race. Also on the show: provincial New Democrat seniors' health critic Katrine Conroy and our regular panel of pop culture commentators - David Brock, Chris Eng, Brian Hendricks and Dorothy Woodend. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 6:00 and 9:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

Earlier, we reported the Fraser Health Authority had awarded a multi-million dollar contract to a company whose president was convicted of tax evasion. But this isn't the first time Arnold Bennewith, a Liberal donor, and his companies have made the headlines. Willingdon Park Hospital Ltd. and Herst Management Ltd. - which once operated the Sidney Intermediate Care Home - were among the first to take advantage of provisions in the Health and Social Services Delivery Improvement Act that allow health sector employers to contract out previously unionized positions.

The Fraser Health Authority has awarded a multi-million dollar contract to a private nursing home company whose president was convicted of income tax evasion, Public Eye has exclusively learned. The contract, which funds 70 care beds at a new residence being built in South Surrey by the numbered company, has drawn harsh criticism from healthcare unions. But the authority is defending the contract on the grounds it has a "long-term contractual relationship" with Arnold Bennewith, who had "excellent references from three major financial institutions" and "no licensing issues."

Earlier, we reported provincial Liberal Transportation Minister Kevin Falcon's financial agent received at least $61,500 in donations from the real estate development and construction industries, as well as an additional $18,500 from transportation interests. But the only reason we know that is because of a mistake made in his election filings. Under the Elections Act, candidates only have to record the cheques made out specifically to their campaign. Cheques made out to the party, which is usually the form they come in, aren't recorded in their filings. This has the entirely legal effect of disguising who's getting what money from whom. Which is why the press gallery will never be able to put a dollar value on cabinet minister Rich Coleman's legendary fundraising skills. But, in the case of Minister Falcon, his filing accidentally recorded all the cheques his agent received - including those made out to the party - providing an inadvertent glimpse at his pass-the-hat network. That filing has since been amended.

Earlier, we reported provincial New Democrat constituency assistants would be negotiating a new collective agreement with caucus over the fall. That didn't happen. But, according to our operatives, bargaining is now scheduled to get underway on February 15 and 16. And there's already some discussion that the pay raise those assistants want may not be what caucus is prepared to give them.

Have you heard the name Jane Holland before? Don't worry, because we hadn't either. But, for the past nine years, Ms. Holland has been toiling in comparative obscurity as the provincial government's service quality advocate, responsible for helping "adults with developmental disabilities and their families get good quality services." But now there's some concern among activists that Ms. Holland's post, which presently reports directly to the minister of children and family development, may be transferred to Community Living British Columbia. After all, that's what the authority's architects seemed to be proposing back in 2003 with a suggestion Ms. Holland be replaced with a "semi-independent" safeguards office at Community Living British Columbia that would "provide families with an appeal process if the normal appeal processes fail." But, in an interview with your humble organ, ministry communications director Kelly Gleeson said "there's no plan to eliminate the office." Although he added children and family development will be undertaking an assessment of the post commencing July 1 to determine if there's a way to "retool" or "strengthen" it.

Earlier, we reported provincial Transportation Minister Kevin Falcon's financial agent collected $3,000 in donations from Canadian Road Builders Inc. executives Gilbert Brulotte and Glenn Thamer. But what business do two Edmonton blacktop barons have in British Columbia anyway, one might wonder? Quite a bit it turns out. According to public accounts, the government transferred a whopping $6,092,934 to Lafrentz Road Marking Ltd., a division of Canadian Road Builders, in fiscal 2004/05. In previous fiscal years, those transfers had ranged between $195,094 and $415,534. The following is a complete copy of those transfers.

Kevin Falcon is a popular man among property developers, managers and builders. So popular, in fact, that the provincial Liberal transportation minister's financial agent collected at least $61,500 from the industry immediately prior to and during the 2005 election campaign. And he received a further $18,500 from transportation interests, according to an analysis conducted by Public Eye.