Bait your breath ladies and gentlemen. The search warrant documents you've been waiting for won't be released till Monday morning - likely around 10:00. It seems one of the defense lawyers won't have an opportunity to review those documents until later this evening. And that means some of our readers are in for a couple sleepless nights.
Here's the latest news for all you David Basi fans out there: we've been advised the Crown is now working on a 5:00 release for the search warrant documents - a hour later then expected. Defence council has those documents in hand. And the Crown is waiting for their return.
Earlier, we reported search warrant documents related to the 2003 police raid on the legislature would be available by 3:00 this afternoon, at the earliest. And now your humble organ has been informed the Crown is working toward a 4:00 release. Meanwhile, in related news, we understand said documentation is at least 50 pages in length.
Stomachs are churning and mouths are watering today as the province's political classes anxiously await the release of search warrant documents related to the 2003 police raid on the legislature. The latest news: those documents will be available by 3:00 this afternoon, at the earliest. Stay tuned to Public Eye for more information as it becomes available.
Notwithstanding some recent minor successes, the quality of question period has left much to be desired. And that has some wags wondering just how the provincial New Democrats will make it through the present legislative session, which lasts until May 18. But, according to our operatives, the Opposition might want to use that time as best they can because the Dippers could be waiting until 2007 before they get another shot at embarassing the Campbell administration/themselves in the house. Our operatives confirm government is giving thought to shortening or even perhaps even axing the upcoming fall legislative session. Fall session have been traditionally used to pass housekeeping legislation. Government is expected to have a better idea of whether it will exercise that option (which has been considered in the past) in about five weeks time.
New Democrat House Leader Mike Farnworth is calling on the provincial government to force Coquitlam First to disclose who funded its campaign effort. The Liberal-linked group ran a slate of seven candidates in the recent civic election, spending $100,000 to promote them. But, because it didn't register as an electoral organization, it isn't required to report who donated to its coffers. In an interview with Public Eye, Mr. Farnworth said, "They talked liked a political party, they campaigned like a political party and they advertised like a political party. So they were a political party. And the fact they weren't registered is just a convenient loophole."
When questioned about Mr. Farnworth's demands, Community Services Minister Ida Chong said her civil servants routinely consult with local authorities about amendments that could impact the way future elections are run. But Minister Chong added the Campbell administration is not presently contemplating any changes that would force Coquitlam First to retroactively disclose its contributions.
And was that decision influenced by the fact Coquitlam First campaigner Brian Bonney - who is advocating against such a disclosure - is also a Liberal field organizer? "He's an individual who was involved in a municipal campaign," responded the minister. "Certainly he gets involved in provincial campaigns as well. And when you get involved in a municipal campaign it's your volunteer time that allows you to be involved and engage in that. And he's certainly entitled to express his views and solicit whatever support he has on that. Our views - mine and our ministry - is to follow the process that's been in place for a number of years. And to ensure that - if changes are necessary, if and when they're necessary - we'll put them in place for 2008."
But Minister Chong also stated, "I realize people want to know who's donated to campaigns. And, quite frankly, I think people should want to disclose...So, you know, if there's pressure applied perhaps there will be a willingness on the part of the individuals to be more public" about who contributed to the Coquitlam First campaign.
The increasing isolation of Sam Sullivan has been a source of much concern among certain senior Non-Partisan Association members. Specifically, they are worried some of their colleagues may not necessarily be working in the mayor's best interest. As a result, our operatives inform us a number of supporters have arranged an evening meeting with the mayor this Friday at Morton's Steakhouse to let him - and his enemies - know they'll be watching his political back. No word yet on who's on the invite list.
Some of our astute readers will be acquainted with Terminal City's development permit board, whose purpose is "to consider various types of development applications, primarily those which, due to their scale and context, or because of community controversy, may have a significant impact on their surroundings." That board is advised by a panel of nine non-voting members who are appointed by city council for a two year term - four of which represent the general public. Or do they? Named to that panel as general public representatives during an in-camera meeting on March 21 were Darren Chung and Colleen Nystedt. Ms. Nystedt, of course, ran as a Non-Partisan Association council candidate in the recent election. And Mr. Chung, an association supporter, is presently a development assistant with Adera Development Corp. - "one of B.C.'s most trusted home builders." Two seats on the panel are already reserved for the development industry.
Earlier this week, The Tri-City News's Kate Trotter reported Coquitlam First - the provincial Liberal-linked group that ran a slate of seven candidates in the last civic election - hasn't disclosed where the $100,000 it spent on advertising and promotion came from. The reason: because "the Local Government Act does not speciically require it." This, according to an email from local government liason manager Marijke Edmondson to Coquitlam First representative Brian Bonney. In that message, Ms. Edmondson wrote because the slate wasn't registered as an electoral organization "there is no legal requirement to comply with campaign financing rules." And it looks like Mr. Bonney, who also works as a field organizer for the provincial Liberals, wants to keep public pressure from changing those rules. In an email leaked to Public Eye, the scoutmaster encourages supporters to vote "no" in a Tri-City News online poll asking readers "Should the Coquitlam First civic election slate fully disclose the list of contributors to its campaigns last fall?" Hmmm...could it be Mr. Bonney has something to hide? The following is a complete copy of that document, which was sent from his personal email address.
From: bb62
Sent: Mon 27/03/2006 1:17 PM
Subject: Poll
Hello,
If you have a second - could you click the link below and vote (I would prefer "no" !)
http://www.tricitynews.com/
Fascinating news from the lobby firm formerly known as Pilothouse Public Affairs Inc.: late last week, the company circulated an email to friends and associates announcing it has "embarked on an internal transition that will mark the beginning of Brian Kieran's preparation for inevitable retirement from government relations...It is our intention that he will remain fully engaged helping his current clients. Jamie Elmhirst will now assume the mantle of senior partner at K&E Public Affairs effective April 1, 2006." The following is a complete copy of that email, which we provide with this reminder: it was sent out prior to British Columbia Supreme Court Justice Elizabeth Bennett's Monday ruling that search warrant documents connected with police raid on the legislature should be made public.
From: Brian Kieran
Date: Fri, 24 Mar 2006 07:38:03 -0800
To: Brian Kieran
Subject: K&E Update
Friends and Associates:
K&E Public Affairs has embarked on an internal transition that will mark the beginning of Brian Kieran's preparation for inevitable retirement from government relations. After three decades in journalism and one decade in GR, Brian will be spending slightly less time in the office. It is our intention that he will remain fully engaged helping his current clients.
Jamie Elmhirst will now assume the mantle of senior partner at K&E Public Affairs effective April 1, 2006.
This transition also provides an opportunity for our associate Josh Christensen, who has been invaluable in a support capacity, to begin to assume more responsibility for direct client interaction.
Jamie Elmhirst & Brian Kieran
Hockey legend Ken Dryden skated into Victoria today as part of his campaign for the federal Liberal leadership. Wearing a black-on-black sports jacket and turtleneck outfit, the former Martin administration cabinet minister spoke with more than 70 local party notables about his aspirations. But that speech, which was delivered at the swanky Hotel Grand Pacific and featured crustless finger sandwiches, seemed somewhat short on policy substance and long on found poetry. The following are some verbatim examples in verse form.
On the ice (and spending "long-times in Opposition")
I have a goalie's mentality.
And on a team,
as you know,
there are two goalies.
But only one plays at a time.
And the problem for the goalie who isn't playing,
is that the goalie who is playing,
if he plays well enough,
the other goalie
may never see the ice again.
And you never want to leave the ice.
You never want to leave the ice.
You never want to leave the ice.
You want to stay on the ice.
And find those answers on the ice.
And stay there.
And keep staying there.
And the longer you're not there,
the longer you're not going to be there.
We need to win.
That's what holds all of this together.
On the ultimately
It's easy to say,
and it's mostly true,
that governments defeat themselves.
They don't get beaten by the underdog.
But that's ultimately.
That's what happens ultimately.
And how long is ultimately?
You have to wait for ultimately.
You work on the ultimately.
But ultimately takes a long time.
On the air
As the oil and gas are in the ground,
the wind is in the air.
The sun is in the air.
They're there.
Use it!
We use the stuff in the ground,
Why don't we use the stuff in the air?
It's there.
Mr. Dryden was also asked by an audience member what made him different from the other Liberal leadership contenders. His eventual response, after travelling a somewhat winding road: "It's a general sense that people will have inside here. And it works. And it's there. Or it isn't - in terms of others. But you have to feel more confident of me than of somebody else. (You have to feel) that when, in terms of something that comes up - some problem, some opportunity - that I'm going to have a better answer because of my understanding of this country than somebody else will on that." A second later there was applause and the question and answer period ended.
But, despite his haiku-like answers and difficulty in fully-articulating how he was different from his competitors, Mr. Dryden presentation seemed odd compelling to some Grits. One senior Liberal your humble organ spoke with admitted any of the other leadership candidates could have said the things Mr. Dryden did. The difference: "I actually believed him." Mr. Dryden is the latest hopeful to make a campaign swing through British Columbia but the only one so far to visit areas outside Vancouver and Victoria.
Amongst the chattering classes, Rich Coleman is considered one of several possible successors to Gordon Campbell should the premier retire as the leader of the provincial Liberals. But, according to the rumour mill, Minister Coleman might not be around to compete for that prize. Our operatives whisper the Fort Langley-Aldergrove MLA, who was first elected back in 1996, may not run again. And what does Minister Coleman have to say about those rumours? "Where would you hear that one?" he exclaimed when we caught up with him at the legislature yesterday. "I have never made that decision any sooner than a year out. So I wouldn't make it now. I have not made any overtures to anybody that I might not run...And I have no intention of not running right now."
Much hissing and pissing today among Terminal City Liberals following the cancellation of national party vice-president Mike Hillman's Saturday afternoon reception for leadership candidate Michael Igantieff. And what was the reason for that cancellation, you may wonder? Well, according to the rumour mill, there were concerns that Mr. Hillman's shoulder-rubbing session may have been in competition with an evening event at Gordon and Kilby Gibson residence. But, in an interview with Public Eye, Ms. Gibson assured us such concerns did not come from her: "I don't do the scheduling. I'm just hosting a party." Other scratch and sniff events being attended by Mr. Ignatieff include lunchtime gatherings organized by Farris, Vaughn, Wills and Murphy LLP managing partner Keith Mitchell on Friday and Vancouver Quadra riding president Craig Munroe on Saturday. Mr. Munroe's affair is being held at the Royal Vancouver Yatch Club.
It looks like Mike Witherly is the latest former federal Liberal staffer to hang his own shingle. Mr. Witherly, who headed Prime Minister Paul Martin's western desk, will be contracting out his services under the name Rushbrooke Communications. Rushbrooke is also the name of the Prince Rupert harbour where Mr. Witherly played when he was growing up. His consulting work will focus on four principal areas: provincial government relations, issue management, crisis management and First Nations consultations.
Earlier, we reported the provincial Liberals would soon be hosting a number of regional forums - one of the few ways the party waters its grassroots. But, in a comment posted on Public Eye, a long-time member and former Victoria-Beacon Hill constituency association policy representative wrote those discussions are "a complete joke and waste of time" - an opinion that seems to be, at least antecdotally, shared by many party members. The representative notes "policy ideas are not welcomed with the people in charge of the party completely ignoring any and all policy advice that is not their own making....It is a complete waste of time since the party chucks the convention policies into the trash immediately following convention. And does not even acknowledge the policies they pass at convention." The representative also confirmed the party will be holding its Vancouver Island Regional Forum on April 1 at the Coast Discovery Inn and Marina in Campbell River.
The provincial Liberals have never been especially good at cultivating their grassroots. But, occassionally, party hierarchs feel obligated to bring out a watering can to feed the rank and file. A case in point: on April 22, members have been invited to attend the Lower Mainland Regional Forum for the B.C. Liberal Party at the University Golf Club in Vancouver. Caucus members are also expected to attend the schmooze fest, where cardholders are expected to debate a handful of policies that will likely never make it into the legislature. Other regional forums are being scheduled for Liberals on Vancouver Island and in the Interior.
As we previously noted, Ontario Education Minister Gerard Kennedy would be in Vancouver over the weekend to talk up Terminal City Grits. Accounts of his performance at a reception hosted by national party vice-president Mike Hillman differ - with some describing his speech as a bit flat and others saying they were impressed with the sincere answers he gave during a lengthy question and answer session. Attendees also reported the would-be leadership candidate impressed by showing up five minutes before the event began, presenting a bouquet of flowers to Mr. Hillman's wife Donna and greeting guests at the door as they arrived. But more interesting were the ten private backroom meeting Minister Kennedy scheduled earlier in the day at The Fairmont Hotel Vancouver. According to our operatives, each of those meetings included a similar number of movers and shakers, grouped by friendship or past allegiance. For example, former Rock machine sprockets were at one such schmooze session.
Ken Dryden has just arrived at Vancouver International Airport as part of his two-day federal Liberal leadership campaign swing through British Columbia. Up until now, most of his competitors have confined themselves to schmoozing with Vancouver and Victoria-area party members. But Mr. Dryden - who seems to have a preferance for taxing travel schedules - will also be making stop-offs in Kamloops, Nanaimo, Richmond and Surrey. Meanwhile, in related news, we're told Earnscliffe senior associate Adam Johnson is helping coordinate the hockey's legend's Lotusland field trip. And rumour has it Mr. Johnson may soon be coming out in support of Mr. Dryden.
It seems our good friends at Community Living British Columbia are having some difficulty getting people to respect their authority. On Friday, the provincial government organization posted a request for qualifications on BC Bid looking for marketing and communication experts to create "a positive identity or brand image that will assist us in fostering an environment of respect for and confidence in CLBC." Of course, there are great many unpaid means Community Living British Columbia could use to improve that image. But we digress. The competition for that request for qualifications closes on April 7. The following is the relevant portion of that document.
Request for Qualifications
Communications and Marketing Services
Request for Qualification No. 81-CSG-2006-011-RFQ
Issue date: March 24, 2006
Closing location:
MAIL ONLY: COURIER/BY HAND:
2752 East 41st Avenue
Vancouver, B.C.
V5R 2X1
Attention: Mallory Boschalk
2752 East 41st Avenue
Vancouver, B.C.
V5R 2X1
Attention: Mallory Boschalk
Closing date and time: April 7, 2006, 2:00 p.m. PST
2 complete copies of each Response must be submitted.
Contact person: Mallory Boschalk, Contract Analyst
Telephone: (604) 660-2068
E-mail: mallory.boschalk@gov.bc.ca
4 Services
4.1 Service Areas
The following sub-sections list the training service topic areas and details of the types of training that the Province may require from Qualified Suppliers:
1: Branding/Identity:
As a new organization it is imperative CLBC creates a positive identity or brand image that will assist us in fostering an environment of respect for and confidence in CLBC. This branding and identity development will assist CLBC is further building an organizational culture of trust and respect as well as defining who we are and what we do to our stakeholders, partners and the public at large.
This project will include creative brand development, application of brand to all internal and external communication strategies and the development of a tactical plan to communicate the new CLBC. An understanding of and appreciation for Community input and feedback and a commitment to a collaborative approach is paramount.
2: Intranet/Internet/Newsletter Design and Content Development:
Integral to CLBC's branding initiative is the development of a comprehensive warehouse of supporting material and web-based communications. Projects undertaken will require the following skill sets:
* Technical skills required to write, edit and design web-based communications that accurately and strategically present sensitive and/or complex information to a variety of audiences.
* Utilizing creativity and innovation prepare web-based communications and provide expertise in the development of web-based communication materials.
* Development, implementation and evaluation of Web Strategic Plan and its objectives
* Assists with the development of training materials for content gathering from contributors, editors and authors. Provides support and clarification as needed for staff involved in web based projects and content development.
* Develops and implements tracking and data gathering mechanisms
* Identifies new developments and trends in web-based communications, through literature review, contact with peers in other organizations, industry advisor groups, professional associations and attendance at professional development events.
* Development of an integrated web-based system to support increased access to information and knowledge sharing internally and externally.
* Organizational electronic communication technology, desktop publishing and web-based technology practices.
3: Marketing/Special Events:
To support its public, media and government relations role, CLBC will be required to hold occasional press conferences and special events to respond to or proactively report on certain accomplishments and innovations. Services required may include:
* Presentation Services
* Communications technologies
* Event Staging
* Meeting and Conference Presentation Solutions
* Advanced Equipment Rentals
4: Media Relations Training:
Managers have been hired to manage CLBC's new service delivery model. In addition, as CLBC develops its identity and communicates its roles and responsibilities, greater public and media interest, both proactive and reactive, is anticipated. As such, identified CLBC staff will require media training to assist them in responding to local media questions, public inquiries and politically sensitive situations. Training consultants and or companies will have an understanding of the health service sector and a thorough working knowledge of the Community Living environment.
As our astute readers already know, federal Liberal leadership races aren't just for grown-ups. So it should come as no surprise to learn the party's junior wing is hosting a number of receptions for Paul Martin's would-be successors. Earlier today, the Young Liberal's British Columbia president Letlotlo "Coco" Lefoka notified members about upcoming scratch-and-sniff sessions with Ken Dryden and Gerard Kennedy. The following are copies of those invites.
From: Letlotlo Coco Lefoka
Sent: March 24, 2006 4:22 AM
To: YL
Subject: You are cordially invited to join the YLCBC as we host the Hon. Ken Dryden in a series of receptions across BC
You are cordially invited to join the YLCBC as we host The Hon. Ken Dryden in a series of receptions across British Columbia
Young Liberal Reception in Vancouver, Monday, March 27th
Young Liberal Luncheon in Victoria, Tuesday, March 28th
Reception in Kamloops, Tuesday, March 28th
Young Liberal Reception in Vancouver
Date: Monday, March 27th, 2006
Time: 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Venue: Library Square Pub
300 West Georgia., Vancouver
Young Liberal Reception in Victoria
Date: Tuesday March 28th, 2006
Time: 1:15 p.m. to 2:15 p.m.
Venue: Temple Restaurant, 525 Fort Street Victoria
R.S.V.P. to Adam Trombley, 858.4192, uvicliberals@yahoo.ca.
Reception in Kamloops
Date: Tuesday, March 28, 2006
Time: 7:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Venue: Hoodoos Bar & Grill at Sun Rivers Golf Resort Community, 1000 Club House Drive, Kamloops, BC
These receptions are another in a series of similar gatherings in British Columbia featuring prominent Liberals from across Canada. We think it is important to have an open dialogue about the future of our Party and who should lead it. 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 and youth issues are front and centre
Background
Ken Dryden was first elected to the House of Commons as the Member of Parliament for York Centre in 2004 and was re-elected in 2006. Ken is the Health Critic. During the last session of Parliament, he served as Minister of Social Development.
Ken is the author of four best-selling books: The Game, Home Game, The Moved and the Shaken, and In School. In 1984, he was appointed Ontario's first Youth Commissioner. Before entering federal politics, Ken served as President of the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Ken has been involved with several community and charitable groups with a particular focus on children, youth and education. In 1996, he created the Ken Dryden Scholarship, awarded to young people currently or formerly in the case of the Canadian child welfare system who demonstrate great achievement and promise. Each scholarship covers up to $3,000 of the cost of tuition and fees related to completing an undergraduate degree in a Canadian university or college.
Ken is well-known for his achievements as goaltender for the Montreal Canadiens hockey team from 1971 to 1979, during which time the team went on to win six Stanley cups. Ken is a proud member of the Hockey Hall of Fame, the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame and the International Scholar-Athlete Hall of Fame.
Ken holds a degree in history from Cornell University and a degree in Law from McGill University. He has also received honorary doctoral degrees from the universities of Ottawa, Windsor, York, McMaster, St. Mary's, Niagara and British Columbia
Ken and his wife, Lynda, have two grown children, Sarah and Michael.
Letlotlo Coco Lefoka
President
Young Liberals of Canada in British Columbia
460 - 580 Hornby Street
Vancouver,
British Columbia
V6C 3B6
***
From: Letlotlo Coco Lefoka
Sent: March 23, 2006 6:49 PM
To: YL
Subject: Your invited to Young Liberal Reception with the Hon. Gerrard Kennedy Saturday
You are cordially invited to a Young Liberal reception with
The Hon. Gerard Kennedy
Time: 1:15 PM - 2:15 PM
Date: Saturday March 25th
Place: Lupo Cafe, 1016 West Georgia St., Vancouver , BC
Please join us as we discuss the future of the Liberal Party of Canada and the Young Liberals of Canada in British Columbia.
This reception is another in a series of similar gatherings in British Columbia featuring prominent Liberals from across Canada.
Background:
Gerard Kennedy believes in leading by appealing to the better side of people's nature.
First elected to the Ontario Legislature in a 1996 by-election and coming second in the Liberal leadership selection the same year, Gerard has quickly become one of the Legislature's most effective voices. His "roll up your sleeves and pitch-in" style, hard-hitting critiques, and published studies have forced the Tory government to back down on numerous issues affecting patients, seniors, consumers, and students in his riding and across the province. First serving as Liberal Housing and Consumer Relations Co-Critic, then named Health Critic in a time of cutbacks and hospital closing, Gerard proposed several solutions the government was eventually forced to adopt.
Re-elected in the 1999 election, Gerard continues to demand that the Eves-Harris government give honest and fair treatment to Ontarians as a forceful advocate of quality public education. As Education Critic since 1999, he has visited dozens of schools across the province and used this perspective to help develop an innovative Peace Plan in 2000 that helped bring extracurricular activities back to the province's high school students, an annual MPP Back to School Challenge, and the current Liberal education platform "Excellence for All".
Gerard's involvement in Parkdale-High Park dates back to the Daily Bread Food Bank's original location in The Junction, where hundreds of people from nearby neighbourhoods volunteered.
As executive director of the Food Bank from 1986 to 1996, Gerard worked with church groups, social service organizations, and corporate CEOs. Without a dime of government money, he was responsible for distributing $30 million worth of food annually, reaching over 150,000 people every month. The Toronto Star called him "Newsmaker of the Year" in 1993 and two years later the Financial Post magazine awarded him an "honourable mention" as its CEO of the Year.
Gerard's broad community interest in Toronto is reflected in his leadership roles in the Social Planning Council of Metropolitan Toronto, Metro's Expo 2000, and the Toronto theatre group Mixed Company. In 2002 he was chosen as one of our city's "Torontonians of Distinction".
Gerard, 42, was educated at Trent University and the University of Alberta in political science and economics. Gerard, his wife Jeanette, and their children, daughter Théria and son John-Julien live in west Toronto.
For more information
Sun article about Gerard: http://torontosun.com/News/Columnists/Blizzard_Christina/2006/03/22/1499294.html
Letlotlo Coco Lefoka
President
Young Liberals of Canada in British Columbia
460 - 580 Hornby Street
Vancouver,
British Columbia
V6C 3B6
Earlier, we reported on Greg Elzinga and Jeff Melland's plans to "improve democracy, accountability and transparency" within the Non-Partisan Association by introducing a package of bylaw amendments at the civic party's upcoming annual general meeting.. Those amendments were inspired by the brouhaha that broke out in January when Doug Leung and Colin Metcalfe were appointed to that august body via email. Those appointments happened without directors waiting for comment from then president Paul Barbeau. But, in an email sent to Public Eye, Alex Tsakumis takes issue with our characterization that Mr. Barbeau wasn't consulted. And he goes onto note "the notion that the appointment of two excellent (sic) Directors like Messrs. Metcalfe and Leung was done to usurp the President's authority by not concuslting (sic) him first, is a bold faced lie." The following is a complete copy of that email.
From: A.G. Tsakumis
Sent: 23 March 2006 10:26
To: editorial@publiceyeonline.com
Subject: Operation Enduring Correction(s)!
Sean:
You continue to do a disservice to your readers by allowing the lie to continue that Paul Barbeau was not consulted regarding the appointments to the NPA Board of Colin Metcalfe and Douglas Leung.
1) Paul Barbeau received every single email that everyone else on the Board received regarding Director appointments and was thus notified appropriately and according to the rules governing the Board.
2) Paul Barbeau knew of the movement to appoint Doug Leung and Colin Metcalfe to the Board as early in the process of doing so as November 22, 2005. He was informed by a member of the Board accordingly, on that date, that this was a motion that would be then forthcoming sometime in the new year.
3) Paul Barbeau, himself, during the election had sent "last minute" motions by email to the Board, some of which passed and some which did not. The idea that this was done as a "new" method of passing motions between Board Meetings is incorrect. The genesis of these email motions was Greg Wilson, our previous Secretary, who quite correctly tried to streamline the business of the Board. Not one member of the Board, either at that time, nor since, raised any problems with that process (until it didn't suit one former member politically and she resigned because of it). A very few members raised this issue as a problem in the aftermath of Paul Barbeau's resignation as President of the NPA. The vast majority were comfortable in their decision(s).
Therefore, the notion that the appointment of two excellent Directors like Messrs. Metcalfe and Leung was done to usurp the President's authority by not concuslting him first, is a bold faced lie.
Please refrain from repeating that lie. You have done so in various postings, several times since January, and it does no good to the credibility of what you write, nor does it honour what I assume you should still covet, the truth.
I wish you continued success.
Kind regards,
A.G. (Alex) Tsakumis
Director,
Civic Non-Partisan Association
Earlier, we exclusively told you Brian Berglund - one of the primary contractors for the controversial CareNet Technology Society - had been hired as the chief information officer for Community Living British Columbia. At the time, the authority's communications director Sally Greenwood refused to disclose the value of that contract, noting "In these situations it is my responsibility to err on the side of caution and to utilize the (Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act) as a means of ensuring appropriate confidentiality while supporting transparency." This, despite the fact government routinely discloses the value of such contracts. And now we may know why Ms. Greenwood was reluctant to talk about the price tag for the authority's new chief information officer. Under inquiry from provincial New Democrat critic Adrian Dix, Children and Family Development Minister Stan Hagen revealed Mr. Berglund would be paid "a maximum of $216,000 each year, including allowance for expenses." That pricey contract was awarded following a competitive bid process that was open for 15 days.
It looks like the federal Conservatives have extracted another staffer from the Rockpile: Attorney General Wally Oppal's ministerial assistant Jason Kuzminski is bound for Ottawa where he will be the parliamentary affairs director for Citizenship and Immigration Minister Monte Solberg. He's replaced by Tom Brown, who was the senior aide to Health Minister George Abbott. And that means a promotion for Minister Abbott's junior aide Alex Dutton, who will be going onto fill Mr. Brown's shoes.
Federal Conservatives made much ado about the Liberal's "culture of entitlement" during the recent election campaign. So how can the Grits change that perception? How about by booking their leadership receptions at private clubs? Because that's exactly what Ivy Leaguer Michael Ignatieff will be doing on March 31, when he schmoozes with Garden City Grits at The Union Club of British Columbia, which describes itself as being "home to generations of leaders in commerce, industry and government" who have "helped to determine the economic and political course of the city, the province and indeed the country." Meanwhile, in related travel news, it is our understanding fellow leadership contenders John Godfrey and Belinda Stronach will be coming back to British Columbia next week.
Your humble organ has reported at length on international contractor of mystery (Public Eye passim) Lesley du Toit's comings and goings. But how is that the premier office assigned her "to provide advice on transforming services for children and youth in British Columbia" in the first place? Since the West Annex doesn't seem interested or willing to talk about Ms. du Toit, we believe this question warrants some investigation. And one part of the answer might have something to do with a presentation she made on November 1, 2005 at the behest of the province's child and youth officer Jane Morley. That presentation - entitled Transforming the Child Welfare System - was delivered to senior bureaucrats and select community members at the Harbour Towers Hotel and Suites. And some of our operatives wonder whether she gave a similar talk to cabinet ministers during the week that followed, while she was still in Victoria.
Astute readers will remember the brouhaha that broke out in January when Non-Partisan Association directors appointed two new board members via email without waiting for comment from then president Paul Barbeau. The handling of those appointments resulted in Mr. Barbeau's resgination. And it looks to have been the inspiration for a package of bylaw changes being sponsored by board hopefuls Jeff Melland and Greg Elzinga. The changes would make email votes invalid unless two-thirds of the board member participate after receiving a 72 hour notice. And the package would also eliminate the board's ability to appoint five additional directors over and above those elected by the membership. Such seats are presently occupied by Marko Dekovic and Alex Tsakumis. The following is a complete copy of those amendments, which are being proposed for debate at the association's upcoming annual general meeting - although there seems to be a move afoot to ensure they don't make it to the floor.
BYLAW AMENDMENTS TO IMPROVE DEMOCRACY, ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRANSPARENCY ON THE NPA BOARD
Preamble:
The NPA has much to be proud of in its 2005 campaign success. Civic politics is always a bit chaotic, and we proved once again that we could navigate the minefield of competing interests to present the most attractive, responsible vision for our city.
The NPA's renewal process still has room for improvement in one area: between elections, our volunteer Board structure should better reflect the needs of the caucus and Association as a whole. I have spoken with a number of members, including former Board members, and I believe the problems can be fixed by making our Board more democratic, accountable, and transparent to its members.
Our bylaws prescribe a board substantially unchanged since the 1930s, and it is time to update our association to reflect the way political organizing is done in 2006. We should ensure that there is no risk that there is a perception that the NPA is controlled by a "back room."
THE "MAKE THE BOARD MORE DEMOCRATIC" AMENDMENTS
This motion is intended to:
* allow NPA members the opportunity to elect all Board members who represent them
* eliminate the ability for a faction of the Board to appoint Directors beyond the normal elected allotment, and thereby to control the Board undemocratically
* make it possible for the Board to appoint Directors only if an elected spot becomes vacant and only until the next AGM, then to require a by-election
Current Wording of Bylaws
Bylaw 21 currently reads as follows:
"The Board of Directors shall consist of 15 Directors, each of whom shall be elected for a 3-year-term, 5 to be elected at each Annual General Meeting. Nominations of Directors shall be made by 2 members in good standing as proposer and seconder. A quorum at any meeting of the Board of Directors of the Association shall consist of 8 members of the Board. The Directors of the Association shall have the power to appoint up to 5 additional Directors (hereinafter referred to as "Appointed Directors") who will be additional members of the Board of Directors, such appointments to be for a term expiring at the commencement of the Annual General Meeting next ensuing after appointment."
Bylaw 23 currently reads as follows:
"The Directors may act notwithstanding any vacancy in their body. If a member of the Board of Directors shall resign or if a vacancy shall occur by death or otherwise, the Directors shall have power to choose a member in good standing to fill such vacancy until the next Annual General Meeting of the Association. "
Proposed Amendments
BIRT Bylaw 21 be amended to exclude the following words:
The Directors of the Association shall have the power to appoint up to 5 additional Directors (hereinafter referred to as "Appointed Directors") who will be additional members of the Board of Directors, such appointments to be for a term expiring at the commencement of the Annual General Meeting next ensuing after appointment.
BIFRT all bylaws be amended to exclude reference to "Appointed Directors"
BIFRT Bylaw 23 be amended to read:
If any Director or Executive Member resigns or causes a vacancy by death or otherwise, the Board shall have the power to choose any member in good standing to fill that position until the next General Meeting of the Association. If the position in question is in the first year of a two-year term, an election for the remainder of that term will be held as a by-election at the next General Meeting of members of the Association.
BIFRT all bylaws be renumbered to reflect consecutive numbering and sub-numbering.
BIFRT this motion will take effect upon the adjournment of this meeting.
THE "MAKE THE BOARD ACCOUNTABLE" AMENDMENTS
This motion is intended to:
* afford, for the first time, members the opportunity to choose its Executive, including official spokespeople
* ensure that some Officers demonstrate their suitability for specific tasks, and calibrate their nominations to how well they will pursue those activities
* set up standing committees chaired by those Executive, to ensure that committees remain active between elections
* move the NPA toward a normal structure for political organizations that do not have staff
Current Wording of Bylaws
Bylaw 21 currently reads as follows:
"The Board of Directors shall consist of 15 Directors, each of whom shall be elected for a 3-year-term, 5 to be elected at each Annual General Meeting. Nominations of Directors shall be made by 2 members in good standing as proposer and seconder. A quorum at any meeting of the Board of Directors of the Association shall consist of 8 members of the Board. The Directors of the Association shall have the power to appoint up to 5 additional Directors (hereinafter referred to as "Appointed Directors") who will be additional members of the Board of Directors, such appointments to be for a term expiring at the commencement of the Annual General Meeting next ensuing after appointment."
Bylaw 22 currently reads as follows:
"The Officers, being a President, a Secretary and a Treasurer, shall be elected from among and by the members of the Board of Directors and shall retire at each Annual General Meeting but shall be eligible for re-election provided that the President shall not hold office for more than a period of 5 consecutive years."
Proposed Amendments (in addition to any other amendments made at this meeting)
BIRT by-laws 21 and 22 be amended to include the following:
21. The Board of Directors shall consist of sixteen directors:
Seven Executive members
Eight Directors-at-large
The Past President
22. The Directors of the Association shall be chosen as follows:
Nominations of Directors shall be made by 2 members in good standing as proposer and seconder.
Notice of intention to run must be given by e-mail or in writing to the President at least 14 days prior to a General Meeting of the membership
The following Executive Members are to be elected by individual ballots at each Annual General Meeting for a one-year term, with no person standing for more than one position, including the position of Director-at-large:
President
Vice President
Secretary
Treasurer
Membership Chair
Youth NPA President (voting amongst members under 35 years of age only)
Youth NPA Vice President (voting amongst members under 35 years of age only)
Eight Directors-at-large may be elected for two year terms, with four positions normally filled at each General meeting.
The position of Past President, to be held ex-officio for a maximum of one year by the individual who held the position of President immediately previous to the current President, and who does not currently hold the position of President, provided that he or she is a member in good standing.
BIFRT all bylaws be renumbered to reflect consecutive numbering and sub-numbering.
BIFRT this motion will take effect at the next General Meeting of the Association.
BIFRT Directors-at-large elected at the 2005 and 2006 meetings for three-year terms may serve the remainder of their terms as Directors. Prior to 2009, this may result in a greater number of Directors than sixteen. Should these Directors resign, their positions cannot be reassigned by the Board.
THE "HELP THE BOARD UNDERSTAND ITS ROLE" AMENDMENTS
This motion is intended to:
* help new Executive members understand their roles
* ensure that the NPA continues its vital activities even after a potential election loss
* ensure continuity on the Board
* ensure that active members not on the Board have a mechanism to participate
Current Wording of Bylaws
Bylaws 30-33 read:
30. The President shall preside at all Meetings of the Association and of the Board of Directors, and shall exercise supervision over the officers, the affairs of the Association and the activities of its committees.
31. It shall be the duty of the Directors to carry out the duties of the President during his absence and to assist as required.
32. The Secretary shall, or shall cause the following to be done:
a. Issue notices of meetings of the Association and Board of Directors;
b. Keep minutes of all meetings of the Association, and the Board of Directors;
c. Have custody of all records and documents of the Association except those required to be kept by the Treasurer;
d. Have custody of the common seal of the Association; and
e. Maintain the register of Members.
33. The Treasurer shall:
a. Ensure the safekeeping of the financial records, including books of account, necessary to comply with the Society Act; and
b. Render financial statements to the Board of Directors, members and others when required.
Proposed Amendments
BIRT Bylaws 30-33 be amended to read:
The duties of the Executive include the following:
President - Where possible, the President shall preside at all Meetings of the Board of Directors, and shall exercise supervision over the officers, the affairs of the Association and the activities of its committees. The President will preside over meetings according to a commonly accepted system of Rules of Order.
Vice President - In addition to performing the duties of a Director-at-large, the Vice President will preside at Meetings of the Association where the President is unavailable.
Secretary - shall, or shall cause the following to be done:
i Issue notices of meetings of the Association and Board of Directors;
ii. Keep minutes of all meetings of the Association, and the Board of Directors;
iii Have custody of all records and documents of the Association except those required to be kept by the Treasurer;
iv. Have custody of the common seal of the Association; and
v. Maintain the register of members.
Treasurer - shall:
i. Ensure the safekeeping of the financial records, including books of account, necessary to comply with the Society Act; and
ii. Render financial statements to the Board of Directors, members and others when required.
Membership Chair - shall convene an advisory committee of members to recruit new members to the Association and to ensure information is regularly conveyed to existing members.
YNPA President - shall convene and preside over an advisory committee known as the "YNPA Executive" to convene social and political activities of interest to NPA members under the age of 35. The YNPA President shall convene annual elections for the YNPA Executive subject to rules approved by the Board.
YNPA Vice President - shall assist the YNPA President in his or her duties.
BIFRT Bylaw 28 be amended to begin:
"With the exception of Committees chaired by Executive,"
BIFRT all bylaws be renumbered to reflect consecutive numbering and sub-numbering.
BIFRT this motion will take effect upon commencement of the next General Meeting of the Association.
THE "MAKE THE NPA MORE PROFESSIONAL" AMENDMENTS
This motion is intended to:
* ensure that the Board operates fairly and professionally
* ensure that the Board may use e-mail ballots, but only in special circumstances
* ensure that Board members respect the sensitivity of financial and personal information that may come to them in their duties as Directors
Current Wording of Bylaws
Bylaw 21 currently reads as follows:
"The Board of Directors shall consist of 15 Directors, each of whom shall be elected for a 3-year-term, 5 to be elected at each Annual General Meeting. Nominations of Directors shall be made by 2 members in good standing as proposer and seconder. A quorum at any meeting of the Board of Directors of the Association shall consist of 8 members of the Board. The Directors of the Association shall have the power to appoint up to 5 additional Directors (hereinafter referred to as "Appointed Directors") who will be additional members of the Board of Directors, such appointments to be for a term expiring at the commencement of the Annual General Meeting next ensuing after appointment."
Proposed Amendments
BIRT Bylaw 21 have the following clauses added.
Board decisions by teleconference, mail ballot or e-mail ballot, will carry force of a majority vote only if participation, including recorded abstentions, includes two-thirds of Board members. The President must make a reasonable attempt to contact all Board members in the event of such a motion. Such motions may not be amended and may not take effect for at least 72 hours following the vote
Board meetings will be run according to a commonly accepted system of Rules of Order chosen by the Board at its inaugural meeting after each General Meeting.
A quorum at any meeting of the Board of Directors of the Association shall consist of a simple majority of the Board. (This clause shall replace the quorum requirement in the original bylaw, if that requirement still exists)
All Board members shall be required to sign a Confidentiality Agreement as approved by the Board annually. The wording of the Confidentiality Agreement shall be available to all members as requested.
BIFRT all bylaws be renumbered to reflect consecutive numbering and sub-numbering.
BIFRT this motion will take effect upon the adjournment of this meeting.
Earlier, we reported party national vice-president Mike Hillman would be hosting a reception for Ontario Education Minister Gerard Kennedy this weekend. But who, you may wonder, is organizing Mr. Kennedy's West coast expedition? Five names have been whispered in our ear: Martini drinkers David Brodie, who headed up the Liberal prime minister's western desk, and Earnscliffe Strategy Group Inc. principal Bruce Young; Rock machine sprockets Dean Crawford, who now works at Harris and Company LLP, and Vancouver Quadra riding president Craig Munroe; and Neil Sweeney, former deputy chief of staff to Premier Gordon Campbell.
More federal Liberal travel news: earlier, we reported leadership candidate Ken Dryden would be attending a reception in Victoria at the Hotel Grand Pacific's Vancouver Island Ballroom on March 28. And now we've learned invites have been sent out for a similar event on March 27 at the offices of Farris, Vaughn, Wills and Murphy LLP. That event will be hosted by firm partner James Hatton. A copy of the invite can be found below. Meanwhile, we're told Liberal international trade critic Dominic LeBlanc - who is co-chairing the Grit leadership convention - will be in the Big Smoke tomorrow on a personal trip. That trip will include a breakfast meeting with the party's Vancouver-Kingsway constituency association. The likely topic of discussion: Mr. LeBlanc's counterpart, riding MP David Emerson.
From: James Hatton
Sent: Wednesday, March 22, 2006 12:31 PM
To: James Hatton
Subject: Ken Dryden, March 27, 6pm at Farris
You are cordially invited to a reception with
Ken Dryden
Monday, March 27, 2006
6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
At the Law Offices of Farris, Vaughn, Wills & Murphy LLP
25th Floor, 700 W Georgia St, Vancouver, BC
Please join us as we discuss the future of the Liberal Party of Canada and the Liberal Party of Canada in B.C.
This reception is another in a series of similar gatherings in British Columbia featuring prominent Liberals from across Canada.
We think it is important to have an open dialogue about the future of our Party and who should lead it. 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.
Ken Dryden was first elected to the House of Commons as the Member of Parliament for York Centre in 2004 and was re-elected in 2006. Ken is the Health Critic. During the last session of Parliament, he served as Minister of Social Development.
Ken is the author of four best-selling books: The Game, Home Game, The Moved and the Shaken, and In School. In 1984, he was appointed Ontario's first Youth Commissioner. Before entering federal politics, Ken served as President of the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Ken has been involved with several community and charitable groups with a particular focus on children, youth and education. In 1996, he created the Ken Dryden Scholarship, awarded to young people currently or formerly in the care of the Canadian child welfare system who demonstrate great achievement and promise. Each scholarship covers up to $3,000 of the cost of tuition and fees related to completing an undergraduate degree in a Canadian university or college.
Ken is well-known for his achievements as goaltender for the Montreal Canadiens hockey team from 1971 to 1979, during which time the team went on to win six Stanley cups. Ken is a proud member of the Hockey Hall of Fame, the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame and the International Scholar-Athlete Hall of Fame.
Ken holds a degree in history from Cornell University and a degree in Law from McGill University. He has also received honorary doctoral degrees from the universities of Ottawa, Windsor, York, McMaster, St. Mary's, Niagara and British Columbia.
Ken and his wife, Lynda, have two grown children, Sarah and Michael.
Federal Conservative British Columbia godfather John Reynolds, who co-chaired the party's campaign in the last election, will be the target of a tribute on May 25. The location: The Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, a majestic railroad hotel that opened its doors back in 1939 and continues to be a Terminal City institution - kind of like Mr. Reynolds himself, who was born just three years later. Tickets for the event will be $200. Mr. Reynolds is presently working for Lang and Mitchener LLP as a strategic advisor.
The federal election may be over - as are the...er...heady days of the Martin administration. But it looks like the Liberal prime minister's former communications director and chief speechwriter will still be working together. Scott Reid and Scott "Blog Boy" Feschuk have opened their own speechwriting boutique - Feschuk.Reid - catering to the needs of chief executives officers and senior executives. And that means Canadian industry captains will now have the opportunity to sound exactly like Paul Martin - in content, if not in form.
This morning, The Toronto Star is reporting "Ontario Education Minister Gerard Kennedy is expected to officially enter the federal Liberal leadership contest next month." Confirmation of that report is pending, with Minister Kennedy insiting yesterday "he has not made a final decision." But Public Eye has learned national party vice-president Mike Hillman will be hosting a reception for the could-be candidate in Vancouver this coming Saturday from 5:00 to 7:00. Invites to that reception haven't yet been distributed but are expected to be arriving in Grit inboxes later today.
The federal Conservative's national campaign manager Doug Finley - who has been described ad nauseum by the press as a "dour Scotsman" - will soon be parachuting into British Columbia (possibly this weekend). The occassion: a post-mortem of the recent election, where campaign managers from across the province will have an opportunity to give their take on what went wrong and what went right. A similar exercise was conducted following the 2004 campaign and is internally considered one of the reasons why the Tories are now in government.
The provincial Liberal caucus is renowned for their ability to sing in perfect harmony - even under the most demanding of circumstances. So it comes as no surprise the Campbell administration would be employing a conductor as one of their communications trainers. According to our operatives, in December 2004, Peter McCoppin, the Victoria Symphony's world-renowned conductor laureate, delivered his Mastering the Art of Communication presentation to caucus staff - receiving high marks from attendees. And he continues to coach some of the administration's MLAs on a one-on-one basis via his company McCoppin Enterprises Inc.
By now, our astute readers will be well-acquainted with the invite that heralds the arrival of a federal Liberal leadership candidate in British Columbia. The latest notifies members that former cabinet minister Ken Dryden will be attending a reception in Victoria at the Hotel Grand Pacific's Vancouver Island Ballroom on March 28. Meanwhile, provocateur Jonathan Ross reported on the weekend that Gordon and Kilby Gibson - will be hosting a reception for brainiac Michael Ignatieff on April 1. The following is a complete copy of the aforementioned email.
----- Original Message -----
From: Jamie Elmhirst
Sent: 21 March 2006 14:07
To: 'Jamie Elmhirst'
Subject: You are cordially invited....
Importance: High
You are cordially invited to a reception with
Hon. Ken Dryden
Tuesday, March 28, 2006
12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Vancouver Island Ballroom
Grand Pacific Hotel
436 Belleville Street, Victoria
Food and Refreshments will be provided
Please join us as we discuss the future of the Liberal Party of Canada and the LPC in B.C.
This reception is amongst a series of similar gatherings in British Columbia featuring prominent Liberals from across Canada.
We think it is important to have an open dialogue about the future of our Party and who should lead it. 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.
Please feel free to share with invitation with other interested Liberals.
Earlier, we exclusively reported the premier and cabinet minister Stan Hagen allegedly tried to influence bureaucrats to hurry the sale of Crown land sought by developer and hockey legend Geoff Courtnall. This, according to internal government emails obtained by Shawnigan Lake Watershed Watch via a freedom of information request. Minister Hagen wasn't available for comment on Friday. But, when we caught up with him at the Rockpile today, he said he didn't think there was a problem with that kind of politicking. And, when it comes to Mr. Courtnall's specific file, he added "I don't think there was political involvement. I don't know whether I phoned" the government agency responsible for Crown land sales "or just had a staff member contact them to move the process along. I don't think that's inappropriate at all." He also stated "if somebody was interested in purchasing a piece of Crown land or leasing a piece of Crown land then you'd want to make sure that the process was moving ahead." In fact, insiders say the same thing happened when the New Democrats were in power. The sale of the land in question did not proceed. A version of this article will be published in tomorrow's edition of 24 hours.
On Wednesday, government is scheduled to announce a replacement for Louise Burgart - the provincial Liberal supporter who resigned from the supposedly non-partisan electoral boundary commission last month. Earlier, we reported that replacement would be a former school superintendant. And now we have a name to go along with that description: Penticton resident Stewart Ladyman. In an interview with Public Eye, Mr. Ladyman said he was told about the appointment today, with Speaker of the Legislative Assembly Bill Barisoff having contacted him last week about the job. When asked whether he had ever actively supported one party over another, Mr. Ladyman said "I'm non-partisan. And that's what I told the speaker." Although he added, with a chuckle, "I'm aware of political parties and know them quite well." Mr. Ladyman made headlines in 2000 as the co-chair of a 15-month government review of the province's special education system.
Back in early February, we reported on the resignation of provincial Liberal supporter Louise Burgart from the supposedly non-partisan electoral boundary commission. And now, more than a month later, we hear that a replacement has been found. In a brief interview, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly Bill Barisoff confirmed the appointee will be announced on Wednesday. And, according to our operatives, it's a former school superintendant.
Earlier, we reported rumours that departing Non-Partisan Association hierarch Alex Tsakumis may have attempted to convince Jeff Melland not to run in the civic party's upcoming board elections. In an interview with Public Eye, Mr. Tsakumis said those rumours were "completely untrue...I have had several conversations with Jeff which culminated in an email from Jeff thanking me for being supportive of him and the advice he asked me for. He called me. I didn't call him." When asked about that statement Mr. Melland, the association's former parks board campaign coordinator, said. "It's true that I phoned (Mr. Tsakumis) first because (board member) Cameron St. John recommended that I do so. Because when Alex Tsakumis found out that I was talking about running, he called Cameron. So I called Alex. And he didn't offer me an appointment" to the board - another rumour, which has been circulating. "But he did really strongly suggest that I not run. And he very strongly recommended that I seek an appointment on the board. And I took that in."
"But an appointment on the board is not something that I'm interested in for two reasons," Mr. Melland added. "One: I don't think it's democratic. And two: I don't think there's a lot you can accomplish in one year. I think three years would give me a lot more time to accomplish the things that need to be done on the NPA board as far as election readiness and making sure the next time we go to the polls in 2008 that we have a more candidate-centred approach. And to be really honest with you, I think the whole practice of appointing members to the board ought to be abolished."
Earlier, we reported Vancouver-Burrard provincial Liberal riding association president Jeff Melland would be running for a seat on the Non-Partisan Association's board of directors. But, according to the rumour mill, some association hierarchs have been trying to convince him not to step up to the starting line - specifically departing board member Alex Tsakumis. So we phoned up Mr. Tsakumis to see if there was any truth to that gossip. His response: "It's completely untrue. My position with Jeff Melland has been consistent from the beginning. I think he's an excellent candidate. And if he wishes to run, he's welcome to do so. I don't know why my name would come up like that."
Mr. Tsakumis also said, "I have had several conversations with Jeff which culminated in an email from Jeff thanking me for being supportive of him and the advice he asked me for. He called me. I didn't call him." When asked about further rumours that he might have offered Mr. Melland a board appointment if he didn't run, Mr. Tsakumis stated "Whatever I discussed with Jeff, very simply put, was at a time where I may have been considering a run (for the board). But because of other commitments and other things which may be happening in the next month to 60 days for me, I will not be able to run for the NPA."
The premier and a senior provincial minister allegedly tried to influence bureaucrats to hurry the sale of Crown land sought by developer and hockey legend Geoff Courtnall, according to internal government emails provided exclusively to Public Eye. That sale, which concerned properties on Old Baldy Mountain near Shawnigan Lake, ultimately didn't happen. And an insider familiar with provincial land sales when the New Democrats were in government says this kind of politicking "happens fairly regularly...It's part of normal lobbying activity. I don't find anything particularly nefario