Tonight, on Public Eye Radio, Martha Hall-Findlay discusses her campaign to be leader of the federal Liberals. Mark Podlalsy, a policy chair from the Grit's renewal commission, talks about how the party can use the Internet to win the next election. And we'll speak with Global Medical Services Ltd. president Allan Holmes about pandemic preparedness in British Columbia. Also on the show: progressive journalist Murray Dobbin, NOW Communications Inc. president Ron Johnson and rabblerouser Brad Zubyk debate whether the New Democrats were right to not attack the Conservatives in the last election. Former Socred research director George Gibault will be in studio to give his take on the connection between youth poverty and youth political apathy. And Darrell Evans, executive director of British Columbia's Freedom of Information and Privacy Association, sounds off about the latest Campbell administration threat to openness and accountability in the provincial government. 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, Willie Lambert discusses his race against Buzz Hargrove to be the Canadian Auto Workers Union's national president. Margaret Birrell, executive director of the British Columbia Coalition for People with Disabilities, talks about the provincial government's controversial Adult Guardianship and Personal Planning Statutes Amendment Act. And provincial New Democrat Esquimalt-Metchosin MLA Maurine Karagianis will be in studio with government relations consultant Michael Geoghegan to chew over the Lobbyists Registration Act. Also on the show: we'll chat with federal Green David Chernushenko about his bid for the party leadership. And our regular panel of rabblerousers - John Heaney, Bob Russell, Bernard Schulmann and Allan Warnke - will debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. 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.
Former provincial Liberal backbencher Sheila Orr will soon be breaking bread with New Democrat leader Carole James. But that privilege isn't going to come cheap. In an interview with your humble organ, Ms. Orr confirmed she and local philanthropist Donna Thomas are paying $300 to schmooze with Ms. James in the legislative dining room. That was the final price tag of "A Bite with Carol" - one of the auction items at a April 1 fundraiser for the Citizens Counselling Centre. Said Ms. Orr, "It's a great organization to support. They actually give services - counselling services - to people who can't afford to pay a counsellor. So, for $10, you get to go see a counsellor. And, as far as I'm concerned, this was a non-partisan event." Ms. Orr added she wouldn't be providing any free political counselling services to Ms. James during their meal.
Yesterday, provincial New Democrat MLA Maurine Karagianis wondered aloud why government relations consultant Michael Geoghegan can report to have a "high level of access to decision-makers and opinion leaders within the government" which he uses "get results that others can't" even though he's not registered as a lobbyist. But, in an interview with your humble organ, Mr. Geoghegan explained he recently tried to get a hold of the lobbyist registrar: "I phoned twice and emailed them last week and have yet to hear from a living person in that department. Is anyone still working there? Cause I'm singularly unimpressed with their inability to get back to anyone who leaves a message with them."
Who's that we see jumping aboard federal Liberal leadership candidate Gerrard Kennedy's band wagon? Why it's none other than Janice Nicholson, former parliamentary affairs director to Prime Minister Paul Martin. Ms. Nicholson, who has a properisity for punk rock music, was also the Liberal's deputy campaign director during the last election. Meanwhile, your humlbe organ is also hearing rumours former provincial Liberal caucus communications director and Rosedeer Strategies Inc. founder Mike McDonald is backing Bob Rae in his bid for the Grit leadership. But Mr. McDonald has not yet returned calls seeking comment.
Back in August 2001, The Vancouver Sun's Stephen Hume reported the Esquimalt and Songhees Nation bands had filed a lawsuit "claiming ownership of the land on which the province's legislature sits." The lawsuit - which asks British Columbia's Supreme Court to award the bands "unspecified damages and a declaration that the province is a trespasser on the land" - is scheduled to go to court in late September. And now, Public Eye has learned, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly Bill Barisoff's office is looking to get in on the legal action. On March 31, Paul Pearlman of Fuller, Pearlman, McNeil advised the parties already involved in the case that the speaker's office would be making an application to join the proceedings. A senior staffer from that office - which has jurisdiction over the legislative precincts - declined to say why they needed legal representation seperate from government. But, according to the rumourmill, it understood the speaker wants to ensure the province retains ownership of the buildings, even if the land their on is transferred to the bands. The case is being heard by Justice Marvyn Koenigsberg.
Is the Canadian Union of Public Employees snubbing Vision Vancouver? That's the question some are asking after the union's British Columbia division invited Coalition of Progressive Electors Councillor David Cadman to speak at at their forty-third annual convention rather than a Vision representative. But, in an interview with your humble organ, union communications representative Daniel Gawthrop explained, "Obviously, we weren't going to ask the mayor" to deliver welcoming remarks from the City of Vancouver. "We don't agree with a lot of the stuff he's been doing. So it's a good old case of union seniority. Cadman's been (on city council) the longest. And there's only one person from the city we can invite. It wasn't a case of choosing one (party) over another. We didn't mean to piss anyone off." Mr. Gawthrop then added Councillor Cadman's credentials as a past member of the Vancouver Municipal Regional Union - the precursor of Canadian Union of Public Employees Local 15 - also makes him an ideal speaker for the convention, which gets underway this evening.
As many of our astute readers already know, former Sierra Club of Canada executive director Elizabeth May is considering running to be leader of the federal Green Party. And fellow Ottawa resident David Chernushenko, an environmental sports consultant, has already declared his candidacy. But will there be a Lotuslander in the race? In an interview with your humble organ, the party's finance critic Ariel Lade, an economist, confirmed he's been approached about stepping up to the starting line. But the former federal and provincial election candidate said, "I don't think I'm interested. I don't think I'm going to say no just yet. But it wasn't the thing I was planning on doing. There'd have to be a lot more pressure put on me before I would be willing in the race." In fact, Mr. Lade joked, "I think the job sucks. I'd have to be really arm-twisted and forced into it." But, that being said, he added, "I'd love to have a (leadership) candidate from another region" other than the nation's capital.
Stephane Dion's federal Liberal leadership bid will soon be receiving supporting fire from a brigade of kiddie commandos in British Columbia. According to our operatives, next week will see the official launch of the BC Youth for Dion campaign - which is being co-chaired by former University of Victoria campus club president Lorne Phipps and Mia Taghizadeh, who was the women's representative on the Young Liberal's provincial executive. It is expected similar campaigns will be mobilized in other provinces.
Last week, we reported on the appointment of Ken Dobell, the premier's former deputy minister, as one of the Law Society of British Columbia's six lay benchers. Lay benchers, who are chosen by cabinet, are supposed to "bring a public viewpoint" to the work of society. And, over the years, that esteemed club has included a number of headlining names. For example, Canadian journalism icon Patrick Nagle, who passed away suddenly this January, was named to the society's board of directors in 2002. And famed broadcaster Jack Webster did an eight-year stint as a lay bencher. So one wonders, then, what these two late journalism greats would have thought about Mr. Dobell - who has been a staunch champion of "media fishing expenditions" and the province's freedom of information laws - carrying the same torch they once held at the society?
Your humble organ has reported at-length on the toing-and-froings of former international contractor of mystery (Public Eye passim) Lesley du Toit, the new deputy minister of children and family development. But what are her thoughts on the present state of British Columbia's child protection system - particularly its treatment of aboriginal peoples? Well, Ms. du Toit isn't speaking with the press. But she has been talking with others about those thoughts. In an interview on Public Eye Radio this past Sunday, British Columbia Assembly of First Nations regional chief Shawn Atleo said "In her opening comments to us at a public forum this last Friday she talked about very strong issues like racism inherent in the system. She talked about a system that was broken...But, most importantly, the deputy minister shares an interest with the First Nations peoples and aboriginal communities for us to be full partners in designing or redesigning a child welfare system...one that respects and reflects our people and is also based on recognition of our title and rights - which equally come with a responsibility to contribute."
Yesterday, Premier Gordon Campbell told reporters "there's a good opportunity" for the provincial government to pass legislation this spring establishing an independent child and youth representative. But drafting that bill might take some time. And that has some Rockpile denziens discussing the possibility the present legislative session could be extended by two weeks to accomodate that process. But senior operatives on both side of the house assure us that, at this moment in time, such discussions are "purely speculative."
Earlier, we reported former Sierra Club of Canada executive director Elizabeth May has been soliciting senior Greens for their support as part of her bid to become leader of the federal Greens. But she didn't seem nearly as an interested in the world of politics back in December. In an interview with The Ottawa Citizen's Kate Jaimet, Ms. May was quoted as saying she's come close to running for Parliament "a couple of times and the main reason I haven't done it has always been concern for my daughter. In the last election, I was asked by the NDP and the Liberals and I was thinking it over, but the election would be right during the time she was doing final exams. If I was going to run, I was thinking about (running in) Nova Scotia. Leaving here as a single mother, when my daughter is doing her final exams in Grade 8, isn't something I'm going to do."
"If I was a man, and I was married, and there was a wife to take care of the kids and the house, I probably would have run by now. I think the time that I came closest was right after John Ralston Saul had written one of his great, intellectually rigorous pieces about how NGOs are never going to change the world because we stay outside of the partisan political system."
"It's not like I don't have the option, and I do think about it, but when it comes down to it, what it would mean for my own life: I don't have savings, I work for a very low income, and I'm a single mom of a daughter. To take a chance, to quit my job, to run for politics, if you win, it's going to be even harder to be a single mom, and do a good job at being a mom. And on the other hand if you lose...(there's) the potential to be both unemployed and broke, and condemned forever to the label of partisan, to any party."
Earlier this month, The Canadian Press's Dennis Bueckert reported Elizabeth May "one of the country's best-known environmentalist, is pondering a run for leadership of the floundering Green Party of Canada." And, according to our operatives, Ms. May has been doing a lot more than just thinking about her candidacy. It seems she's been making phone calls to the Green's senior members seeking their support for a leadership campaign that could be announced as early as next month. But it not all of those members are enthusiastic about the idea of the former Sierra Club of Canada executive director heaing their party.
Among the reasons: back in 2004, her environmental group released an analysis of federal party environmental platforms that gave the New Democrats an A+ and the Greens an A. At the time, Mr. Bueckert paraphrased Ms. May as saying "The Green Party platform is admirable on philosophical principles but lacking in precision." And his report also included this quote from the would-be party leader: "They've got good policies, high ideals, there's nothing about them not to like. Their approach is, I guess in a word, naive. There's not a lot of nitty gritty."
Earlier, we exclusively reported on attempts by the B.C. Road Builders and Heavy Construction Industry Association to seed an Astroturf movement that could "sway public and political opinion in support of the government's transportation programs." And it looks like those attempts continue. In a letter sent to fellow travellers, association president Jack Davidson encourages them to "join our growing coalition" - attaching an application form which the road builders forgot to include in their first mailout. The following is a complete copy of that letter.
April 18, 2006
Dear Mr.
Earlier last month I wrote asking you to consider our new Livable BC Coalition. When a project is this important, I don't mind writing again to ask for your support.
British Columbia's future prosperity is tied to the growth of the three major Asia Pacific economies. China is our third largest trading partner and it's economy is booming. India's economy is the fastest growing economy in the world and Japan has now emerged from its' recent recession.
The growth in these economies translates into business opportunities and thousands of jobs for British Columbia. This growth will take place with or without our participation. Unless our pots and transportation infrastructure keeps pace and business throughout the province are able to move raw materials, finished goods and their people economically we will lose our share of these opportunities.
Traffic congestion is becoming intolerable. For a businessman to attend a meeting, where it once took minutes to drive across town, it now takes hours. What has happened to the quality of life for our employees who because of traffic congestion have less quality time with their families? And we all suffer from air pollution and high freight prices caused by transport trucks idling in stalled traffic.
If you are in support of keeping BC building and our transportation systems efficient and competitive, I encourage you to join our growing coalition. Please complete the enclosed fax reply form and we will add you to the Coalition database.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call me at 604-436-0220.
Sincerely,
Jack Davidson
President
(Logos: Construction Safety Network, Business Council of British Columbia, Western Canada Roadbuilders and Heavy Construction Association, Canadian Construction Association)
Earlier, we reported on the hiring of international contractor of mystery (Public Eye passim) Lesley du Toit as the new deputy minister of children and family development. But some bureaucrats are still scratching their heads as to how someone from South Africa gets named to one of the most senior and sensitive civil service postings in the province. Well, at least part of the answer has to do with Jim Anglin, the University of Victoria's vice-president of academic and student affairs and former director of the institution's school of child and youth care.
In an interview with your humble organ, Dr. Anglin said he became first became aquainted with Ms. du Toit over 15 years ago when they were both members of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization's International Federation of Educative Communities. That relationship continued when he was hired in 1995 as a consultant to the South African government's inter-ministerial committee on young people at risk - a position that involved him travelling to the country twice a year. And, coincidentally, that was the same committee Ms. du Toit's was responsible for managing.
As the manager of that committee, Dr. Anglin says Ms. du Toit visited British Columbia. And, during one of those visits, he "took her around to meet all the key people in B.C. because we were involved in all the same kinds of issues she was looking at." According to Dr. Anglin, those key people included the then deputy minister of children and families Bob Plecas and future children's commissioner Cynthia Morton. And "I think it was at that point that she impressed people with her knowledge and her ability" - eventually culminating in her appointment in 2001 to an international panel to advise children and family development. Since then, an information bulletin from the premier's office notes she has "served...in different consulting capacities in British Columbia."
It's going to take more than prayers to fix the ministry of children and family development. But it seems somehow appropriate that, last Thursday, Victoria's old Metropolitan United Church (now the Alix Goolden Performance Hall) played host to a scratch and sniff session between a couple hundred of the ministry's headquarters staff and their new boss, former international contractor of mystery (Public Eye passim) Lesley du Toit. As expected, Ms. du Toit spent much of that session discussing her past and the future of children and family development. But there was also the hint of a suggestion that those who don't want to be part of the reform process at the ministry might want to consider opportunities in other parts of government. Meanwhile, in related news, we're told Ms. du Toit will be attending her first ministry executive meeting on Wednesday.
Tonight, on Public Eye Radio, we'll be chatting with journalist Charles Campbell about a recent report he produced for the David Suzuki Foundation on the state of British Columbia's agricultural land reserve. Federal Tories Paul Holmes, Andrew McVie and Derek Rolstone join the program to give their take on the Harper administration's recent performance in office. Provincial Conservative leader Wilf Hanni will be on the line to discuss how his party plans on winning some seats in the next election. And we'll talk with British Columbia Assembly of First Nations regional chief Shawn Atleo about possible reforms to the province's correctional system. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel of pundits - Bob Russell, Bernard Schulmann and Brad Zubyk - who will discuss the week that was in provincial and federal politics. 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 or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.
Tonight, on Public Eye Radio, we'll be chatting with provincial New Democrat education critic John Horgan, Victoria school board chair Michael McEvoy and Vancouver school trustee Eleanor Gregory about the present round of labour negotiations with the British Columbia Teachers' Federation. Green Party shadow cabinet members Ariel Lade and Eric Walton will be discussing their position on the Canadian military deployment in Afghanistan. And former CKNW broadcaster David Berner is coming on the show to talk about Vancouver Mayor Sam Sullivan's controversial views on drug addiction. Also on the program: Powell River-Sunshine Coast MLA Nicholas Simons will be sharing with us his thoughts on former conflict of interest commissioner Ted Hughes's recent independent review of British Columbia's child protection system. And we'll talk with marine pollution expert Riki Ott about how your local government can act globally to save the environment. 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.
Members of the Campaign to De-Elect David Emerson may have some company when the show up to tomorrow to demonstrate at Vancouver Board of Trade luncheon. Lower Mainland regional Conservative organizer John Buckham is planning a counter-protest to "show (party) support" for the federal international trade minister, who is delivering a keynote address to the luncheon. This, according to an email distributed to Tory operatives this morning. The email also notes those who are planning on showing up should "feel free to wear any Conservative Party item you may have, t-shirts, ball caps, buttons and so on. In addition to this hand written signs would be a great addition to the day, not only do they show up well for those who are across the street wondering what is going on but they also provide a great opportunity to get our message of support into the media." Suggested sign slogans include "Emerson = Courage" and "Keep up the good work!" The following is a complete copy of his email.
LET'S SUPPORT MINISTER EMERSON!
Minister David Emerson is scheduled to be the keynote speaker at Vancouver Board of Trade function, the BC Economic Forum tomorrow Friday, April 21st.
The Campaign to de-Elect David Emerson is planning a protest outside the Hyatt to coincide with Minister Emerson's attendance.
Let's get out and show our support for David and the courageous stance he has taken! And let's show the de-Elect campaign that they are not the only ones who can put people on the streets!
For those who may not be able to attend the rally of support but still want to support David please refer to the attached PDF. This is the Vancouver Board of Trade ticket reservation form. I strongly encourage those who cannot attend the rally of support to attend the lunch time speech.
WHEN: Friday April 21st, please schedule to arrive by 11:00 - 11:30 am and please plan to attend for up to two hours (the de-elect Emerson Protesters are scheduled to attend for this amount of time)
WHERE: The Hyatt Regency, please assemble out front at the corner of Georgia and Burrard.
Should you plan on attending please feel free to wear any Conservative Party item you may have, t-shirts, ball caps, buttons and so on. In addition to this hand written signs would be a great addition to the day, not only do they show up well for those who are across the street wondering what is going on but they also provide a great opportunity to get our message of support into the media.
Some suggested signage:
I support David Emerson!
Emerson = Courage
Re-Elect Emerson!
Keep up the good work!
We support you!
United we stand!
If you are planning on attending please be respectful of those who may not share our political views.
Please be respectful of any police presence and respond to their wishes, after all they are only doing their jobs!
And please don't engage in any shouting matches with those who may opposite views than ours, it is always the case that words are thrown out in the heat of the moment only to be regretted later!
Please forward this message onto any supporters who may wish to come and support David or wish to hear him address the Economic Forum.
Should you have any question please feel free to contact me.
John Buckham
Lower Mainland Regional Organizer,
Conservative Party of Canada
Federal Conservative bacbencher Garth Turner has found another cause celebre in British Columbia. According to our operatives, Mr. Turner - who loudly criticized Vancouver-Kingsway MP David Emerson's defection to the Tories - has agreed to be the star attraction at a fundraiser for Fair Voting BC. That's the group campaigning for the use of a single-transferable vote system in the next provincial election. A date for that event hasn't yet been set. In January, former Reform leader Preston Manning attented a similar fundraiser for the organization.
It looks like Stan Hagen will have at least one eyeball trained on our good friends at Community Living British Columbia, the independent authority responsible for providing services to the developmentally disabled. Today, the public service agency announced the ministry of children and family development would be hiring a senior bureaucrat to "monitor, evaluate, and make recommendations to manage the accountabilities of CLBC to the Minister of MCFD." According to that job description, the successful candidate will be required to "identify emerging issues with provincial implications" at the authority, assess their "public impact or political ramifications and alert the necessary stakeholders" - among other duties. An internal competition for that director-level job is being held, with the closing date set for May 11. One wonders if the ministry already has someone in mind for the position?
Yesterday, David Schreck opined on Strategic Thoughts that "when the BC Legislature resumes sitting after a two week recess" on Monday "there will only be 16 sitting days remaining in the spring session, and rumours have it that there may not be a fall sitting, despite the 'Parliamentary Calendar.' Unless the Campbell administration comes up with some surprises in the next four weeks, the first full session after the May 2005 election might go down as one of the dullest on record." But, according to our Rockpile operatives, the Liberals don't have many bills left in the can. And what they do have will be likely rolled out next week, completing the Campbell administration's spring legislative package.
Due to an increasing number of inappropriate postings, we will now be moderating the comments section of Public Eye. That means some messages may not always be immediately be published, while others will appeared in an edited form. Our apologies for having to take this step. The intent isn't to stifle debate but rather keep a modicum of decorum on the site. This policy will continue for the foreseeable future.
On Monday, The Globe and Mail's Campbell Clark reported Bob Rae is "planning to launch his campaign for the Liberal leadership early next week." But who's going to be backing him in British Columbia? Well Rob Mingay's name has been running on the rumour mill. And, in an interview with Public Eye, Mr. Mingay, who was former federal New Democrat leader Ed Broadbent's press secretary and is now the sales and marketing vice-president for Rocky Mountain Production Services, confirmed he's lending his support to the ex-premier. Meanwhile, Pam McDonald, who headed up former Prime Minister Jean Chretien's British Columbia desk, hasn't returned calls from Public Eye despite an earlier promise to speak with us. But, if she did, we'd ask her whether she too is supporting Mr. Rae.
Loyal readers will remember our coverage of last year's Leader's Invitational Golf Tournament - which raised $168,972 for the provincial Liberals. And, like clockwork, the party is once again preparing to hit the links at the Golden Eagle Golf Club, which is owned by the Aquilinis. Hierarchs are encouraging cardholders to help out at June 26 event in return for a "souvenir t-shirt, plus complimentary lunch and dinner" as well as an opportunity to "meet new friends, meet representatives from many companies, our Leader and Premier of BC, Cabinet Ministers and MLAs." The following is a complete copy of that volunteer pitch.
Book June 26th on your calendar to spend the day at Eagle Ridge Golf Course with our Leader, Premier Gordon Campbell, Members of Cabinet, Caucus, business leaders and Volunteers.
The Leader's Invitational Golf Tournament
Monday, June 26, 2006
Golden Eagle Golf Club
Volunteering - The Spirit of Excellence
The 4th Annual Leader’s Invitational Golf Tournament will be held at Golden Eagle Golf Course, June 26, 2006. The Fraser Valley MLA's invite you to participate in this wonderful day - a day to meet new friends, meet representatives from many companies, our Leader and Premier of BC, Cabinet Ministers and MLAs...and have a wonderful day in the heart of the valley at Golden Eagle golf course.
Join us for the day! (or half day) Volunteers receive a souvenir t-shirt, plus complimentary lunch and dinner
We need over 150 Volunteers for the day. This is one of our biggest fundraisers of the year, and, one of the most memorable and fun events of the year!
Join us!
Please fax or e-mail the attached form to the contact information at the bottom. And, let the person who sent you this know also. Thank you!
A fundraiser for the BC Liberals - Thank you for your support
It looks like our favourite provincial Liberal field organizer has added another bullet to his resume. Your humble organ has confirmed earlier reports from one of our astute readers that Brian Bonney is now styled as the party's operations director - responsible for constituency development. Looks like all that campaigning on behalf of Coquitlam First has final paid off. Meanwhile, the rumour mill is running with reports matinee idol and Young Liberal president Dallas Henault will soon be working as an assistant to party executive director Kelly Reichert. But, in an interview with Public Eye, communications and member services director Chad "C.J." Pederson declined to confirm Messrs. Henault and Bonney's new postings saying, "It's operational information we deem internal."
Earlier, we reported Premier Gordon Campbell's security blanket (Public Eye passim) Ken Dobell had been appointed to the Law Society of British Columbia's board of directors. At the time, we noted Mr. Dobell has ample experience with the laws of the land - especially the legislation governing freedom of information requests. Back in 2003, the former civil service head disclosed he "now rarely writes notes of meetings and rapidly deletes most of his e-mails...to avoid having internal e-mails caught up in media fishing expeditions." But, when asked about Mr. Dobell's past deletion policy, law society public affairs manager Brad Daisley noted, "We've got very specific rules and policies governing retention of documents and information. And all benchers (are required to) follow those."
Earlier, we reported rumours the premier's international contractor of mystery (Public Eye passim), Lesley du Toit, had signed a four year contract to serve as the deputy minister of children and family development. And what's that we see, gracing the front page of the ministry's Website? Why, it's an information bulletin announcing Ms. du Toit has "committed to a long-term appointment in this position of at least four years." Funny old world eh?
Earlier this month, Community Living British Columbia announced it "was proud to learn, in early March, that four of its employees had been nominated for the 2005/06 Premier's Innovation & Excellence Awards in the category of Innovation" - including Rick Mowles, who has been the authority's chief executive officer since February 2005. According to the announcement, "the CLBC nominees were recognized for their work in the 'delivery of an integrated project involving 8 government entities that saw the uninterrupted transfer of responsibility for the delivery of services to individuals with development disabilities and their families from the Ministry of Children and Family Development to the new Crown agency." Of course, as our astute readers will know, Community Living British Columbia hasn't exactly accomplished that shift in a timely manner.
According to children and family development's July 2003 service plan, "the permanent transition of community living services for adults with developmental disabilities" to Community Living British Columbia was "anticipated for late 2003." And, given that the authority has been legal entity for less than a year, how can we know whether that transition has produced "substantial benefits to community" - one of the innovation category's judging criteria?
As we have already reported ad nauseum, international contractor of mystery (Public Eye passim) Lesley du Toit has been providing Gordon Campbell with "advice on transforming services for children and youth in British Columbia" for the past two months. And increasingly solid rumours are afoot that she'll be appointed deputy minister of children and family development tomorrow. But here's something to consider: if Ms. du Toit, a South African national, isn't applying for permanent resident status, wouldn't she need a work permit to be under contract with the government? And, as some of our astute readers may know, Human Resources and Skills Development Canada has the authority to deny permit applications if a "permanent resident could fill the job." But perhaps, like the premier, the federal government believes there's no one in the entire country who can fix our childcare system?
Guess who's joining the Law Society of British Columbia's governing body? Why it's none other than the Gordon Campbell's favourite security blanket Ken Dobell, who is presently working as a special advisor to the premier. Of course, few would question Mr. Dobell's qualifications for that posting. After all, as Premier Campbell's former deputy minister, he has ample experience with the laws of the land - especially the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. To wit, during a September 2003 conference celebrating the 10th anniversary of that legislation, Mr. Dobell told attendees that he "now rarely writes notes of meetings and rapidly deletes most of his e-mails...to avoid having internal e-mails caught up in media fishing expeditions" - this, according to report by The Times Colonist's Judith Lavoie. Subsequently, Sandy Santori, the then minister responsible for the freedom of information act, told Ms. Lavoie he would be talking to Mr. Dobell about his deletion policy noting, "The legislation is very clear that e-mails are documents of record and they should be treated accordingly...I will refresh his memory today."
Earlier, we speculated that the premier's international contractor of mystery (Public Eye passim) Lesley du Toit - who jets back into town today - would be appointed deputy minister of children and family development. And now, one of our astute readers reports that said appointment will be announced tomorrow, with Ms. du Toit having already signed a four year contract with the provincial government. Your humble organ has been unable to confirm that report. Although we have also heard conflicting theories that Ms. du Toit, executive director of South Africa's Child and Youth Care Agency for Development, may be hired as the transition manager responsible for setting up the office of the representative for children and youth - part of the recommendations included in former conflict of interest commissioner Ted Hughes's independent review of British Columbia's child protection system.
Tonight, on Public Eye Radio, we'll be chatting with Victoria Medical Society president Milton Baker about his thoughts on reforming the Canadian healthcare system. Green Party hierarchs Sharon Labchuck and Ariel Lade will be on the show to discuss the recent outbreak of environmentalism in the Liberals. And Dennis Perry, president of the Coalition to Save the Eagleridge Bluffs, is phoning in to give us the latest on his campaign against plans to uppgrade the Sea-to-Sky Highway. Also on the show: David Schreck from Strategic Thoughts will comment on coming changes to the ministry of children and family development. And our regular panel of rabblerousers - John Heaney, Bob Russell, Allan Warnke and Brad Zubyk - will debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. 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.
Public Eye has reported at length on race to fill the seven open seats on the Non-Partisan Association's board of directors. And, according to our operatives at the association's annual general meeting, Elyn Dobbs, Greg Elzinga and Jeff Melland have failed to cross the finish line. Instead, the candidates endorsed by Mayor Sam Sullivan's former campaign manager Colin Metcalfe - Joost Bakker, Cindy Chan Piper, Glenn Cho, Kilby Gibson, Allen Langdon, Mina Laudan and Douglas Leung - swept the polls. We leave it to our astute readers to discuss what this may mean (if anything) for the association's future.
Earlier, your humble organ reported some advocates have been gnashing their teeth about a decision to continue providing services for special needs children through Community Living British Columbia. But it seems not everyone is displeased with that decision. In an interview with your humble organ, the authority's communitions director Sally Greenwood said "We have certainly made a number of calls to the stakeholders this week and spoke directly with them. And, as well, we had a meeting of the children's transformation working group which consists of representatives from many of the service delivery groups and the major organizations throughout the province. And the information (about keeping special needs children services at the authority) was well-received."
And what about concerns that the decision goes against the Gove inquiry's recommendation "to bring all provincial child welfare responsibilities together into one provincial authority?" Responded Ms. Greenwood, "I suppose what we're trying to do here for the families and parents of children with special needs and disabilities is to ensure that they have access to service through one organization. And that's exactly what we're able to do."
Children and Family Development Minister Stan Hagen has been the source of much hot and bother amongst some community living advocates this week. The reason: on Monday, his ministry quietly announced Community Living British Columbia will continue providing services for all special needs children. Under an earlier memorandum of understanding, those services had been temporarily transferred to the authority. But they were supposed to be handed back to the ministry in July - something that now won't be happening. Letters of protest have been sent to Minister Hagen, arguing that the decision goes against the Gove inquiry's recommendation "to bring all provincial child welfare responsibilities together into one provincial authority" - rather than a "fragmented" approach relying on inter-ministerial cooperation. And there seems to be concern about whether Community Living British Columbia is capable of delivering those services on a long-term basis - which might explain why the independent authority will soon be launching a branding campaign to increase "respect for and confidence in CLBC."
Much ink has been spilled contemplating what's at stake this evening when Non-Partisan Association members go to the polls to elect seven board members. The latest opinion comes from Colin Metcalfe, who was Sam Sullivan's campaign manager during the recent civic election. In an email sent to association cardholders yesterday, Mr. Metcalfe writes "I want to encourage you to come out and join us (at the annual general meeting) to ensure that we elect those who support Sam and our NPA team." And who might those candidates be, you may wonder? Well, "after having reviewed their bios and checking with fellow supporters" Mr. Metcalfe has concluded the "following (candidates) would be the best to serve our association, our membership, and our elected representatives:" Joost Bakker, Cindy Chan Piper, Glenn Cho, Kilby Gibson, Allen Langdon, Mina Laudan and Douglas Leung. Absent from that list are Elyn Dobbs, Greg Elzinga and Jeff Melland. The following is a complete copy of Mr. Metcalfe's email.
From: Colin Metcalfe
To: Colin Metcalfe
Subject: ***Please join the Friends of Sam Sullivan and the NPA Team at tomorrow night's NPA AGM***
Date: Tue, 11 Apr 2006 23:17:04 -0700
Dear Friends of the NPA:
I am writing to update you on some relevant matters pertaining to tomorrow night's NPA Annual General Meeting. As some of you may know, several NPA Board positions are up for election and I want to encourage you to come out and join us to ensure that we elect those who support Sam and our NPA team.
I have been involved with the NPA as a volunteer, candidate, campaign manager and board member. I seen the positives and negatives of this association and I have learned that those whom we empower to manage the affairs of this association should have the best intentions of the NPA and our NPA family at heart. To that end I again ask you to take an evening out of your week and support your NPA colleagues.
On a more personal note, I have received many calls leading up to this AGM. Many people are asking me who I think would be good members to elect to the NPA Board. We have many excellent candidates. However, after having reviewed their bios and checking with fellow supporters I have concluded that in my mind the following would be the best to serve our association, our membership, and our elected representatives:
* Joost Bakker
* Cindy Chan Piper
* Glenn Cho
* Kilby Gibson
* Allen Langdon
* Mina Laudan
* Douglas Leung
I encourage you to attend tomorrow nights important meeting. Meet with the candidates and draw your own conclusions. At the very least, I hope this email motivates you to get involved during a non-election year. The management of our civic association deserves the best regardless of the election cycle.
Regards,
Colin Metcalfe
Earlier, we reported on Non-Partisan Association director Alex Tsakumis's accusation that former federal Liberal uber-operative Mark Marissen is presently orchestrating an attempt to takeover the civic party. In an interview with Public Eye, Mr. Marissen declined to comment on the specifics contained in Mr. Tsakumis's email except to say, "Here's the question: does he know what he's saying is inaccurate or does he believe it? Cause I'm not sure which is more disturbing." But Mr. Tsakumis seems to be standing by his accusations. "My response to Mr. Marissen is pretty clear," said the board member. "If he wasn't involved or any of his minions weren't involved (in the present race for seven seats on the association's board of directors) then why didn't he just outright deny it? That, in and of itself, tells me everything."
Earlier, we reported on Elyn Dobbs, Greg Elzinga and Jeff Melland's email pitch encouraging Non-Partisan Association members to support a package of bylaw amendments that they say will "improve democracy, accountability and transparency" within the civic party. The trio, who are running for seats on the association's board of directors, explains those improvements are needed "because for too long it has been characterized by infighting and petty personal politics." But it seems association director Alex Tsakumis has taken umbrage with their claims. In a message sent to his board colleagues, Mr. Tsakumis writes that they "will find the basis for the Mark Marissen induced push that we are currently witnessing" to take over the Non-Partisan Association in Ms. Dobbs and Messrs. Elzinga and Melland's email.
According to Mr. Tsakumis, Mr. Marissen's "ego can't handle how they blew it against Sam (Sullivan), so here they are with an effort the lay the groundwork to take over this Board by 2007. All to save a spot for Christy (Clark) in 2008." Mr. Marissen recently co-chaired the federal Liberal election campaign in British Columbia. His wife, Ms. Clark, lost her bid for the Non-Partisan Association's mayoral nomination to Mr. Sullivan. The following is an edited copy of Mr. Tsakumis's email.
***
-----Original Message-----
From: A.G. (Alex) Tsakumis
Sent: April 11, 2006 10:27 AM
To: Matthew Taylor; Jason Murray; Heather Chutter; Cameron St. John; A. G. (Alex) Tsakumis; Andrew Graham; Colin Metcalfe; Dale McClanaghan; David Choi; Douglas Leung; Joost Bakker; Michelle Custodio; Mr. Paul S. O. Barbeau; Peter Hyndman; Ydevl; 'Marko Dekovic'
Subject: Re: bylaw amendment
If any of you are interested in seeing real name calling and petty personal attacks, ask Cameron for a copy of the email sent out to our members (how did they get the list???) From Greg Elzinga, Elyn Dobbs and Jeff Melland. In it you will find the basis for the Mark Marissen induced push that we are currently witnessing.
Recently, Mr. Marissen, a very close personal friend of our Mr. St. John, forcefully took over the Vancouver Kingsway Liberal Riding Association with the same tactics exhibited by Elzinga, Melland and Dobbs. The threw out perfectly good Directors in favour of partisans who will do only their bidding and did it all the while...pretending that it was for the greater good. Of course Marissen's wife, Christy Clark lives in that riding, so they couln't pass the opportunity to save a spot for her just in case.
Same story here. Mr. Marissen's ego can't handle how they blew it against Sam, so here they are with an effort the lay the groundwork to take over this Board by 2007. All to save a spot for Christy in 2008.
They destroyed the federal Liberal party and now they want to destroy the NPA.
Should we let them?
A.G. (Alex) Tsakumis
Last Friday, Non-Partisan Association councillors voted to axe the Vancouver's child and youth advocate Sheila Davidson - just hours before former conflict of interest commissioner Ted Hughes released his independent report recommending dramatic improvements to the province's child protection system. And it seems the city was quick to give Ms. Davidson the bum's rush. In an interview with your humble organ, the former advocate said that a representative from the city's human resources visited her this morning at around 10:30 and "gave me a letter, signed by the city manager, that indicated that, as of April 7, my position was finished and I was given two weeks pay in lieu of notice. And I was told by the HR representative that I was to the collect my personal effects...And I said, 'I have lots of files because I brought lots of information with me.' And she said, 'You can make an appointment to collect those.'"
When asked what she thought of council's decision to close her office on the same day the Hughes report was made public, Ms. Davidson said "I think it's really incongrous. And it's really unfortunate. Because the Hughes report clearly indicates the importance of the independent voice within government. And the city of Vancouver had that voice. And I think it's sad. And I'm not being personal. But it really saddens me. And I find it disheartening. Because there was amazing work being done (in my office)...The mayor says we do services, we don't do advocacy. But, I think that the advocacy voice, brings another perspective" to government.
Let us, for a moment, fondly recall last year's MLA pay raise fiasco, wherein members from both sides of the house joined together in the spirit of cooperation to give themselves a 15 percent salary hike. At the time of that fiasco, the Canadian Press's Terri Theodore paraphrased Premier Gordon Campbell as saying "MLAs had worked on the wage increase since last summer." And, according to recently released (and long-awaited) legislative assembly management committee minutes "pay, benefits, allowances and parliamentary and constitutency office expenses" for elected officials were among the first topics discussed by the all-party group, which met 11 times between September 19 and November 17.
The raises were approved by the committee on November 2 - although most MLAs didn't find out about them until they were just about to be introduced in the legislature, 15 days later. The minutes also show committee members (who continued talking about those increases right up until the last minute) believed it was important "that these matters be decided upon in a public forum" rather than being considered "solely by the Legislative Assembly Management Committee." But, as our astute readers may remembers, that consideration lasted less than two hours, with MLAs rushing the (ultimately doomed) pay package through the house. The following is a complete copy of some of those minutes.
***
DRAFT MINUTES
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
Monday, September 19, 2005
4:00 p.m.
Hemlock Room
Parliament Buildings
Victoria, British Columbia
Members Present: Hon. B. Barisoff, MLA, Chair; Hon. M. de Jong, MLA; Mr. Gordon Hogg, MLA; Mr. R. Hawes, MLA; Ms. J. Kwan, MLA; Mr. M. Farnworth, MLA
1. The Committee approved its agenda for today's meeting.
2. The Committee considered the salary for the Assistant Deputy Speaker.
3. Resolved, that the salary for the Assistant Deputy Speaker be equivalent to the salary paid to the Deputy Speaker.
4. The Committee requested the Speaker to arrange for the Parliamentary Dining Room to open at 8:00 a.m. every day the House sits.
5. The Committee considered its role in relation to assisting Members of the Legislative Assembly in the discharge of their duties.
6. The Committee adjourned at 4:50 p.m. until Tuesday, October 4, 2005 at 4:00 p.m. in the Hemlock Room.
Hon. Bill Barisoff, MLA
Speaker and Chair
Craig James
Clerk of Committees and
Clerk Assistant
***
DRAFT MINUTES
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
Tuesday, October 4, 2005
4:00 p.m.
Hemlock Room
Parliament Buildings
Victoria, British Columbia
Members Present: Hon. B. Barisoff, MLA, Chair; Mr. Gordon Hogg, MLA; Mr. R. Hawes, MLA; Ms. J. Kwan, MLA; Mr. M. Farnworth, MLA.
Unavoidably absent: Hon. Mike de Jong, MLA
1. The Committee approved its agenda for today's meeting.
2. The Committee continued review of services to Members including pay, benefits, allowances and parliamentary and constituency office expenses.
3. The Committee considered guidelines for the television broadcasting of House proceedings and adjourned debate on the matter.
4. The Committee adjourned at 5:10 p.m. until Tuesday, October 18, 2005 at 4:00 p.m. in the Hemlock Room.
Hon. Bill Barisoff, MLA
Speaker and Chair
Craig James
Clerk of Committees and
Clerk Assistant
***
DRAFT MINUTES
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
Tuesday, November 1, 2005
4:00 p.m.
Speaker's Office
Parliament Buildings
Victoria, British Columbia
Members Present: Hon. B. Barisoff, MLA, Chair; Mr. Gordon Hogg, MLA; Mr. R. Hawes, MLA; Ms. J. Kwan, MLA; Mr. M. Farnworth, MLA.
Unavoidably absent: Hon. Mike de Jong, MLA
1. The Committee approved its agenda for today's meeting.
2. The Committee continued its review of services to Members of the Legislative Assembly including pay, benefits, allowances and parliamentary and constituency office expenses.
3. The Committee agreed unanimously, that any recommendations it makes related to remuneration for Members of the Legislative Assembly including pay, benefits, allowances and parliamentary and constituency office expenses be considered by the House and not solely by the Legislative Assembly Management Committee. This includes Special Allowances which is the prerogative of the Legislative Assembly Management Committee under the Legislative Assembly Management Committee Act, Allowances for constituency and parliamentary offices and long term disability.
4. The Committee was advised of a structural engineering study of the Parliament Buildings and the potential for a briefing on the matter later in the month of November.
5. The Committee adjourned at 5:40 p.m. to the call of the Chair.
Hon. Bill Barisoff, MLA
Speaker and Chair
Craig James
Clerk of Committees and
Clerk Assistant
***
DRAFT MINUTES
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
Tuesday, November 2, 2005
6:00 p.m.
Speaker's Office
Parliament Buildings
Victoria, British Columbia
Members Present: Hon. B. Barisoff, MLA, Chair; Hon. M. de Jong, MLA; Mr. Gordon Hogg, MLA; Mr. R. Hawes, MLA; Ms. J. Kwan, MLA; Mr. M. Farnworth, MLA.
1. The Committee approved its agenda for today's meeting.
2. The Committee continued its review of services to Members of the Legislative Assembly including pay, benefits, allowances and parliamentary and constituency office expenses.
3. Resolved, that the salary for Members of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia be equivalent to sixty percent of the basic salary that Members of Parliament in the Canadian House of Commons received and that this adjustment take effect on April 1, 2006 (unanimous)
4. Resolved, that in addition to the salary adjustment referred to in #3 above, the following Special Allowances will apply, effective April 1, 2006:
* Premier $59,740
* Ministers with portfolio $44,740
* Ministers of State $34,740
* Ministers without portfolio $34,740
* Parliamentary Secretaries $9,000
* Speaker $44,740
* Deputy Chair, Committee of the Whole $12,000
* Deputy Speaker $23,948
* Assistant Deputy Speaker $23,948
* Leader of the Official Opposition $44,740
* Leader of recognized political party other than the government or the Official Opposition $23,948
* Government Whip $23,948
* Deputy Government Whip $12,00
* Official Opposition Whip $23,948
* Official Opposition Deputy Whip $12,000
* Official Opposition House Leader $23,948
* Caucus Chair of the Government $23,948
* Caucus Chair of the Official Opposition $23,948
* Chair of Select Standing, Select or Special Committee $9,000
* Deputy Chair of Select Standing, Select or Special Committee $6,000
* Government Caucus Committee Chair $9,000 (up to two positions)
* Official Opposition Caucus Committee Chair $9,000 (up to two positions)
* Caucus Chair of a recognized political party other than the government or the Official Opposition $9,000
* Deputy House Leader of a recognized political party $9,000
* Party Whip of a recognized political party other than the government of the Official Opposition $9,000
* Deputy Caucus Chair of a recognized political party other than the government or the Official Opposition $9,000
(unanimous)
5. Resolved, that Members of the Legislatie Assembly of British Columbia be provided with a defined pension benefit plan for which there will be mandatory participation effective January 1, 2006 and that fits within the context of British Columbia's public sector pension plans. (unanimous)
6. Resolved, that the Constituency Allowances be increased by $35,000 per year per constituency, be non-targeted and effective November 2, 2005. (unanimous)
7. Resolved, that the Caucus Allowance be adjusted by $5,000 per constituency effective November 2, 2005 (unanimous)
8. Resolved, that Members be eligible to receive severance in the amount of one month of salary for every year of parliament service to a maximum amount of eighteen months based upon the best three years' average salary the Member received for Members not immediately eligible for pension regardless of whether they seek re-election. (unanimous)
9. Resolved, that a long term disability plan be established effective November 2, 2005 and modelled upon the plan available to British Columbia public servants. (unanimous)
10. Resolved, that the changes referred to in these Minutes be presented to the Legislative Assembly for its consideration. (unanimous)
11. The Committee adjourned at 6:50 p.m. to the call of the Chair.
Hon. Bill Barisoff, MLA
Speaker and Chair
Craig James
Clerk of Committees and
Clerk Assistant
***
DRAFT MINUTES
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
Thursday, November 17, 2005
11:00 p.m.
Speaker's Office
Parliament Buildings
Victoria, British Columbia
Members Present: Hon. B. Barisoff, MLA, Chair; Hon. M. de Jong, MLA; Mr. Gordon Hogg, MLA; Mr. R. Hawes, MLA; Ms. J. Kwan, MLA; Mr. M. Farnworth, MLA.
1. The Committee approved its agenda for today's meeting.
2. The Committee continued its review of services to Members of the Legislative Assembly including pay, benefits, allowances and parliamentary and constituency office expenses.
3. The Legislative Assembly Management Committee was advised that the House would consider recommendations made by the Committee in relation to Members' pay, benefits, allowances and parliamentary and constituency office expenses this afternoon following Question Period and that the Government House Leader would introduce a Bill implementing the recommendations, in the manner consistent with the Committee's view that these matters be decided upon in a public forum.
4. The Committee adjourned at 11:50 a.m. to the call of the Chair.
Hon. Bill Barisoff, MLA
Speaker and Chair
Craig James
Clerk of Committees and
Clerk Assistant
An earthquake measuring 7.2 on the Richter scale has hit the offices of the government's provincial emergency program. According to our operatives, the epicentre of the quake was none other than the program's executive director Bob Bugslag, who will no longer be working for government - effective immediately. An email notification about that personnel change was distributed late yesterday. And program staff were personally informed this morning by deputy solicitor general David Morhart. Mr. Bugslag, who is known for his aggressive management style, will be replaced on an acting basis by deputy emergency program director Cam Filmer. No word yet on the reason for Mr. Bugslag's departure.