October 2006 Archives

Former provincial Liberal backbencher Jeff Bray has abruptly resigned as the executive director of government caucus, Public Eye has exclusively learned. He is reportedly leaving the legislative precincts in order to seek other employment opportunties. Mr. Bray, who earned $68,500 as an MLA, made headlines when he was appointed caucus executive director a month after the 2005 election. At the time, the premier said that post would pay around $90,000.

The Campbell administration's continued tinkering with the ministry of children and family development has been the cause of considerable stress amongst the sector's service providers. And, as executive director of the Federation of Child and Family Services of British Columbia for the past four years, Craig Meredith has been responsible for managing much of that stress. But, yesterday, in an email sent to federation members, Mr. Meredith announced he would be retiring.

CKNW bills its newscast as "live, local and late-breaking." But, yesterday - when prominent political analyst Norman Spector called federal Liberal parliamentarian Belinda Stronach a "bitch" on-air - the station didn't run a news story about the gaffe until 3:30 in the afternoon. That's five hours after the comment was made on the Bill Good Show and four hours after Public Eye reported on the incident.

Who will be paying Partnerships British Columbia to conudct its new mandatory municipal capital project reviews? Is the province footing the bill or are municipalities picking up the tab? That's the question we posed to the government-company yesterday. In an email response, Partnerships British Columbia communications and government relations director Jennifer Davies wrote "the approach to budgeting and how the reviews will be paid for will be assessed on a project-by-project basis." And what will the fees for those reviews be? Well, it seems that too will be "assessed on a project-by-project basis" with the company's clients.

Earlier, we reported on Premier Gordon Campbell's controversial announcement that all new municipal capital projects costing more than $20 million would have to be reviewed by Partnerships British Columbia if they receiving provincial funding. As some of our astute readers may know, that government-owned company operates an internal consultancy, charging public sector clients for its services. Which begs the question: will municipalities be footing the bill for the premier's mandatory reviews or will the provincial government? Partnerships British Columbia has yet to respond to that question - which we posed to them yesterday afternoon. But, regardless, this development is extraordinary good news for the company.

Former prime minister Brian Mulroney's then chief of staff Norman Spector thinks federal Liberal parliamentarian Belinda Stronach is a "bitch." Speaking with CKNW's Bill Good this morning about Foreign Affairs Minister Peter MacKay's refusal to apologize for allegedly suggesting Ms. Stronach is a dog, Mr. Spector said, "I think she's a bitch. It's as simple as that. And I think that 90 percent of men would probably say she's a bitch for the way she's broken up (retired hockey player) Tie Domi's home and the way she dumped Peter MacKay. She is a bitch."

Last week, we reported the federal Conservatives would be hosting a reception at the British Columbia Liberals upcoming biennial convention in Penticton - featuring local parliamentarian Stockwell Day. But it seems the provincial party wants the welcome mat rolled back up. Last week, the Liberals asked and the Conservatives agreed to cancel the hospitality suite.

Last week, Premier Gordon Campbell announced all new municipal capital projects receiving provincial funding will have to be reviewed by Partnerships British Columbia if they cost more than $20 million. The reason: perhaps he doesn't think local governments are competent enough to determine whether they need the government-owned company's consultation services? After all, the premier is a big believer in the doctrine of subsidiarity, which states: "It is wrong for a superior body to hold to itself the right to make decisions for which an inferior is already well qualified enough to make for itself.'"

Tonight, on Public Eye Radio, freelance journalist Stanley Tromp discusses ivory tower secrecy. University of Western Ontario professor emeritus Denis Smith talks about his recent book Ignatieff's World: A Liberal Leader for the 21st Century?: And critic and anthologist Gary Geddes shares his thoughts about poetry and politics. Also on the show: Co-Intelligence Institute founder and co-director Tom Atlee chats with us about the wisdom of wisdom councils. And our rabble-rousing panel - Ariel Lade, Troy DeSouza, Bernard Schulmann and Allan Warnke - 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.

Have you ever suspected business and government are in bed together? Well, those looking for evidence of an ongoing affair would have went apoplectic yesterday when Premier Gordon Campbell announced all new municipal capital projects receiving provincial funding will have to be reviewed by Partnerships British Columbia if they cost more than $20 million. Speaking to Union of British Columbia Municipalities conventioneers, the premier explained the agency will be taking a "hard look at how that project might be built as a public-private partnership." As has already been noted by freelance columnist Paul Willocks, "some municipalities - especially on sensitive projects like water systems - are likely to balk at provincial interference." But not to worry. Because Partnerships British Columbia is teaching the private sector how to push those projects through - irrespective of those concerns.

The federal Liberal leadership campaign trail has not been kind to Michael Ignatieff. The latest disappointment: today, the Canadian Press's Joan Bryden reports Susan Kadis, his former Toronto campaign co-chair, "has endorsed chief rival Bob Rae." But that's okay. Because, according to an email distributed by the Ignatieff campaign to supporters, "the press are saying" wonderful things about the Ivy Leaguer. For example, consider this quote: "A Michael Ignatieff government would be committed to helping Canada's aboriginal people by encouraging entrepreneurship, settling outstanding land claims and improving health care and housing...." But there just one little problem. There's seven words missing from the end of that sentence: "...the federal Liberal leadership candidate promised Monday." In other words, that's not what the press is saying about Mr. Ignatieff. That's what he's saying about himself. The following is a complete copy of that email.

Why did a provincial New Democrat caucus meeting on Wednesday that was scheduled to last an hour run for almost three? Could it be because MLAs were discussing caucus staff issues? Was there some talk about restructuring? Maybe the New Democrat's future strategic direction came up for debate - an issue that was reportedly raised at a party community conference last weekend by Yale-Lilooet legislator Harry Lali? Are these answers posed in the form of a question? Inquiring minds want to know!

Back in August, the Telecommunications Workers Union released a bulletin notifying members that "several weeks ago numerous TWU Delegates brought forth and laid charges against President Bruce Bell. Following the process as set out in the TWU Constitution a Trial Board was then struck, and a hearing was held. After deliberations the Trial Board rendered their decision Sunday August 6th 2006 and as a result effective immediately Mr. Bruce Bell has been removed from the office of President." That removal was prompted by dissatisfaction with the collective agreement the telecommunications workers signed with Telus Corp. last year. - an agreement endorsed by Mr. Bell.

Last Thursday, Port Coquitlam's city council was scheduled to discuss a several issues of some import - including the cost of the Coast Meridian Overpass. But, according to The Tri-City News's Lara Gerrits, councillor Greg Moore was "absent from the council meeting." Which begs the question, where was he? The answer: in an interview with Public Eye, Mr. Moore confirmed he instead attended the provincial Liberal's Winning the Tri-Cities fundraising dinner at the Executive Plaza Hotel. When asked why he skipped council, the former Port Coquitlam-Burke Mountain election candidate explained he "had contributed to it via email prior to the meeting - providing my comments, thoughts and questions." And was this a case of putting party business ahead of civic business? "I wouldn't judge it that way. Your always trying to juggle your schedule and do the best you can," responded Mr. Moore. Tickets to the fundraiser were $225.

Back in July, the provincial government announced it had "launched a major initiative focusing on the future of post-secondary education" called Campus 2020. Former attorney general Geoff Plant was named special advisor to the initiative's leadership team. But there's at least one other old friend working on that Ivy League exercise. Inland Strategies Communications Management Inc. co-owner Laurie Best has been hired as the executive director of Campus 2020. Ms. Best, as our astute readers may recall, made headlines when The Times Colonist's Les Leyne reported in May 2003 that a contract awarded to her company by the health ministry included "her fee plus 20 per cent for expenses, which involve routine commuting between Kamloops and Victoria." But, in an interview with Public Eye, advanced education communications director Paul Wooley said Ms. Best would "be picking up those (commuting) expenditures" in her new civil service post.

Your humble organ has reported at length on federal Liberal leadership candidate Michael Ignatieff's attempt to "negate most of chief rival Bob Rae's delegate support in British Columbia." The success of said attempt will be determined by the party's permanent appeals committee. And when will that determination be made, you way wonder? Well, we're told the committee has called a conference call meeting for November 1.

Last month, The Georgia Straight's Charlie Smith reported University of British Columbia associate pyschiatry professor Kerry Jang was planning on seeking the federal New Democrat nomination in Vancouver-Kingsway. But, in an interview with Public Eye, Prof. Jang said he's since put the kibosh on those plans. "I have a huge amount of responsibilities at UBC that I really couldn't neglected," he explained. "I run the second year medical program. And, as you know, the med school has expanded quite a bit. And I thought that, being the responsible guy I am, that I would stay there because I was one of the people involved in the expansion from the start. So I've decided to stay there and see the expansion through for the next couple years."

Yesterday, British Columbia's chief and youth officer distributed an open letter asking for a "complete and public retraction" from provincial New Democrat MLA Maurine Karagianis. At issue: a suggestion by the children and family development critic that Jane Morley gave the public "exactly what the government told her to" in a report recently released by her office. In her letter, Ms. Morley writes that suggestion constitutes "an attack on my integrity that is completely unacceptable and unfounded." But this isn't the first time Ms. Morley has moved to protect her reptuation and that of the office she holds.

Earlier, we reported on the Liquor Stores Income Fund's plans to "build on its market position (in British Columbia) by "by adding new stores through acquisitions and new store developments." And it looks like the income fund - which made former finance minister Gary Collins a trustee - has more than enough money to execute that plan. On October 2, the fund announced it had raised $35.7 million through the sale of trust units to "repay current indebtedness, to fund acquisitions and new store development, and for general corporate purposes."

Earlier, we noted the Liquor Stores Income Fund made former provincial finance minister Gary Collins a trustee and director of Liquor Stores GP Inc. last month. But he's not the only political personality with that group of companies. Former Alberta treasurer Jim Dinning - who is presently running to succeed Ralph Kelin as the leader of the Progressive Conservatives in that province - just so happens to be the income fund's chair and a fellow Liquor Stores GP board member. And what do Messrs. Collins and Dinning have in common - other than their background in elected politics? The answer: Paul Taylor - who served as Mr. Dininng's executive assistant and Mr. Collins's deputy minister. Small world, eh? Mr. Taylor left British Columbia's finance ministry in 2004 to become the president and chief executive officer of the Insurance Corp. of British Columbia.

Gary Collins has joined a company that could be profitting from decisions made by the Campbell administration when he was finance minister. Last month, the Liquor Stores Income Fund announced it had made Mr. Collins a trustee and a director of Liquor Stores GP Inc. The fund makes its money in the retail booze business via its 72.3 percent interest in Liquor Stores LP - the largest liquour store owner in Wild Rose Country. But it may soon be looking westward for more moneymaking prospects. According to a circular released back in April, the fund management "believes that British Columbia offers significant opportunities for expansion and intends to build on its market position" - which includes three outlets in the Lower Mainland and two elsewhere in the province - "by adding new stores through acquisitions and new store developments."

The provincial Liberals may have bought labour peace with the public sector unions. But that hasn't stopped party members are bringing forward a number of provocative resolutions at their upcoming convention aimed at reducing the power of labour movement leaders. This, according to a delegate package obtained by Public Eye. For example, Coquitlam-Maillardville and Victoria-Beacon Hill Liberals are calling on the party to "support a prohibition of unions using the mandatory union dues of their members for any purpose other than collective bargaining or strike pay without the annual written consent of each member" - an attempt to hamstringing unions that want to make political donations.

It seems politicians aren't the only ones at-risk of being captured by special interest groups. Public Eye has learned Earnscliffe Strategy Group Inc. senior consultant Byng Giraud - who has been with the government relations firm's Victoria office since June 2005 - has been kidnapped by one his clients. The Mining Association of British Columbia has hired Mr. Giraud as its new senior policy and communications director, responsible for clearing "the pathways essential to the industry's future growth and development."

Last week, Bob Rae's British Columbia campaign director struck back against allegations "fraudulent Forms" assisted the federal Liberal leadership candidate in securing 78 delegate spots. In an email sent to supporters, Greg Wilson wrote those allegations - which were included in an email sent to party officials by the Ignatieff team - are simply part of "media campaign camoflauged as an appeal." That appeal asks the party take those spots away from the former Ontario premier. But, in an interview with Public Eye, Mr. Ignatieff''s Western Canada campaign manager David Hurford took issue with Mr. Wilson's statement.

Last week, suspended federal Conservative backbencher Garth Turner told CTV's Canada AM "I'm not ruling out anything right now" when asked about the possibility of joining the Greens. But, according to research by Environics Analysis, that party might be the best home for a maverick like Mr. Turner. At the Green's leadership convention, Public Eye has learned company president Jan Kestle gave a presentation showing "rejection of authority" is the number one value associated with those who are most likely to vote for the Greens. Mr. Turner was ousted from the Tory caucus over allegations he broke its confidentiality.

The "new tone in the legislature" may have received plaudits from some pundits. But others are concerned provincial New Democrat leader Carole James's cooperative approach has hampered the Opposition in its efforts to hold the Campbell administration to account. And, on Saturday, Yale-Lilooet MLA Harry Lali seemed to give voice to some of those concerns. Speaking at the New Democrat's Interior-Okanagan community conference in Merritt, Mr. Lali delivered a barnstorming speech in which he told attendees the party "ought to be out there pushing back much harder against the Liberals." This, according a report from one audience member. The member also paraphrased Mr. Lali as saying, "New Democrats are not Liberals or Conservatives. And they should quit pretending to be. New Democrats are social democrats. And it's about bloody time we started acting like it." The three-day conference featured 14 MLAs and attracted around 175 supporters.

Since we're on the subject of Lee Doney, we might as well update you on the value of the latest business arrangements between the provincial government and his company RLD Strategies Inc. According to public accounts, the government transferred $279,093 to RLD in fiscal 2005/06. That's up $167,624 from fiscal 2004/05. In his last full fiscal year as a deputy minister, Mr. Doney - who retired in April 2004 - earned $204,627 and registered $49,682 in travel expenses.

It looks like former New Democrat premier Dan Miller isn't just a senior counsel for National Public Relations Inc. He's also doing government relations work for the firm on behalf of one of the Liberal's biggest bankrollers. According to the provincial government's lobbyist registry, Mr. Miller is now "facilitating" mining giant Teck Cominco Ltd.'s "interests." As our astute readers know, that company has donated $558,115 to the Liberals between 2001 and 2005. The registry also indicates he has arranged meeting with Opposition leader Carole James for pipeline firm Enbridge Inc. That company contributed $29,645 to the Liberals over the same period. Meanwhile, Mr. Miller - who is perhaps best known for his stint as British Columbia's minister of energy and mines - continues to serve on the Campbell administration's British Columbia Competition Council.

Tonight, on Public Eye Radio, University of Victoria political science professor Denis Pilon weighs in on government backbencher Garth Turner's explusion from the federal Conservative caucus. University of Michigan natural resources and environment professor Ted Parson talks about the technological solutions to climate change. Association for Responsible Shellfish Farming director Denise Reinhardt discusses British Columbia's other aquaculture problem. And municipal Green elected officials Sonya Chandler, Grant Fraser, Andy Shadrack and Jane Sterk talk to us about their shared agenda at next week's Union of British Columbia Municipalities annual general meeting. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Troy DeSouza, John Heaney, Bob Russell and Allan Warnke - 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.

Charity thy name must be New Democrat! Over the summer, the provincial party's health critic Adrian Dix called on the Campbell administration "to increase the $2-per-hour rate for on-call paramedics in remote areas and pay their training costs so large areas of the province don't have to worry about staffing shortages." This, according to a report from The Canadian Press's Scott Sutherland. And, today, Mr. Dix put out a news release noting "more than a dozen interior communities have had vacant paramedic positions for as long as four years." All of which must have pleased the Ambulance Paramedics of British Columbia - the union representing those workers. But that union hasn't exactly been coozy with the New Democrats. According to Elections British Columbia, the paramedics made just one donation to the party between 2002 and 2005 worth $1,000. By comparison, over the same time period, they contributed $4,469 to the Liberals - accounting for a whopping 32 percent of the party's labour movement funding. Money well spent?

Earlier, we reported retired senior bureaucrat Lee Doney is being directly awarded a contract - whose value "will not exceed $70,000" - to "provide leadership and strategic advice" related to the British Columbia Ambulance Service. Some may consider that a reasonable sum, given Mr. Doney's resume. But this is the same agency that presently pays on-call paramedics in remote areas $2 per hour. And that means, says provincial New Democrat health critic Adrian Dix, "Mr. Doney's contract - in the short period of time he'll have it - could pay for 35,000 hours of that service...So what's good enough for your average ambulance attendant is apparently not good enough for your average senior executive."

We're pleased to see the provincial government is continuing to keep our good friend Lee Doney active in his retirement. Today, the ministry of health quietly announced its intention to directly award a contract - whose value "will not exceed $70,000" - to Mr. Doney via his company RLD Strategies Inc. And what song is he going to be singing for that supper? Well, according to the notice of intent, Mr. Doney has been contracted to "provide leadership and strategic advice" related to "service delivery model" for the British Columbia Ambulance Service and Healthline Services British Columbia. And he will be acting as the executive officer of the emergency health services commission, which is responsible for both those operations. The following is a complete copy of that notice.

British Columbia's lieutenant governor may have forgotten to invite Natural Resources Minister Gary Lunn when Prince Edward and Sophie Rhys-Jones visited the Garden City. But he'll be on stage when former American president Bill Clinton makes an appearance next month at the Save-On Foods Memorial Centre, as part of a tour discussing Canadian-American relations. In fact, Mr. Lunn scheduled to introduce the Democratic patriarch at the November 10 event.

Last Friday, The Canadian Press's Joan Bryden reported federal Liberal leadership candidate Michael Ignatieff's campaign was "urging the party to negate most of chief rival Bob Rae's delegate support in British Columbia." The reason: in a letter sent to the party's permanent appeals committee, Ignatieff operations director Sachin Aggarwal alleged "fraudulent Forms" assisted the Rae campaign in securing 78 delegate spots. But, according to the former Ontario premier's British Columbia campaign director Greg Wilson, that letter is "riddled with factual errors and misstatements" and simply part of a "media campaign camoflauged as an appeal."

The federal Conservatives will be rolling out the welcome mat at the British Columbia Liberal's upcoming biennial convention. On November 3, the Tories will hosting an evening reception for the provincial party's members at the Penticton Lakeside Resort. Draws at the event will include federal Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General Stockwell Day. But the Conservatives will be competing with provincial Transportation Minister Kevin Falcon's popular drink-up in the same hotel.

EKOS Research Inc. was in the field last night with some provocative questions. One of our astute readers reports the polling company was measuring the level of support (on a scale of one to seven, with one being strongly disagree and seven being strong agree) for joint Canadian-American-Mexican initiatives - such as an economic union, a common currency and common border security, defense, energy, environmental and immigration strategies. Respondents were not asked which party they support. Although EKOS did ask about their ideological persuasion - with one being liberal and seven being conservative.

Provincial Liberals have never been shy about phoning talk shows or participating in online polls. So you'd think they wouldn't need much encouragement to speak up during the provincial government's conversation on health. Nevertheless, earlier this month, the party sent out an issue alert urging Liberals to get involved with the debate. And, at the party's upcoming biennial convention, 90 minutes has been set aside as part of the conversation process. The following is a complete copy of the aforementioned alert.

Ten minutes - that's how long witnesses are usually given to address a legislative committee. But it seems provincial New Democrat Robin Austin, chair of the special committee on sustainable aquaculture, thought leading environmental sceptic Patrick Moore, the founder of Greenspirit Strategies Ltd., needed a little more time to speak. Because, during the committee's stopover in Vancouver yesterday, Mr. Moore was allowed almost 90 minutes to talk about his aquaculture friendly views!

Did you know Premier Gordon Campbell has a Chinese community advisory committee? Not many do. Although, as reported earlier this month by The Vancouver Sun's Jeff Lee, the premier's office "issued a list to Chinese media identifying the members" - of which there are 17. So does that mean the premier also has an Indo-Canadian community advisory committee? Apparently, not. The government wasn't able to say, by publication time, why a similar council for that community doesn't exist. But the Campbell administration does have several structures under the ministry of economic development representing Indo-Canadian interests.

Earlier, we reported provincial Liberal executive director Kelly Reichert is also president of Strategic Outlook Inc., a company belonging to the American Association of Political Consultants. But those hoping to contract out Mr. Reichert's political services will be disappointed. In an interview with Public Eye, he explained, "The Strategic Outlook company is more focused on technology. So Hoong and I actually formed that company in 2001. And we did it because we were working on some software that we were hoping to start to market to the U.S."

Provincial Liberal executive director Kelly Reichert isn't the only one at party headquarters with his own company. Hoong Neoh, the party's information director, is president Neoh and Associates Inc. And, earlier this year telecommunications firm Nicer Canada Corp. appointed Mr. Neoh to its board of directors. According to the news release announcing that appointment, he's "been working with small and medium sized businesses to help them with their technological needs" for the past 10 years. Mr. Neoh also occupies a similar post with Nippon TV.

Have you been impressed with Kelly Reichert's performance as the executive director of the provincial Liberals? Well, if no one else can help and if he returns your phone calls, perhaps you can hire him. Because Mr. Reichert isn't just a party apparatchik. According to information published in Campaigns & Elections magazine in 2004 and 2005, he's also president of Strategic Outlook Inc. - a company belonging to the American Association of Political Consultants membership roster. And the vice-president of that firm is none other than Liberal information director Hoong Neoh. Those wishing to visit Strategic Outlook can find them on the seventeenth floor of 198 Aquarius Mews - a resort residence in downtown Vancouver. Mr. Reichert hasn't yet returned a call seeking comment.

Can't get enough of progressive pundit and prognosticator Bill Tieleman in 24 hours and on CKNW? Well, insatiable fans are advised to visit Mr. Tieleman's new blog, where he will be posting his columns - as well as his thoughts on the day's political follies.

Last month, Park Place Seniors Living Ltd. took advantage of provisions in the Health and Social Services Delivery Improvement Act to contract out previously unionized positions at its Windsor Manor nursing home - terminating 70 care aides according to the British Columbia Government and Service Employees' Union. The Canadian Press's Jeremy Hainsworth reported those aides were offered but declined to reapply for those positions - where they would have made $18 per hour rather than $20. And who's was responsible for this privatization scheme, you may wonder? Why that would be Park Place's president and chief executive officer Al Jina who was recently appointed by the provincial government to the board of examiners in optometry. Funny old world, eh?

Over the summer, we reported Reputations Corp. public affairs director Allen Langdon was joining 2010 LegaciesNow - which has received $130 million from the provincial government to "develop sustainable legacies" in the areas of "sport and recreation, arts, literacy and volunteerism." As the non-profit society's Spirit of British Columbia community committees director, we're sure Mr. Langdon is doing many things to promote that goal - such as using his work email address to give away tickets to tonight's Non-Partisan Association annual dinner! Writes Mr. Langdon, "a limited number of tickets were just made available to me...The tickets have already been purchased, so please reply if you would like me to set aside a ticket for you." Mr. Langdon, the vice-president of the association, hasn't yet responded to a request for comment placed earlier this morning. The following is a complete copy of that email.

On Monday, the Cranbrook Daily Townsman's Gerry Warner reported Minister of State for Mining Bill Bennett "believes that the NDP has hired an American firm that specializes in political dirty tricks to advise the NDP on the health care debate." And what's the reason for that belief, you may wonder? Well, according The Province's Ian Bailey Minister Bennett "explained his allegations by suggesting the NDP had taken on a nasty tone. He said some New Democrats have been to Washington for seminars, 'where they were trying to teach people about how to practise politics in a more effective and negative way'" - news first reported on Public Eye back in May. So, using that logic, does that mean the provincial Liberals have also hired American firms specializing in dirty tricks? After all, in March 2005, columnist Bill Tieleman reported in the Georgia Straight that the premier's chief of staff Martyn Brown attended an American Association of Political Consultants conference in Washington, D.C. last January at the Liberal Party's expense. Just askin'!

Earlier, we reported Allan De Genova's family was spotted at Vision Vancouver's annual general meeting. But is that an indication the headlining parks board commissioner - who was suspended from the Non-Partisan Association caucus back in May - will be defecting to the centrist civic party? That's the question we posed to Mr. De Genova in an interview earlier today. The response: apparently, he didn't know his whole family would be attending the meeting. Said Mr. De Genova, "To see all the family there - that's kind of interesting. Cause there was a dynamic running around that room saying, 'Where's De Genova when the rest of the family is there?' But I will be coming out at the end of the month with a message after soul-searching after all these months."

Earlier, we reported provincial New Democrat legislators Adrian Dix, Gregor Robertson, Shane Simpson and Jenny Kwan made appearances at Vision Vancouver's annual general meeting. But they weren't the only elected officials invited. Councillor Tim Stevenson told the assembled Vision Vancouverties that federal Liberal parliamentarians Ujjal Dosanjh and Hedy Fry were also on the list - causing some ruffled feathers amongst more partisan audience members. But Braeden Caley, Richmond MP Raymond Chan's former constituency assistant, did manage to make the event. And so did Don Millar, president of The Element Agency.

More squibs from Vision Vancouver's annual general meeting: the crowd at the Chinese Cultural Centre eventually grew to between 200 and 300. Provincial New Democrat legislators Adrian Dix, Gregor Robertson, Shane Simpson and Jenny Kwan showed up, as did Senator Larry Campbell. Rushbrooke Communications principal Mike Witherly was also in attendance. And Coalition of Progressive Electors councillor David Cadman spoke to the meeting, discussing the need for unity. Although Vision Vancouverites supported a constitutional provision precluding cardholders from being members of another civic party. Meanwhile, we're hearing conflicting reports as to whether parks board commissioner Allan De Genova was officially at the shindig.

As many of our astute readers know, Vision Vancouver is holding its annual general meeting tonight at the Chinese Cultural Centre. Those on the scene tell us less around 75 supporters are in attendance - including former Non-Partisan Association director and campaign manager Greg Wilson. Quelle surprise! Also spotted was Allan De Genova's daughters Melissa and Emily, his son Justin and his wife Wendy. But the headlining parks commissioner himself had yet to make an appearance at publication time.

Last week, Burnaby-New Westminster Conservative constituency association director Robin Dhir boasted Citizenship and Immigration Minister Monte Solberg's recent reception would be "the least expensive Political event you will attend all year" - at $20 a plate. Or perhaps not. The pending Federal Accountability Act will ban individuals from donating more than $1,000 to a political party each year. That means, for example, if you've already contributed $500 to the Conservatives, you won't be attending very many party events if tickets remain priced in the hundreds. So prices will be falling to accomodate highrollers. And the purpose of those events will be changing from fundraising to party-building exercises.

Last Friday, Vision Vancouver released its report card on the Non-Partisan Association's first year in charge of city hall - giving Sam Sullivan's administration five Fs. Of course, astute readers will remember the association released a similar report card on Jim Green's government back in 2003 - awarding the Coalition of Progressive Electors four Fs, five Ds, two C-minuses and a B. And what did the coalition think of that grading stunt? Speaking with The Vancouver Courier's Mike Howell, future Vision councillor Raymond Louie said, "It's a bit of silliness on their part, but this is the role of the opposition and they'll generate as much publicity as they can. The report card that I'm most interested in is the election in 2005. That will be the truest indication of whether or not people think our performance has been sufficient." Fancy that!

The British Columbia Association of Social Workers has been a vocal advocate of strengthening the province's child protection system. So you would think the top bureaucrat at that ministry - Lesley du Toit - would have an interest in meeting with the association. But, to-date, that hasn't been the case, says its child welfare and family committee chair Paul Jenkinson. Speaking on Public Eye Radio, Mr. Jenkinson said the association has "asked for a meeting with her on two different occassions. And while we have certainly met with the minister and other deputy ministers, we have had no response back from Ms. du Toit."

Back in June, the Hospital Employees' Union and the Canadian Union of Public Employees released a report that found the process used to review three major public-private partnerships projects - including the Abbotsford Hospital and Cancer Centre - "does not provide assurances that there are going to be real cost savings for the public." But that report - which was prepared for the unions by Blair Mackay Mynett Valuations Inc. team member Ron Parks - hasn't stopped the province from talking up the hospital out-of-country as an example of "how pay-for-performance achieves project objectives of delivering the best value for taxpayer." That's one of the issues Walter Hiller, the president and chief project officer for the hospital, will be discussing as a speaker at The United States Infrastructure Investing Summit - being held at the Digital Sandbox Network Event Centre in New York. Partnership British Columbia corporate affairs vice-president Suromitra Sanatani was initially scheduled to make that presentation.

One of the more curious commitments included in last September's Speech from the Throne concerned the establishment of a Pacific Centre for Social Innovation. According to that speech, the centre focus on finding ways of improving voter participation, air and water quality and the quality of life for today's families. And who's going to be raising the tent for this three ring circus? Come on down, Partnerships British Columbia corporate affairs vice-president Suromitra Sanatani. Ms Sanatani has been seconded to the ministry of advanced education from September 25 to April 27, where she will be responsible from developing that centre. Her background includes being the Canadian Federation of Independent Business's British Columbia and Yukon vice-president and chair of the Coalition of British Columbia Businesses.

Tonight, on Public Eye Radio, Canadian Nuclear Association president Murray Elton makes his best argument why British Columbia should be looking at atomic power. Society for Quality Education past president Nancy Wagner discusses why Alberta's 15-year-olds are topping the worldwide education charts. And Surrey-Panorama Ridge MLA Jagrup Brar will be raising questions about the provincial government's job placement program. Also on the show: Childhood Obesity Foundation president Tom Warshawski shares his thoughts on why we should be downsizing childhood waistlines. And our rabble-rousing panel - John Heaney, Bob Russell, Allan Warnke and Brad Zubyk - 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.

Tonight, on Public Eye Radio, Freechild Project executive director Adam Fletcher and Canadian Policy Research Network assistant director Judi Varga-Toth talk about the campaign to lower the voting age both north and south of the border. Institute for World Affairs president Hrach Gregorian discusses why politicians have such a tough time discussing the Middle East. And pundits Chris Gainor and George Gibault debate whether Victoria should have a safe injection site.

The Duncan fire which claimed the lives of two children earlier this month took place at a restricted foster home, Public Eye has learned. In an interview, the executive director of Lalum utul Smun eem Child and Family Services also confirmed one of the children who died was in foster care at the time of the blaze. Lise Haddock explained her agency placed the child and two others in the home - the residence of their biological grandmother - in mid-July. Prior to that placement, a home study had been done to assess the grandmother's ability to care for the children, as well as the physical state of the home.

Children and family development deputy minister Lesley du Toit is restructuring the restructuring process in her ministry - something she acknowledges could cause "further confusion." And she's working to free herself up from the day-to-day operations of the ministry so she can focus on that process by building "relationship, trust, inspiring, giving hope and carrying the 'big picture'." This, according, to an email obtained exclusively by Public Eye.

Want to meet federal Citizenship and Immigration Minister Monte Solberg? Well, now's the time. Because tickets for his lastest reception are being sold at bargian basement prices. In an email sent to fellow travellers, Burnaby-New Westminster Conservative constituency association director Robin Dhir boasts "this is probably the least expensive Political event you will attend all year" - at $20 a plate. The reception is being held tomorrow at the Riverside Palace Banquet Halls in Richmond. The following is a complete copy of that invite.

The provincial government has a somewhat controversial track record when it comes to organizing retreats. Back in 1994, then social services minister Joy MacPhail got into a spot of trouble for spending the weekend (and an estimated $3,390) with 11 bureaucrats at the Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort and Conference Centre. And, nine years later, then children and family development minister Gordon Hogg took a tongue-lashing when his bureaucrats racked up a $4,000 bill at the same resort. So some suspicious minds may wonder about the wisdom of having a two-day leadership retreat for executives from that ministry at The Grand Okanagan Lakefront Resort and Conference Centre - which is scheduled to wrap-up tomorrow. But, evidently, the government was able to negotiate discount prices for meeting and hotel rooms at that resort. And, as the ministry moves toward regionalization, it was felt important to hold that get-together in Kelowna where headquarters staff can meet with their counterparts from the heartlands. So eyebrows are being advised to raise themselves elsewhere.

More email advice from children and family development minister Lesley du Toit: writing to her executive at the more reasonable hour of 6:48 in the evening, Ms. du Toit states "I have previously made this request and want to make it yet again...hopefully for the last time. Please do not e-mail me documents to see or approve. Send them through the required channels for me to read and approve." And what's the reason for this policy, you may wonder? "E-mail is not secure" - a demonstrable fact. And, evidently, Ms. du Toit has been working to find ways of managing her workload - with this being one of them. The following is a complete copy of that email.

Earlier, we reported on children and family development deputy minister Lesley du Toit late night musings - specifically her feather-ruffling suggestions concerning the preparation of briefing notes. But, commenting on Public Eye, freelance columnist Paul Willcocks applauded her proposal that ministry correspondence should be written "with more insight, compassion and a sense of individuality." Wrote Mr. Willcocks, "The idea that people who write to government should get a real response from a real person is smart and overdue. They care enough to have spent time trying to address a problem; the usual defensive, empty form letter destroys their confidence in government."

Yesterday, Alice Wong declined to discuss rumours she would be running for the federal Conservative nomination in Richmond. But, a few hours later, she confirmed those ambitions in a news release. According to that release, Ms. Wong "agreed to attempt her politcal come-back after attending the Women's Campaign College and extensive community consultations." But there those who wish she would stay off the public stage. When asked for comment about Ms. Wong's candidacy, former constituency association president Charlie Horton responded "It's not a good idea. She can't win" the riding.

Last week, The Vancouver Courier's Allen Garr broke the news the City of Vancouver had awarded Ken Dobell - along with former RAVCO Project Management Ltd. senior vice-president Don Fairbairn - a $300,000 contract "without it going to tender or without it going out for proposals from the public." Under that contract, Mr. Dobell and his partner will be responsible for proposing "a new model for addressing the problem of homelessness amongst residents battling addiction and/or mental health." This certainly makes Mr. Dobell, the premier's former chief of staff, a very busy boy.

The provincial government's public affairs bureau did some hole plugging exercises last week. Labour and citizens' services communications director Graham Currie replaces Tamara Little at energy, mines and petroleum resources. As some of our astute readers may know, Ms. Little is taking maternity leave. When she returns, she'll be going into labour (no pun intended). But, until that happens, children and family development communications manager Barb Wright will be doing seat warming duty as that ministry's top spin doctor.

South African import Lesley du Toit has earned a reputation for working long hours as the ministry of children and family development's deputy minister. And what decision is she making while burning the midnight oil? Glad to you asked. In an email sent out to the ministry's executive last month at 11:43 in the evening, Ms. du Toit complains "I am getting briefing notes intended for the minister or myself the night before it is due for a meeting."

Earlier, we reported Concerned Parents of British Columbia chairman Brian Roodnick would be campaigning for the federal Conservative nomination in Richmond against Howard Jampolsky. But it looks like they may soon have some company. The rumourmill is running with talk Alice Wong, who was the Conservative candidate in Richmond during the 2004 election, may aso be interested in the nomination. And what does she have to say about those rumours? Speaking with Public Eye, Ms. Wong said. "I'm not ready to make any announcement or any answer yet" - promising to get back to us with one later today. Ms. Wong was also the Canadian Alliance Vancouver-Kingsway 2000 election candidate.

Esquimalt councillor Jane Sterk says she's been "thinking about" running for the provincial Green leadership. In an interview with Public Eye, Ms. Sterk explained her decision to enter the race will partially depend on when the party holds its leadership convention. "If they called a convention in the spring, it won't really work with my timing," said the former provincial and federal Green candidate - who's committed to ensuring the capital regional district is "responsive to public input" concerning its sewage treatment plans. But she also said she would only step up to the startling line if "if I feel like I have something to offer that isn't being offered by the pool of candidates coming forward" - specifically "an understanding of the business community that in my view is absent from the Greens." Earlier, Public Eye reported former Vancouver school trustee Andrea Reimer and the party's external liason Silvaine Zimmerman weren't ruling out leadership bids. Green membership outreach coordinator Ben West also told The Georgia Straight's Matthew Burrows "People have definitely asked me (to run). I wouldn't say I'm not interested."

Do you live in Maple Ridge? Are you curious about Premier Bill Bennett? Well, not to worry. Because you'll never be lacking for a copy of Bob Plecas's recent biography of the Socred chieftain. According to the Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows Times, dark prince "Bud Smith was on hand at the Maple Ridge Library on Tuesday afternoon, donating 20 copies" of the book. Yes, you read that right. Twenty copies. The newspaper notes "the book donation was made possible by the local rotary clubs, represented by Jim Lohnes, past president of Haney Rotary, and Mary Robson, past president of the Meadowridge Rotary."

"The B.C. government spends more than twice as much in medical costs - as much as $1.8 billion annually - on people who are inactive, overweight and smoke than it does on those who exercise, don't smoke and aren't overweight." That was how The Vancouver Sun played provincial health officer Perry Kendall's recently released annual report on its front page last Thursday. But that wasn't the only food for thought in the report. Mr. Kendall is also calling on the government to take a precautionary approach when it comes to regulating frankenfoods.

Tonight, on Public Eye Radio, Green financier and former national campaign manager Wayne Crookes joins us to talk about who should succeed outgoing provincial party leader Adriane Carr. Tenants Rights Action Coalition executive director Martha Lewis discusses Housing Minister Rich Coleman's rent supplement strategy. And former Young Liberal national director Denise Brunsdon talks about the the latest from the Grit leadership race. Also on the show: Greenpeace Canada campaigner Eric Darier gives us the low down on the fight against genetically modified foods in British Columbia. And our rabble-rousing political panel - Bob Russell, Bernard Schulmann, Allan Warnke and Ben West - discusses 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.

Mason Loh has resigned as federal Liberal leadership candidate Bob Rae's British Columbia campaign chair, Public Eye has exclusively learned. In an interview, Harper Grey LLP partner Bryan Baynham - speaking on behalf of the Rae campaign - explained, "There were some issues related to filing of the delegate forms - that is the Form 6s. And Mr. Loh has decided to resign as chair of the campaign because some of those forms were inappropriately filled out because of the innocent mistake of some inexperienced volunteers in filling out the forms. As you can imagine, he very much regrets this occurred. He's continuing to give his complete support to Mr. Rae and his campaign. And he took this step because he wanted to ensure the integrity of the process and the integrity of the Bob Rae campaign." Mr. Baynam then added, "things happen when you have inexperienced volunteers collecting the information. And they were serious enough that he thought the party should be made aware of it. And the campaign did (make the party aware of it). And he's accepting full responsibility for what went wrong."

Earlier, we reported there seems to be some confusion about who will be financing Mason Loh's "celebration dinner" for federal Liberal leadership candidate Bob Rae's supporters. National spokesman Alexander Swann told Public Eye the dinner "isn't a campaign expense." But Mr. Loh, who is chairing the Rae campaign in British Columbia, disagreed - referring questions to senior operative Pam McDonald. Ms. McDonald, however, has yet to return a phone call placed earlier this morning.

Prime Minister Stephen Harper will be hop, skipping and jetting out to British Columbia next week. At least two major announcements are expected during the two-day visit, which will include a Tuesday evening outreach event with the Chinese community at the Floata Seafood Restaurant. The event is being hosted by the Community Care and Advancement Association and the United Chinese Community Enrichment Services Society. Prime Minister Harper is being accompanied on the visit by Environment Minister Rona Ambrose, Natural Resources Minister Gary Lunn Transportation, Infrastructure and Communities Minister Lawarence Cannon.

Concerned Parents of British Columbia chairman Brian Roodnick's federal Conservative nomination campaign Website may be up and running. But will he allowed to enter the race? After all, his site includes this disclosure: "please note that Brian requires a waiver of the 6 month membership rule from the Conservative Party to run as a candidate for nomination in Richmond." And what are the chances of the party waving that rule? Well, Paul Lalli's nomination bid in Fleetwood-Port Kells was apparently tanked because of a similar technicality. So one wonders whether the Conservatives will be equally draconian with Mr. Roodnick?

Federal Liberal leadership candidate Michael Ignatieff's organizers in British Columbia performed somewhere south of the campaign's national numbers during this past weekend's delegate selection meetings. But it seems those same organizers are hoping a recent ruling by the party's national returning officer will help change their West Coast fortunes. An email sent to supporters reminds them the Ignatieff campaign has been successful "in our appeal to extend the deadline for BC mail-in ballots to October 9th...This is a victory for grassroots Liberals - particularly in rural BC. If you have not returned your mail in ballot - please do and vote for Michael." Of course, as our astute readers may know, that deadline was extended to October 6 not "October 9th" - but whatever. Gerard Kennedy and a number of other leadership candidates are appealing that extension. The following is a complete copy of the aforementioned email.

This will be a disappointment for some: former provincial Green Okanagan-Westside candidate Angela Reid is ruling out a run to succeed outgoing party leader Adriane Carr. In an interview with Public Eye, Ms. Reid - the principal of smart growth business development firm Tigress Ventures - explained "I still have a lot to learn. I'm 28 years old." Although she did add, "I am interested in working as the deputy leader in the interim or after a new leader is elected." Ms. Reid is seen as one of the party's up-and-comers, with a resume that includes helping startup Morningstar Enterprises Inc. - one of the country's leading environmental and social marketing firms - and a stint as Miss Kelowna, Lady of the Lake.

Didn't get a chance to vote in this past weekend's delegate selection meetings? Well, don't worry cause you may still be able to cast a ballot. In a letter sent yesterday to the federal Liberal's permanent appeal committee, Kennedy campaign counsel Craig Munroe takes issue with a recent ruling by national returning officer which some have interpreted as extending the deadline for mail-in ballots from September 29 to October 6. That ruling - which the Kennedy campaign is appealing - was issued in response to complaints by 32 party members that they didn't get one of those ballots. But the returning officer's remedy to those complaints would also appear to open up the ballot box for the 2,100 Liberals who did receive a card but didn't use it. The following is a complete copy of that appeal, which is being supported by a number of other leadership campaigns.

National Public Relations Ltd. is having a housewarming party. On October 26, the lobbying and communications firm will be having an open house to celebrate the opening of their new office at One Bentall Centre. The open house will also celebrate the company's 30th anniversary. No word on who's bringing the beer and whether it's going to be a potlach. The following is a complete copy of that invite.

When federal Liberals took to the delegate selection polls this past weekend, their ballots listed eight leadership candidates. But Vancouver Grits could be excused for thinking an additional candidate had made it onto that list. Teams of organizers wearing red and white baseball caps featuring Mason Loh's name were spotted at numerous selecting meetings throughout the city. As our astute readers may know, Mr. Loh is Bob Rae's British Columbia campaign chair.

Last week, the British Columbia Treaty Commission's annual report noted the Lheidli T'enneh and the Tsawwassen First Nation "have concluded final treaty negotiations" with the British Columbia and federal governments. And the Maa-nulth First Nations "are seeking to conclude their agreement." As part of that process, those agreements will have to be approved by the provincial legislature. But that vote won't be unanimous. In an interview on Public Eye Radio, government backbencher Dennis MacKay confirmed he "won't be supporting the treaties. I have to say I won't be supporting the treaties. I don't think the treaties are the way to go. We've got to do something differently. We've had 150 some odd years of natives living on reserves that are described as rural ghettos. And I don't think we should perpetuate them by treaties."

Earlier, we reported former Focus on the Family Canada president Darrel Reid had been appointed Environment Minister Rona Ambrose's chief of staff. Despite that appointment, though, Mr. Reid doesn't have much of a reputation for environmental musings, being better-known as one of the country's most prominent social conservatives. But Focus on the Family Canada's big brothers south of the border are counted among the country's environmental skeptics.

There seems to be some confusion within the Rae team about who 's paying for British Columbia campaign chair Mason Loh's "celebration dinner." In an interview with Public Eye earlier today, Mr. Loh said the dinner would be financed by the campaign and is considered a campaign event. But federal Liberal leadership candidate Bob Rae's national spokesman Alexander Swann says the dinner isn't "a campaign expense" - although he didn't know "how the financing of it is being done." But "as far as the campaign expense rules goes" - which prohibit leadership campaigns from "facilitating in any manner whatsoever...the presence of any member of the Party at a delegate selection meeting" - Mr. Swann says "we have an undertaking from (Mr. Loh) that he will respect that."

Federal Liberal leadership candidate Bob Rae's British Columbia campaign chair Mason Loh's "celebration dinner" invitation may have cost his candidate at least one potential delegate. Yesterday, Public Eye exclusively reported those wanting "admission" to that dinner were instructed by Mr. Loh to "bring the envelope for this invitation to my volunteers at the polling station for stamping before you cast your vote." In an interview, the former Vancouver-Kingsway nomination candidate said that dinner won't violate party regulations forbidding candidates from incurring campaign expenses "for the purpose of facilitating in any manner whatsoever...the presence of any member of the Party at a delegate selection meeting.” But Manuel Pereda - a Rae delegate candidate who says he was recruited by Mr. Loh - told us this morning he has a different opinion.

Federal Liberal leadership candidate Bob Rae's British Columbia campaign chair promised federal Liberals supporting his candidate a “celebration dinner.” But, in an interview with Public Eye, Mason Loh said that dinner won't violate party regulations forbidding candidates from incurring campaign expenses "for the purpose of facilitating in any manner whatsoever...the presence of any member of the Party at a delegate selection meeting.”

Premier Gordon Campbell will be beating the bushes tonight in Surrey at the South Fraser Leader's Dinner. Fellow travellers have been invited to the Mirage Banquet Hall for an evening of festivities and fundraising at a cost of $200 per ticket and $1,500 for an eight-seat table. Cabinet ministers scheduled to be in attendance include Rich Coleman, John Van Dongen, Kevin Falcon, Olga Ilich, Mike de Jong and Wally Oppal.

As many of our astute readers know, Bob Rae and Gerard Kennedy managed to hold onto their first and second place positions in British Columbia yesterday - with Stephane Dion pushing Michael Ignatieff back to fourth. The following is a complete copy of the riding-by-riding results from Sunday's federal Liberal delegate selection meetings. Earlier, Public Eye also published exclusive detailed breakdowns for Friday and Saturday's meetings.

Tonight, on Public Eye Radio, North Island MLA Claire Trevena joins us to discuss the provincial New Democrat's plans to protest the Campbell administration's decision not to hold a fall legislative session. Rae and Kenndy campaign supporters Rob Mingay and Bruce Young tell us why their candidates did so well in British Columbia during this weekend's delegate selection meetings. Bulkley Valley-Stikine MLA Dennis Mackay shares his thoughts on treaty negotiations in British Columbia. And raw lumber exports will be on the table when Steelworkers representative Bob Matters phones in. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Bob Russell, Allan Warnke and Brad Zubyk - discusses 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 ministerial assistant David Basi stepped back into the political spotlight yesterday - albiet briefly. As our astute readers may remember, last year Mr. Basi - who has been dogged by scandal (and unproven criminal charges) since police raided the legislature in 2003 - showed up to vote at the Saanich-Gulf Islands nomination meeting. And our operatives say he also made an appearance at the riding's delegate selection meeting. No word on who he voted for or whether a red carpet and a ticker tape parade accompanied his appearance.

Pomp and circumstance are part of politics. But Surrey federal Liberals may have gotten a double dose when they went to vote yesterday at the Days Inn - site of the region's delegate selection meetings. The reason: that hotel had also been booked by Out in Surrey's Coronation III celebration. The group, founded back in 1997, has been instrumental in developing a "drag" community in the city and enhancing its role in fundraising and advocacy.

More numbers for Public Eye readers to crunch on: according to the federal Liberal's Website, leadership candidates Bob Rae and Gerard Kennedy are still in the lead in British Columbia, with Michael Ignatieff taking a small lead over Stephane Dion. The following is a complete copy of the riding-by-riding results from Saturday's delegate selection meetings.