January 2007 Archives

Mayor Sam Sullivan's community relations director has resigned "to take on a new opportunity in the private sector." In a message sent to friends and colleagues, Anna Lilly writes that opportunity "will enable me to have more balance in my life" - a laudable enterprise which continues to elude your humble organ. Ms. Lilly adds that, although her resignation may come as a surprise to some, "those who know me well will also understand how much I miss the work I previously did in the community as a volunteer, and my desire to continue my own personal development through continuing education and creative pursuits." The following is a complete copy of that message.

A nasty cold - which your humble organ has been battling for the past few weeks - has finally taken hold. As a result, posting will be somewhat sporadic or non-existent today while we recuperate.

Tributes for the late American president Gerald Ford were barely over when news broke that distinguished political scientist Seymour Martin Lipset passed away on December 31 at the age of 84. He was a giant among political scientists for over the past half-century. But his towering stature was also well-known outside academia. The reason is obvious. Mr. Lipset knew the political culture of Canada and the United States like no other analyst. He knew what made a democracy work. And there were important lessons to be drawn here from his publications.

Former provincial Liberal backbencher Sheila Orr present political activities have, for the most part, have been limited to patronage jobs. But the perennial rumour that Ms. Orr may be considering a run to be mayor of Victoria has bloomed. And what does she have to say about such talk? "It's not outside the realm of possibility," Ms. Orr replied in an interview with Public Eye, declining to provide further comment.

Earlier, we reported provincial New Democrat legislators would be holding their caucus officer elections next month. But who's in the race and who's out, you may wonder? Well, there's some talk environment critic Shane Simpson might run to be caucus chair - a post presently occupied by Jenny Kwan. And others suspect deputy caucus whip Diane Thorne won't be seeking re-election.

To say provincial New Democrat legislators are, without exception, satisified with their current leadership, would be...er...not entirely accurate. And MLAs may have an opportunity to act on some of their frustrations next month. The reason: caucus officer elections have been scheduled for February 9. As our astute readers may remember, last year's election saw maverick Yale-Lillooet legislator Harry Lali chosen as the caucus's deputy chair - which was seen by some as an indication of dissent. Mr. Lali has since become more outspoken in his belief that the New Democrats should be "pushing back much harder against the Liberals."

Community Living British Columbia says its residential options project will give developmentally disabled individuals a choice to move out of their group homes into more "person-centred and cost-effective" dwellings. But a leaked memo, which is being distributed widely, seems to be fanning suspicions that the project is more about cost-savings than people - suspicions the provincial government authority says simply aren't true.

What's this we hear about Gordon Ashworth being named the federal Liberal's national campaign director? Well, that's certainly the rumour circulating among party hacks west of the Rocky Mountains. And it would make a certain amount of sense. After all, Mr. Ashworth did that same job in 1980, 1993 and 1997. And he's known to be one of national campaign co-chair Mark Marissen's confidantes. But, then again, two plus two doesn't always equal four in politics.

As has been demonstrated in elections past, it's not unusual for New Democrats to be wooed to run for the Liberals. And who's the latest recipient of chocolates and flowers from the Grits, you may wonder? Why that would Steve McClurg, who was the New Democrat candidate in New Westminster-Coquitlam back in 2004. But, in an interview with Public Eye, Mr. McClurg said he's not sure whether he wants to pursue a relationship with the Liberals. "I have a lot of respect for (Grit leader) Stephane Dion," explained Mr. McClurg. "So I was kind of flattered when (some of members of the local Liberal riding association) asked me if I'd be interested. But I don't know for sure if I would or not. I'm leaning against it. But I'm still thinking about it." Mr. McClurg also clarified he has not been approached to run for the Conservatives, as has been rumoured in some quarters, nor would he considering running for the Tories.

Here's a bout of wishful thinking courtesy of the federal Liberals: it seems some party members are hearing rumours British Columbia Teachers' Federation president Jinny Sims is being wooed to run for the Grits against Fleetwood-Port Kells incumbent Conservative Nina Grewal. But, in an interview with Public Eye, Ms. Sims said "I think it's just a rumour. Well, I know it's just a rumour. Because I'm not talking to anybody about running in Fleetwood." So does that mean she's ruling out a run for the Liberals? "Well, right now I'm the president of the BCTF. And I'm really enjoying my job," Ms. Sims responded. Earlier, The Province's Ian Bailey speculated that, if Ms. Sims stepped down as president, it would "clear her to run for the NDP nomination in Newton-North Delta."

Last week, The Vancouver Sun's Vaughn Palmer reported provincial New Democrat leader Carole James "is still sorting out her party's position on the new generation of native treaties, three months after the first of them was made public." This, despite the fact New Democrat agriculture and lands critic Corky Evans has already expressed concern about the deal struck with the Tsawwassen First Nation - which will see up to 200 hectares removed from the agriculture land reserve. So you'd think that treaty would have been a topic of discussion at the recent Opposition caucus retreat in Courtenay. But you'd be wrong.

Back in December, we were the first to tell you the premier's special advisor Ken Dobell had registered to lobby the provincial government on behalf of the City of Vancouver. That curious arranagement became a source of controversy after The Province stuck the story - featuring a contested conflict of interest allegation from New Democrat leader Carole James - on its front page earlier this month. But it seems some of the tabloid's readers aren't as outraged by Mr. Dobell's lobbying activities as Ms. James.

Tonight, on Public Eye Radio, Vancouver city councillor Kim Capri talks about her proposal to make sure what's said in an in-camera meeting stays in an in-camera meeting. Former federal Conservative Vancouver Centre candidate Tony Fogarassy talks about the upcoming election battle in that riding. And Canadian Federation of Students British Columbia national executive representative Shamus Reid discusses upcoming protests against high tuition fees. Also on the show: community living activist Dawn Steele with the latest from the developmentally disabled community. And our rabble-rousing panel - Troy DeSouza, Bob Russell, Allan Warnke and Brad Zubyk - 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, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

There's no such thing as mandatory retirement in politics. So it will come as no surprise to our readers that some federal Liberals would like to see former environmental minister David Anderson make another run for the party in Victoria. But what does Mr. Anderson have to say about those moonlight desires? In an interview with Public Eye, he told us "There's been all sorts of talk - the same talk you've heard. But I've consistently said I'm happy doing what I am doing. And, also, having been fired by (then Prime Minister) Paul Martin for my strong views on the environment, I imagine nobody really wants me." So the chances of him running are "very unlikely. You never say never. In politics I learned that. But I think I'm getting pretty close to that."

Earlier, we reported Alliance of Beverage Licensees of B.C. past president Dave Crown name isn't on the lobbyist registry - even though has spoken with government about dropping alcohol prices for his members. The reason: unpaid lobbyists don't need to register. But that's not the only loophole in the Lobbyists Registration Act - which was passed as part of the Liberal's 2001 election promise to run the most open and accountable government in Canada. Government relations professionals who spend less than 20 percent of their work hours each month arm-twisting politicians and bureaucrats don't have to register either. That may soon change, though.

Remember the big tip private liquor stores got from the provincial government last year? Of course, you don't. Because, as we reported earlier this week, the Campbell administration ignored past practice by not telling the public about its decision to cut alcohol prices for those stores. And now it looks like the industry didn't even have to ask the Liberals for that gratuity, which will cost taxpayers around $20 million annually. According to the province's lobbyist registry not a single representative from the booze business has signed-up to talk to the Liberals about that price break.

Vision Vancouver's founders may have divorced the Coalition of Progressive Electors in December 2004. But that doesn't necessarily mean the two civic associations can't be friends. With that in mind, coalition executive members unanimously approved a motion on January 18 to request an informal meeting with their estranged counterparts. Vision Vancouver has yet to receive that letter.

Last month, we reported Sam Sullivan and his supporters attended a private viewing of the controversial documentary about his successful bid to become mayor of Vancouver. Yes, the one which Maclean's Magazine's Brian Johnson described as a "portrait of naked ambition." And now the Disability Foundation - which Mayor Sullivan established - is organizing attendance at another screening for the movie. In an email sent out earlier today, the foundation's program coordinator Betty Cheung asked recipients to "email me as soon as you can if you would like to get tickets for this movie." Asked why the advocacy group was promoting Citizen Sam, Ms. Cheung explained the mayor asked them, "if we would like to contact our board of directors and send them information" about attending that screening. The following is a complete copy of the email.

If you didn't already know British Columbia was "The Best Place on Earth," you soon will. In an email sent out last Thursday, acting corporate operations director Anita Pangborne-LaHue advised employment and income assistance staff that the provincial government's new BC mark - "which features a rising sun, mountains and water," as well as the "The Best Place on Earth" motto - "will now be used consistently across government." As a result, the ministry is working to update all "external documents" to accommodate that mark. And that surely will be a comfort to the 134,000 British Columbians presently receiving employment or income assistance. The following is a complete copy of that email.

Earlier this month, the Times Colonist's Paul Willcocks revealed the Campbell administration "quietly offered private liquor-store owners yet another price break before Christmas, cutting the prices they will have to pay for wine, beer and other alcohol by five per cent across the board." The Liquor Barn Income Fund, which owns seven stores in British Columbia, issued a news release promoting that price break - which will mean "$20 million less revenue for the government" according to Mr. Willcocks. That's a lot of money. So some might find it curious the Liberals didn't make an announcement about this costly policy change. After all, that's exactly what public safety and solicitor general did when booze prices were dropped in 2003 and 2005. Fancy that!

Remember Chris Gainor? Of course you do. When the New Democrats were in power, he served as one of their caucus communications directors. And now it seems Mr. Gainor (who did some temp work for the Opposition back in 2005) is going to doing that job again - at least for the next five months. He's been hired as the New Democrat's top spin doctor, taking over from Jim Rutkowski. Mr. Gainor, a former reporter with The Vancouver Sun, is also the author of two recent books: Canada in Space: The People & Stories Behind Canada's Role in the Exploration of Space and Arrows to the Moon.

Over the summer, we reported former provincial minister of state for immigration and multicultural services Patrick Wong was considering running for the federal Liberal nomination in Vancouver-Kingsway. That didn't happen. But now we hear some Tories want him to run for their party in Richmond. Mr. Wong, a managing partner at accounting firm Wong, Robinson & Co., hasn't yet returned a call placed last week asking for comment on those discussions. Howard Jampolsky and Alice Wong are presently seeking the Conservative nomination in that riding.

Since Liberal MP Wajid Khan's formal defection to the Conservative frontbenches, there's been much buzz about how the New Democrats now hold the balance of power. But that's only if you can conjure up a scenario where both the Liberals and the Bloc Quebecois together want to bring the government down - with Jack Layton and his caucus the only parliamentarians standing in their way. And since that scenario seems increasingly unlikely, the only winner here is Prime Minister Stephen Harper. The reason: because he now only needs one party, any party in the house, to support his government in order for it to survive. In other words, the Conservatives now have considerable more wriggle room to keep governing on an issue by issue basis.

Tonight, on Public Eye Radio, Equal Voice executive director Ann Wicks discusses federal Liberal leader Stephane Dion's commitment to ensure one-third of the candidates his party runs in the next election are women. Code Pink co-founder Medea Benjamin talks about her opposition to United States president George W. Bush's plan to increase the number of troops in Iraq. And local leading progressive councillors Dean Fortin and Vic Derman will tell us why it's important for municipal governments to tackle the global warming problem. Also on the show: former New Democrat deputy minister John Heaney tell us why he's opposed to a recent proposal to bring more secrecy to the province's council chambers. And our rabble-rousing panel - Troy DeSouza, Bob Russell, Bernard Schulmann and Allan Warnke - 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, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

The president of the union representing Vancouver municipal employees is seeking a written assurance that the mayor's new caucus coordinator "will not have access to our members' personal information, records and other confidential information pertaining to the employment of our members." This, according to those who have sent a letter sent by Canadian Union of Public Employees Local 15 president Paul Faoro to city manager Judy Rodgers this past Tuesday. In an interview with Public Eye, the mayor's community relations director Anna Lilly said it's her understanding Ms. Rodgers will be responding to the union's request shortly. But "to the question from Mr. Faoro - and it's a good question - as to whether the individual he's speaking about - George Higgins - will be working in our office or having access to any kind of personal records or any kind of confidential information pertaining to union members, the answer to that is no on both counts."

Community Living British Columbia may not be talking about its leaked proposed service delivery plan. But the New Democrats are. In an interview with Public Eye, the party's children and family development critic Maurine Karagianis said, “CLBC has said we are not trying to shut down group homes. And yet all of the information I hear within the special needs community is pointing to the fact the government is definitely doing away with group homes. Now we clearly see there's a statement here that they're going to get rid of no more than 100.” Ms. Karagianis also slammed the authority for its plan to convert some group homes into community residences - but not count those changes as closures. “This is the most stealthy, underhanded way of shutting down services for special needs communities."

The provincial government authority charged with providing services for the developmentally disabled may close up to 100 group homes. This, according to a proposed service delivery plan obtained exclusively by Public Eye. In an interview Tuesday, Community Living British Columbia external relations advisor Lisa Gardonio declined to comment on the plan saying "It's a discussions document with our service providers. It's nowhere near final. And CLBC is certainly not going to comment on draft discussion documents." Thankfully, though, that document seems to speak for itself.

The federal Conservatives ride a high horse when they talk about morals and ethics. But this story may knock them off their saddle a bit. Tomorrow, the party's Saanich-Gulf Islands constituency association was scheduled to hold a high-priced fundraiser featuring Indian Affairs and Northern Development Minister Jim Prentice and Natural Resources Minister Gary Lunn. There's nothing extraordinary about that. But an email promoting the luncheon - which was limited to 15 people at a cost of $500 per plate - raised some eyebrows. According to those who have seen the email, Tories were told they would have an opportunity at the fundraiser to “put detailed questions” to the ministers and receive “frank, off the record answers” - as well as an “excellent first class” lunch at the Union Club of British Columbia. But it seems some senior party members didn't think the wording of that email was appropriate. So the luncheon was cancelled.

Provincial Liberal headquarters is grabbing some cash from the party's local constituency associations. In an email sent out on Sunday, operations director Brian Bonney reminded members that if a minister attends an association fundraiser - even if it's just to have dinner - the party will deposit 40 percent of the money raised at the event into its own bank account. The rest will go into a separate account for the association, which is held by the party. And what's the reason for this so-called speakers bureau levy? According to Mr. Bonney, funds raised will go to “pay down any debt and fund (head office) activities.” In an interview with Public Eye, Liberal communications director Chad Pederson explained the levy - which has parallels in other political parties - was introduced last year. He declined to say how much debt the Liberals are in. The following is an edited copy of Mr. Bonney's emails.

Remember Anne-Marie Delorey? She's the British Columbia Government and Service Employees' Union staffer who has been filling in for provincial New Democrat caucus researcher Maura Parte. Well, it seems her presence at the Rockpile has become somewhat more permanent. She's been hired as caucus's new research director, replacing Don Anderson who departed the precincts back in November.

Partnerships British Columbia's chief executive officer Larry Blain has been skewered and roasted by the press for his exorbitant salary, which came in at $519,448 in fiscal 2004-05. But, last month, during his presentation to the select standing committee on Crown corporations, Partnerships British Columbia chair Rick Mahler told legislators the government-owned company does "extensive reviews by third-party consultants to ensure that our salaries are in keeping with industry standards." And what do those reviews say, you may wonder? Well, to answer that question we filed a freedom of information request asking for copies of those reviews. But, according to a letter from the government-owned company, we might not get a chance to see them because they “contain information that may affect the interests of another business.” Fancy that! Partnerships British Columbia says it will make a final decision about whether it can disclose the records by February 15 - after consulting with the business affected.

More news from the Grits: in addition to speaking with British Columbia's federal Liberal council, former leadership candidates Martha Hall Findlay and Bob Rae will be kicking off a series of campaign platform consultations this coming Saturday. Those consultation will take place with grassroots party members at Simon Fraser University's Surrey campus. Ms. Hall Findlay will also be making a swing through Victoria on Thursday and Friday - which will include meetings with tourism and business stakeholders. The following is a complete copy of her schedule, as well as an invite to the consultation event in Surrey.

Last we forget, during the federal Liberal leadership campaign, Stephane Dion promised one-third of all the party's candidates in the next election would be women. And so the estrogen search is underway in British Columbia for a few good females who will run in one of the 28 electoral districts that don't already have an incumbent Grit. And who are they looking at as potential candidates? Well, one name that has been making the rounds is that of former Sierra Club of British Columbia conservation chair Vicky Husband - who, according to The Vancouver Sun's Stephen Hume - was "ousted" from that post back in Octomber. But, despite that ousting, Ms. Husband ruled out a run for the Liberals.

Premier Gordon Campbell's policy coordination and issues management deputy chief of staff Tom Syer is leaving the Rockpile for the liquour industry. In an email sent to friends and colleagues, Mr. Syer wrote that he'll be taking over from Neil Sweeney as the Western Canada public affairs director for Labatt Breweries of Canada Ltd. Mr. Sweeney, who was once deputy chief of staff to the premier, recently became the company's corporate affairs vice-president. The following is an edited copy of that email.

Former leadership candidates Scott Brison, Martha Hall Findlay and Bob Rae will be jetting into Vancouver this weekend to do campaign platform consultations with British Columbia's federal Liberal council. The three of them will be speaking to the council on Saturday at the Holiday Inn Express Hotel and Suites in Surrey. Other speakers will include The Element Agency president Don Millar, who is scheduled to talk about Internet strategy. And national party president Senator Marie Poulin will be addressing the council on Friday evening - in advance of a reception at the hotel's Vista Room. But the main event will surely be a late Sunday wine-tasting at River's Bend Winery - Surrey's first and only winery.

As the first anniversary of the last federal election approaches, let's take stock of the political environment across Canada starting with a party that's been get a lot of attention recently and, apparently, rising rapidly in the polls - the Greens. Despite their best efforts to present themselves otherwise, you have to believe the Greens are still seen by the majority of voters as a single-issue party. The selection of a well-known environmentalist Elizabeth May) as their new leader pretty much ensured that.

Jamie Elmhirst has resigned as the president of the federal Liberals in British Columbia. Earlier, there had been talk he wouldn't be seeking re-election at the party's annual provincial general meeting - scheduled for April. But, in a letter sent to Liberal executives, Mr. Elmhirst writes, "With the potential for a spring 2007 federal election campaign still strong, it is not inconceivable that our convention could be delayed again until the fall." That coming election means the party "needs a president...completely focused and committed to winning more Liberal seats in British Columbia." And - because of "many important personal commitments over the coming year, including my wedding in July and the need to focus on my busines" - Mr. Elmhirst doesn't believe he can "deliver the level of commitment and focus that the organization deserves." His responsibilities will be transferred to British Columbia vice-president Rex Renkema. The following is a complete copy of Mr. Elmhirst's letter.

Earlier, we broke the news that provincial Liberal backbencher Lorne Mayencourt was considering running for the federal Conservatives. If that happens, there will be a by-election in Vancouver-Burrard. And that has some pondering who will succeed Mr. Mayencourt as the Liberal candidate in that riding. Well, former Non-Partisan Association Vancouver park board chair Duncan Wilson did run for the party in Vancouver-Burrard back in 1996. But his present post as the senior corporate communications and public affairs advisor at the Vancouver Port Authority would likely preclude him from seeking the nomination. But how about former Vancouver city councillor Lynne Kennedy? Well, in an interview with Public Eye, Ms. Kennedy ruled out a run. "I'm quite happy in my retirement." Although she, "It's kind of people to think that I could do the job. But I've very busy in business. And I've found that it's a busy life." So the Liberals may be in need of some candidate suggestions.

The federal Liberals in British Columbia seem to have a penchant for recruiting New Democrats as candidates. So your humble organ wasn't quite as surprised as we should have been when we heard rumours that some Grits would like to see former provincial cabinet minister Elizabeth Cull run for them in Victoria against incumbent New Democrat Denise Savoie. And what does Ms. Cull have to say about those rumours, you may wonder? Well, in an interview with Public Eye she quipped "I gather they're talking about every New Democrat that can breathe and string three sentences together." That being said, Ms. Cull added she's also heard her name being mentioned as a possible Liberal candidate. "And I've heard (the same rumours) about a number of other ex-MLAs or NDP supporters who have never been elected or are prominent in the community and the party...Can't they find Liberals? Is there that much of a shortage of good Liberals in B.C.?" Needless to say, Ms. Cull said she's not interested in helping the Grits out.

Mayor Sam Sullivan's administration hasn't been without its critics, as evidenced in recent columns by the Vancouver Courier's Allen Garr and former Non-Partisan Association board member Alex Tsakumis. And, in less public quarters, some members of the mayor's civic party have been expressing similar concerns. But, according to the rumour mill, he could soon be addressing some of that criticism head-on in a state of the city address - possibly as early as this coming Tuesday. And, if those rumours are true, that means you now have less than 48 hours to make a suggestion on what should be in that speech. Phone lines are open.

Tonight, on Public Eye Radio, Saanich North and the Islands provincial Liberal constituency association board member Fred Langford discusses his proposal to increase government funding to independent schools. The Vancouver Courier's Allen Garr talks about former top provincial bureaucrat Ken Dobell's retired contractswith the City of Vancouver. And British Columbia Business Council executive vice-president of policy Jock Finlayson will tell us why we shouldn't scared of our recent trade, investment and labour mobility agreement with Alberta. Also on the show: provincial Green deputy leader Angela Reid talks about the fortunes of her party. And our rabble-rousing panel - Troy DeSouza, Michael Prince, Bob Russell and Allan Warnke - 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, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

Tonight, on Public Eye Radio, we'll talk with former national defence department assistant deputy minister Alan Williams about his book Reinventing Canadian Defence Procurement: A View from the Inside. Sencot'en Alliance coordinator Eric Pelkey discusses why he's opposed to the final agreement signed last month between the Tsawwassen First Nation and the provincial and federal governments. And Coquitlam city councillor Richard Stewart will be explaining why he and his colleagues want the Campbell administration to introduce legislation that would penalize local elected officials who leak confidential information. Also on the show: documentary filmmaker Kevin Pina shares with us the latest news about United Nations activities in Haiti. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 7:00 and 9:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

The federal Conservatives may not have a majority government. But, under the circumstances, they do have the next best thing. This, after Liberal parliamentarian Wajid Khan defected and his caucus colleague Jean LaPierre resigned. Some might have foreseen Mr. Khan's crossing coming for quite some time - simply because it's unusual for an opposition party member to serve the prime minister as a special advisor for anything. His experience in the Pakistan Air Force allowed him to claim "expertise" in something that no one else on the Hill has. Although an eyebrow can be lifted to wonder why he was special enough to attain advisory status.

Earlier this week, Vision Vancouver councillor Tim Stevenson said it would be "tempting" to be the New Democrat candidate in Vancouver-Burrard if incumbent Liberal legislator Lorne Mayencourt resigns his seat to run federally. But, he told The Province's Michael Smyth, "I don't think I could win it without Mayencourt around. The guy is so unpopular and has such a poor reputation that anyone the Liberals run there is bound to get more votes!" Notwithstanding the accuracy of that statement, it got some members of that chattering classes wondering whether other Vision Vancouver elected officials might be thinking about a change of jurisdiction - officials like Raymond Louie.

Mayor Sam Sullivan's decision to hire a new political staffer - independent of the Non-Partisan Association board - is the latest round in an ongoing debate about the future shape and direction of Vancouver's ruling civic party. On Monday evening, we exclusively reported former federal Conservative campaign manager George Higgins would soon be helping the mayor "keep the lines of communication open" between his caucus and the party.

Community Living British Columbia's offices are getting a makeover. In an interview with Public Eye, communications director Sally Greenwood confirmed the authority is rennovating many of its workspaces throughout the province, turning them into open space offices. Explained Ms. Greenwood, "This is something that's being done more and more in many organizations now." But, in the case of Community Living British Columbia, "any rennovations that we are doing are for the betterment of the space" - to make them more "welcoming environments" where clients will eventually be able to "log onto computers if they don't have Internet access."

24 hours has launched a new weekly feature section to highlight Public Eye's muckraking work. In today's edition, we reveal children and family development deputy minister Lesley du Toit's attempt to cut off the flow of leaks from her department. And we report on the expanding number of high-paid, senior bureaucrats at the ministry of health. As always, feedback and tips for future investigations are appreciated.

The leaks coming out of children and family development haven't exactly been good for the troubled ministry's top bureaucrat Lesley du Toit. Last year, for example, the deputy minister was caught instructing bureaucrats not to use government email to promote Bike to Work Week - a provincially-funded exercise program that has become an annual tradition for the civil service. And, in another memo, she admitted her decision to transform the ongoing transformation process at children and family development could cause "further confusion." So it will come as no surprise to our readers that Ms. du Toit has moved to prevent the press from getting their hands on such documents in the future.

Extra lean: that seems to be how conservatives prefer their governments. So it came as no surprise when the premier and his cabinet colleagues liposuctioned the civil service during their first term in office. For example, in fiscal 2000/01 there were 3,282 full time equivalents working in the health ministry. Today, there are 2,852 - a 13 percent reduction, as some branches of that ministry have been out-sourced or put under new management. But not everyone at health has been put on a diet plan. The government's 2000 phone directory lists six civil servants at health as having the title of assistant deputy minister, associate deputy minister or deputy minister (the most senior bureaucratic ranks). But, today, the ministry has 12 senior bureaucrats - bureaucrats who are now receiving bigger pay cheques than ever before thanks to a mid-summer pay raise.

Earlier, we reported George Higgins will soon be working as Mayor Sam Sullivan's caucus coordinator. So we wanted to ask his employer some questions about that new post, such as how it's being funded. Because it's our understanding that said funding isn't coming from taxpayers - which is as it should be, given that Mr. Higgins is expected to be functioning in a somewhat partisan capacity. But so far we haven't been successful in getting a response to this question. In a message left yesterday on Public Eye's answering machine, the mayor's community relations director Anna Lilly said, "I don't really have any information for you. That's a hire made by the mayor. So I'm just going to let him know you're interested in additional information and let him decide if he'd like to give you a call back." We're still waiting.

Earlier, we ruminated on our good friend Ken Dobell's present public service activities - which see him lobbying the province on behalf of the City of Vancouver while working as a special advisor to the premier. And now Vancouver Courier's Allen Garr has obtained documentation showing the effective start date for Mr. Dobell's work with the city was backdated to August 15 - almost two months before council approved his contract. And here's another fascinating factoid from Mr. Garr's column: in 2005, Public Eye published a copy of the former top bureaucrat's contract with the premier's office. But, before releasing that contract to your humble organ, freedom of information officials blacked out the hourly rate for Mr. Dobell's services. Today, though, Mr.Garr is reporting that rate is $250 per hour. As a deputy minister, Mr. Dobell made $110.95 per hour, according to public accounts.

Matt Takach, one of the federal Green's first full-time staffers, will soon no longer be on the party's payroll. Mr. Takach was best known for having been the Green's national director of organization, successfully coordinating the effort to run the party's second consecutive slate of 308 candidates in 2006. But three months ago, he switched jobs to become the Green's British Columbia organizer. And, on Thursday, he'll be packing his bags and heading over to the Dogwood Initiative where he'll be working as the environmental organization's office manager.

It seems Stephane Dion isn't the only federal party leader who will be making some whistlestops in British Columbia later this month. Public Eye has learned Green leader Elizabeth May will be touring the province between January 20 and 25, visiting Prince George, Kelowna, Salt Spring Island, Vancouver and Victoria. No word yet on where she'll be when.

Former Pilothouse Public Affairs Inc. lobbyist Erik Bornman has become, by any measure, a notable figure in British Columbia political history. After all, according to search warrants released last April, he is alleged to have "received information and documents" from David Basi "in exchange for payments" which were forwarded to the then ministerial assistant. But it seems some Wikipedia readers have a different view.

Sam Sullivan will soon be getting a little help around the office, Public Eye has learned. Vancouver AM Tourism Association executive director George Higgins is starting work next month as the mayor's caucus coordinator. In an interview, Mr. Higgins explained "We're still exploring what exactly that's going to mean. But, essentially, it's going to be a position helping keep the lines of communication open between caucus and the party and the mayor and interested parties." Mr. Higgins was most recently the campaign manager for federal Conservative Vancouver Quadra candidate Stephen Rogers. He also sits on the board of the Tory constituency association in that riding. And, back in 2003, Mr. Higgins was a regional organizer for the party.

Here at Public Eye, we're still betting Staples McDannold Stewart lawyer Troy DeSouza will be reprising his role as the federal Conservative candidate in Esquimalt-Juan de Fuca. But some local party members are hoping former Esquimalt-Metchosin Liberal backbencher Arnie Hamilton will run for that nomination. Mr. Hamilton, who was a policeman before becoming a politician, had planned to seek re-election to the provincial legislature. But a September 2004 tumble at the University of Northern British Columbia - which resulted in a serious brain injury - forced him to reverse that decision.

Yes, John Baird moving to environment was important. But, buried amongst the stories covering last week's cabinet shuffle, were a number of other changes - one in particular that may tell us much more about Stephen Harper's long term plans for his party, his government and the face he intends to present to voters when they go to the polls to choose their next government.

Today, we are pleased to announce the addition of three new voices to Public Eye. Beginning this week, former British Columbia New Democrat deputy minister John Heaney, former Alberta Liberal chief of staff Bob Russell and former Richmond-Steveston Liberal legislator Allan Warnke will be sharing their observations and opinions on provincial and federal issues.

Tonight, on Public Eye Radio, former Greenpeace climate campaigner Josh Matlow shares with us his thoughts on Canada's new environment minister John Baird. Provincial New Democrat energy, mines and petroleum resources critic John Horgan weighs in on the controversial power sale deal between Alcan Inc. and BC Hydro Corp. And former Non-Partisan Association board member Alex Tsakumis will be chatting about Terminal City politics. Also on the show: University of Victoria drug policy researcher Alan Cassels discusses the Diabetes Industrial Complex. And our rabble-rousing panel - Troy DeSouza, Ariel Lade, Bob Russell and Allan Warnke - 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, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

With a federal election just months away, Lotusland Liberals are turning their attention to the question of who will be chairing their campaign - posts previously occupied by Sharon Apsey and Mark Marissen. Early speculation is that former Rae leadership campaign British Columbia co-chair Pam McDonald and former Kennedy leadership campaign senior strategist Bruce Young are in line for those posts. And there's also talk that Rushbrooke Communications principal Mike Witherly will be the campaign director - which was Kim Haakstad's job during the last election.

Headlining provincial Liberal backbencher Lorne Mayencourt is thinking about running for the federal Conservatives in the next election. In an interview Public Eye, Mr. Mayencourt confirmed he was approach last year about becoming a Tory candidate - possibly in Vancouver Centre or Vancouver South. But, before he even considers submiting his nomination papers, the Vancouver-Burrard MLA wants to ensure his Safe Schools Act is passed. "I feel that's the major of piece of business that I have yet to accomplish," he says.

"Can this man save the environment?" That was the headline The Gazette ran above a profile of Canada's new environment minister John Baird. But perhaps a better question is "does he even want to save the environment?" After all, back when he was Ontario premier Ernie Eves's energy minister, then Greenpeace climate campaigner Josh Matlow caught Mr. Baird partying at a "very chummy shrimp-and-wine gathering" with the Canadian Coalition for Responsible Environmental Solutions - an industry group opposed to the Kyoto Protocol. And, during that October 2002 gathering, Minister Baird reportedly made an "anti-Kyoto rallying cry. Needless to say, the audience with very receptive."

Former Victoria-Hillside provincial Liberal legislator Sheila Orr has made her return to the Rockpile. Ms. Orr, who ran in the last federal election as the Grit candidate in Saanich-Gulf Islands has been appointed governor general - of this year's University Model Parliament, which gets underway tonight and runs until Sunday.

As some of our astute readers may know, the Non-Partisan Association is scheduling its upcoming annual general meeting for late March or early April. At that meeting, a number of seats on the association's board of directors will come up for re-election - including the one presently occupied by the civic party's former president Paul Barbeau. But it's expected Mr. Barbeau, who has served on the board for years, won't be seeking re-election. Although he may involved with the association's election readiness or campaign committee.

Monday Magazine's Russ Francis is saying "au revoir" to the Georgia Straight. In today's edition of the Vancouver alternative newspaper, Mr. Francis, one of British Columbia's best known muckrakers, writes "this is my final (Victoria Secrets) column for the Straight. Over the last year and a half, I've enjoyed working with the Straight's staff." So why is he leaving? Speaking with Public Eye, editor Charlie Smith made it clear he's been "happy with Russ's work." In fact, Mr. Francis is welcome to continue contributing articles for publication in the Georgia Straight.

Earlier, The Ottawa Citizen's Norma Greenaway reported rumours a "couple of respected and hardworking Conservatives left out of the first cabinet" could be promoted to that august body this week "including B.C. MP James Moore and Calgary MP Diane Ablonczy." Of course, as we found out today, those promotions didn't happen. But, curiously, images for both Ms. Ablonczy and Mr. Moore have been uploaded to the Prime Minister Stephen Harper's Website.

Today, The Province's Ian Bailey reported federal International Trade Minister David Emerson has "yet to make a decision about seeking a third term as MP for Vancouver-Kingsway." In fact, his constituency association president Marilyn Brown "said the riding has been told by Tory political operations in Ottawa not to hold a nomination meeting for Emerson for undisclosed reasons." But if Minister Emerson does seek re-election, some party members are of the belief he'll switch ridings and run in Richmond. After all, he was formerly chief executive officer of the Vancouver International Airport Authority - which is located in Richmond. And that electoral district, like Vancouver-Kingsway, has a large Chinese-Canadian constituency, comprising 44 percent of the riding.

You would think Health Minister George Abbott would want to comment on Penny Ballem's headlining-making assessment of the healthcare system. After all, she is his former deputy. But, apparently, Minister Abbot is too busy with constituency work to speak with Public Eye. Clearly, the voters in Shuswap are lucky to have such a committed legislator representing them.

"Mayor Sam Sullivan has six to nine more months to make something happen or he's in serious trouble." So sayeth Allen Garr in today's edition of The Vancouver Courier. As our astute readers will be aware, Mr. Garr is not alone in his criticism of the Sullivan administration. And Non-Partisan Association elected officials will have an opportunity to talk about those critiques during their next caucus meeting, which is tenatively scheduled for January 9. Those officials last met on September 25 - a day before The Vancouver Sun published an editorial by former association board member Alex Tsakumis which described the administration's tenure, thus far, as being "riddled with media relations staff incompetence, malignant shielding of the mayor, trial balloons, and policy on the defensive fly."

The Bill Good of British Columbia's Chinese-Canadian community will soon be lending his vocal talents to Chuck Strahl. Ronald Leung, who ran as a Non-Partisan Association council candidate in the last civic election, will be joining ministers' regional office as a special assistant to the federal agriculture minister. Mr. Leung is presently a Fairchild Radio AM 1470 producer and program host.

Penny Ballem says the kinds of policies made "two hours after question period when it's been a bad hair day for the minister or worse the premier" are "wrecking healthcare systems." That's just one of the additional remarks Dr. Ballem made during her headline-making "breakfast with the chiefs" speech last month in Toronto. At that breakfast, British Columbia's former top health bureaucrat also told healthcare administrators one of her most important jobs was to recognize the "little niggling story" that can "create really ugly policy on the run." For example, back in 2002, as part of the government's extended care reorganization, Grace and Alfred Potvin were moved to a new facility where they were assigned to seperate rooms until a public outcry saw the elderly couple reunited. And, according to Dr. Ballem, "that one little story way out in the Fraser Valley stayed with us forever."

The province's former top health bureaucrat is questioning why doctors get pay raises when they deliver poor quality care. Speaking at a lecture last month in Toronto, Penny Ballem - who is a practicing academic physician - says, "40 per cent of the patients in (British Columbia) with diabetes are getting good care. That's atrocious! Who would ever get a bonus and a raise in their salary when they've got a 40 per cent alignment with the best practice rate? Where does that happen other than in healthcare and with my profession?" And she says the powerful medical advisory committees at British Columbia's hospitals should working to improve patient care rather than worrying about labour relations.