March 2007 Archives

Earlier this morning, Public Eye suggested North Vancouver district councillor Doug Mackay-Dunn would be running for the federal Conservative nomination in that riding. About 30 minutes later, the constituency association's annual general meeting got underway at Cheers Restaurant. And, during that meeting, Mr. MacKay-Dunn joined the two other nomination candidates in addressing local Tories. In an interview with Public Eye, riding president Brian Wilson said the councillor made his decision to run last night. Although, "He hasn't made his official announcement yet. He's still getting his nomination papers signed and his i's dotted and t's crossed."

As our astute readers know, there are presently two candidates running for the federal Conservative nomination in North Vancouver: Peter Krahn and Andrew Saxton. But some Tories are hoping a third name steps up to the starting line: specifically, North Vancouver district councillor Doug Mackay-Dunn. Mr. Mackay-Dunn, a former North Vancouver school board chair, had a 30-year career with the city's police department.

The Lheidli T'enneh First Nation has rejected a final agreement initialled with the provincial and federal governments last October. Chief Dominic Frederick had earlier expressed confidence that the agreement would receive the 70 percent support needed to ratify the deal. "I have no worries, I am confident," he told Opinion 250. But that confidence seems to have been misplaced. Out of the 234 votes cost, 123 voted no.

On Thursday, your humble organ questioned whether former federal New Democrat parliamentarian Svend Robinson was considering running for provincial politics. Admittedly, we already had a good idea about what the answer to that question might be. And, in an interview with The Vancouver Sun's Peter O'Neil, Mr. Robinson confirmed that he's "had many people encouraging me to look at the possibility of running in Burnaby, and certainly Burnaby North was always my home turf." Funny that.

More than a year ago, Premier Gordon Campbell "unveiled a comprehensive $3-billion plan to open up the province's transportation network today in Vancouver" - also known as the Gateway Program. But the provincial New Democrats still haven't decided whether they'll support that program. At a news conference in January, party leader Carole James told reporters, "We're waiting for the information” - a reference to Opposition demands for transportation ministry documentation on the environmental impact of that program. “It's critical to get the information, to get the facts to be able to make a decision based on that.” But could it be that some of her caucus members are getting a bit tired of standing in the middle of the road? After all, transportation critic David Chudnovsky is scheduled to attend a mass rally in Delta against the highway expansion project - this, according to an announcement from Gatewaysucks.org "a loose voluntary association of individuals and organizations who are ticked off about Gateway." The following is a complete copy of that announcement.

Earlier, we reported Steve McClurg had submitted his nomination papers to run for the federal Liberals. But he won't be on the ballot in New Westminster-Coquitlam. In an email, Mr. McClurg tell us "I have decided the most positive place for me to run is in Burnaby-New Westminster. I believe I would only be facilitating a win for the Conservatives in Coquitlam."

Here's some news from the world of kiddie politics: Crease Harman and Company partner Bruce Hallsor has been retained to review the results of last year's University of Victoria Student Society elections. Society resource coordinator Susan Farmer said chairperson Penny Beames wouldn't be able to comment on the nature of the review until Monday, as she is out of town tending to "personal matters."

Earlier, we reported John Moonen and Associates Ltd. government relations consultant Colin Doylend and former provincial Liberal backbencher Rob Nijjar are running for seats on the Non-Partisan Association's board of directors. Also competing will be Broughton Law Corp. shareholder George Cadman, Natural Resource Minister Gary Lunn's British Columbia assistant Andrea Smith and Pottinger Gaherty Environmental Consultants Ltd. chairman Ned Pottinger. The complete list of hopefuls is expected to be rolled out later today.

Back in 2004, the City of Vancouver hired Tom Osdoba as its first sustainability manager. Mr. Osdoba, a founding principal of Portland environmental strategy firm E4 Partners Inc., was quite a catch for the city. Prior to becoming a consultant, he worked for the Minnesota government in "several capacities, from policy analyst to a strategic manager for the Office of Environmental Assistance." So Vancouver Courier readers may have been surprised to learn Mr. Osdoba was, according to a receptionist at the sustainability office, allegedly "fired with cause" last week.

Earlier, we reported provincial government deputy ministers have been assigned a new set of performance objectives, including reducing the use of professional consultants. In an interview with Public Eye, community services communications manager Marc Black said senior civil servants have been given a mandate to cut spending on those consultants by $15 million or 15 percent across government. "We're trying to reduce the number of professional consultants, recognizing that it makes fiscal sense and offers new job and training opportunities for staff," he explained. So does that mean Ken Dobell's pricey contract with the premier's office might not be renewed?

As some of our astute readers know, there's been much discussion recently about whether Vancouver-Fairview provincial New Democrat legislator Gregor Robertson would consider running to be mayor of Vancouver. So we thought we might see what Mr. Robertson himself has to say about that talk. Asked whether he would rule out a run for that office, he said, "It's not something I'm considering or focusing any attention on right now. But I wouldn't rule out anything in the long-term. I'm born and bred in Vancouver. It's a city I love - it's a city I represent here in the legislature - whose best interests I'm going to work for ongoing." And would he considering putting his name on the ballot for the upcoming civic election? "It's not on my radar right now. It falls within the term I've been elected here to represent."

Recent reviews of Labour and Citizens' Services Minister Olga Ilich's performance in the legislature have been less than favourable. The Vancouver Sun's Vaughn Palmer, for example, described Minister Ilich - one of the "shakier members of the cabinet" - as being "all stumbles and gaffes" when responding to New Democrat accusations the Campbell administration had failed to protect farm workers. But today, when the Opposition came after with similar questions, she received some morale support from Deputy Premier Shirley Bond, who was spotted repeatedly telling Minister Ilich "good job" after two of her responses.

Who's that we spy on the floor of the provincial legislature? Why it's none other than former federal Conservative national campaign co-chair John Reynolds! Not surprisingly, his presence during the first few minutes of the legislature's afternoon sitting had many press gallery members asking what Mr. Reynolds was doing down at the Rockpile. And we have the answer. In an interview with Public Eye, Mr. Reynolds - who spent much of members' statements chatting with Transportation Minister Kevin Falcon - told us he dropped by to pay his respects to Speaker of the Legislative Assembly Bill Barisoff, as well as meet with Forests and Range Minister Rich Coleman. And what was that meeting about? "Just talking politics," responded Mr. Reynolds. "Nothing nefarious," Minister Coleman later quipped.

Earlier, we reported former New Westminster-Coquitlam federal New Democrat candidate Steve McClurg was thinking about running for the Liberals in that same riding. And it turns out he has now acted on those thoughts. Speaking with Public Eye this morning, Mr. McClurg confirmed he submitted his nomination papers to the green light committee on Tuesday. "Like I said to them, I'm most of the way there. I'm really interested in running. Let's talk some more next week." Meanwhile, in related news, some Liberals are wondering whether former Industrial, Wood and Allied Workers of Canada president David Haggard will be hoisting the Liberal flag in Nanaimo-Alberni. Mr. Haggard previously ran for the party in New Westminster-Coquitlam and Vancouver East.

When last we left Svend Robinson, the former federal New Democrat parliamentarian was working at the British Columbia Government Employees' Union as a staff representative. That was back in August 2004. So we're sure our readers are anxious for an update on what Mr. Robinson has been up to since then. Well, transferring his provincial party membership from Burnaby-Willingdon to Burnaby North, for one thing. Burnaby North constituency members voted to approve that transfer this past Sunday during their annual general meeting - which was held at the Confederation Seniors Centre. Under the party's provincial constitution, British Columbial executive members must still rubber stamp that transfer. Meanwhile, our readers can contemplate why Mr. Robinson might be on the move.

Here's a question for our astute readers: are the federal Greens about to get considerably closer with the Liberals? This, after The Vancouver Sun's Peter O'Neil reported Green leader Elizabeth May was facing "harsh internal criticism" for frequently praising Liberal leader Stephane Dion. And, more importantly, does this question have any foundation in fact?

Port Moody Mayor Joe Trasolini told fellow TransLink board members this morning he won't be participating in future decisions or discussions involving the Evergreen Line. Speaking with Public Eye, Mr. Trasolini - who owns a $2.5 million commercial property along that line, said "This is what I told the board, 'Is there a potential conflict of interest? Well, anybody who has any property anywhere in the Lower Mainland has a potential. That's not the issue.' I told them I have never in the past been in a situation where I find myself in conflict. If I had, I would have walked out. However, we have something like two or three meetings left on this board. And the Evergreen Line is very, very important. If there's any perception whatsoever that I might hurt any decisions of the board, I will not participate. But the likelihood of there being an item on the Evergreen Line - which has been postponed till 2010 - is unlikely. But if there was, I would walk out on that one item."

Can't get enough of federal Liberal leader Stephane Dion and his oh-so-stylish backpack? Well, adoring fans will be pleased to know Mr. Dion is scheduled to visit British Columbia on the weekend of April 14. Tickets won't be on sale at Ticketmaster, though.

Here's some extra Greens to add to your news diet: in an interview with Public Eye, Equanimity Communications Inc. principal Allan Hunkin confirmed he wants to run for the federal party in Port Moody-Westwood-Port Coquitlam. "Oh man, news travels fast," said Mr. Hunkin. "I haven't signed the papers. But I've certainly given it serious thought...I've pretty well decided (to run). I haven't sat down with the party and gone over the riding numbers. But, based on what I know right now, I'm in." Mr. Hunkin is also the chief executive officer of Success Media Group Inc. - "one of the largest audio broadcasters of life enhancement (programs) on the Internet." According to his biography, he has also had "first-hand experience in such diverse areas as farming, aircraft manufacturing, event management and Internet broadcasting." And he "holds diplomas and credentials in five different psychological models."

Earlier, we reported the federal Greens had commissioned Oraclepoll Research Ltd. to conduct a public opinion survey in Vancouver Centre. Not surprisingly, our muckraking colleague Bill Tieleman has received of copy of the contents of that survey, which includes both voter intention and top-of-mind questions.

Back in February, the provincial government announced it would be introducing legislation to end mandatory retirement. The reason: according to a report by the premier's council on aging and seniors' issues, "It is time for a new view of aging and of the role of older people in our province. The fact that older adults are a valuable and contributing part of our society hasn't been fully recognized. We must increase opportunities for older people to remain engaged with others in their communities, and continue to share their knowledge, experience and skills." But, at the same time, the Campbell administration is taking steps to ensure public service recruits are somewhat fresher-faced.

More raceside news from the Non-Partisan Association board elections: speaking with Public Eye earlier this morning, John Moonen and Associates Ltd. government relations consultant Colin Doylend confirmed he's submitted papers to run for one of the civic party's eight open director seats. Mr. Doylend managed Sam Sullivan's council campaign during the 2002 election.

Earlier, we exclusively reported Port Moody Mayor and TransLink director Joe Trasolini owns a $2.5 million commercial property near the proposed Evergreen Line - a Greater Vancouver Transportation Authority project. Our understanding is that this ownership issue may be discussed this morning by TransLink board members. Mr. Trasolini has denied any conflict concerns exist.

That'll be the tagline for the provincial government's new public service marketing plan, scheduled to be rolled out at 8:00 tonight, during the Premier's Innovation and Excellence Awards ceremony. It's our understanding that brand will be accompanied by a number of incentives for those already in the civil service, as well as new recruits. Of course, we're sure out astute readers can think of many examples where ideas have worked under the Campbell administration...or not, as the case may be. Examples are welcome.

Yesterday, The Vancouver Sun's Francis Bula reported The Republic of East Vancouver's publisher Kevin Potvin has been acclaimed as the federal Green candidate in Vancouver-Kingsway. But who else will be running for the party in the upcoming election? Well, that's an excellent rhetorical question. In an interview with Public Eye, David Suzuki Foundation salmon conservation biologist John Werring confirmed he has had some discussions about being the Green candidate in Surrey North - which is presently held by New Democrat parliamentarian Penny Priddy. Asked when he would make an announcement about his political future, Mr. Werring said, "A lot of it is going to depend on what happens in Ottawa. If there's no rush, if there's no spring election, I can just continue doing what I'm doing and not have to worry about it. But, if an election is called, a decision would have to be made rather quickly."

The federal Greens should soon be receiving some political intelligence about voter intentions in Vancouver Centre, where deputy leader Adriane Carr is running against incumbent Liberal Hedy Fry. Ms. Carr's campaign has commissioned Oraclepoll Research Ltd. to find out just how many constituency residents will be going Green in the next election. Results of that survey - which is currently in the field - are expected shortly.

Earlier, we reported former provincial Liberal backbencher Rob Nijjar had applied to run for one of eight open seats on the Non-Partisan Association's board of directors. And who wll be competing against him, you may wonder? Well, those names haven't been released yet. But we do know that around 15 people have submitted nomination papers - which should make for a vigorous race. By comparison, last year there were just 11 candidates for seven open board seats.

Want to run for the Non-Partisan Association's board of directors? Well, if you didn't get your nomination papers in by last Friday, you're out of luck. But one of those who did was former provincial Liberal backbencher Rob Nijjar. In an interview with Public Eye, he explained, "I've been involved with the NPA before. That's how I started out - Jennifer Clarke, the second time she ran her campaign. I've known Sam Sullivan since then. And I worked closely with him throughout that time. And also, when I was a MLA, I happened to be his MLA. So the reason I'm running is quite simple. It's the same reason I ran for the Liberals. I care about my city. I care about my province. And, if I want the province and the city to go in the right direction - in this case the city - I don't want COPE. I don't want an alternative."

The provincial government is promising bureaucrats that "big changes" will be announced tonight at the Premier's Innovation and Excellence Awards ceremony - being held at the Victoria Conference Centre. And what will those changes be, you may wonder? Well, as our astute readers may remember, back in October, the Campbell administration said it would be developing a "marketing campaign that helps to communicate the identity of the BC Public Service to potential recruits. This campaign will also be geared to boost pride and morale inside government, and to communicate who we are to the public we service." So it would make sense for Gordon Campbell to roll out that campaign at the ceremony - just before government is scheduled to release its next work environment survey.

Earlier this month, Premier Gordon Campbell and California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger met in Los Angeles to discuss their respective climate change action plans. Speaking with The Vancouver Sun's Miro Cernetig, Premier Campbell said, "The governor was both well-informed about what B.C. is doing and I think very enthusiastic about formalizing a partnership with the province." Details of that partnership haven't been released. But it's our understanding California has offered to share its Climate Action Registry Reporting Online Tool (or CARROT) with the Campbell administration. CARROT is a software package that simplifies the task of inventorying and reporting greenhouse gas emissions.

Earlier, we reported most of the provincial government's top bureaucrats are now making $207,900 - irrespective of the size of the ministry they're responsible for. That means, for example, tourism, sport and the arts deputy minister Bruce Okabe - who will be managing an estimated $129.5 million in operating expenses and 166 direct full-time equivalents in fiscal 2007/08 - will take home the same paycheque as employment and income assistance deputy minister Cairine MacDonald - who will be managing an estimated $1.5 billion in operating expenses and 1,973 full-time equivalents in the same fiscal year. Does that seem strange to anyone else? The following is a complete list of civil service heads earning $207,900 - including the operating expenses for their ministry and the number of full-time equivalents working for them.

So when will provincial Liberal backbencher Lorne Mayencourt say whether he's running for the federal Conservatives in the upcoming election? Some thought that announcement might have happened immediately following his annual fundraiser - which was attended by Tory poo-bahs Lyall Knott and John Reynolds. But that didn't happen. So now the suspicion is that a decision will be made somewhere on or about March 31. And that should give Mr. Mayencourt time to practice Mr. Reynolds name, whom he accidentally introduced as John Fraser during that fundraiser.

Earlier, we revealed children and family development deputy minister Lesley du Toit gets a $2,000 per month living allowance on top of her $207,900 annual salary. And here's a surprise: she's the only top bureaucrat to get such an allowance. This, according to the public service agency. Speaking with Public Eye, the premier's press secretary Mike Morton explained, "It's because of the fact she has a term contract. It's a four-year term contract. And she still maintains her permanent home in South Africa. And it was negotiated as part of her contract that, while she was here, she would receive a living allowance rather than moving her over here on a permanent basis."

Over the summer, the provincial government announced the annual maximum payable salary for line deputy ministers would be increasing from $203,500 to $221,760. But what the government didn't mention is that, as a result of that increase, many of those top bureaucrats - who previously made $180,000 - would now be making more than $200,000. For those keeping score, that beats the $115,100 made by their elected bosses. And it's heads and tails above the median income of British Columbia families: $55,900. The following is a complete listing of those raises, which were confirmed in letters sent to each deputy ministers on October 20.

Today, former diplomat and senior bureaucrat Anne Park Shannon will be acclaimed as the federal Liberal candidate in Victoria. And it looks like there's going to be another acclamation in Saanich-Gulf Islands. In an email sent to supporters and party officials earlier today, Kit Spence announced he won't be on the ballot when the Grits in that riding hold their nomination meeting next month. Mr. Spence, a political party development expert with the National Democratic Institute for International Affairs, will be in Pakistan at the time of that meeting - scheduled for April 1. And, while he initially "felt that it would be possible to contest the nomination and to fulfill my contract obligations" to the institute "it has become clear to me that I cannot do justice to both." As a result, Mr. Spence is throwing his support behind would-be parliamentarian Briony Penn. The following is a complete copy of that email.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, Saanich councillor Vic Derman will be talking about the capital region's upcoming coversations on climate change. Victoria federal Liberal nomination candidate Anne Park Shannon discusses why she wants to be the capital city's MP. And New Democrat Denise Savoie, the present officeholder, tell us why you should re-elect her instead. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Bob Russell, Alex Tsakumis, 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 8:30 and 10:00. 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.

Your humble organ is taking a few days of vacation this week. As a result, posting will be somewhat sporadic until next week.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, British Columbia's new child and youth representative Mary-Ellen Turpel-Lafond discusses the present and future of the province's child protection system. Dogwood Initiative Will Horter explains why electrifying Highway 37 isn't a climate change fighting project. And our rabble-rousing panel - Bob Russell, Alex Tsakumis, 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 8:30 and 10:00. 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.

This coming Sunday morning, on Public Eye Radio, British Columbia's new child and youth representative Mary-Ellen Turpel-Lafond will be on the line between 8:30 and 9:00 discussing her thoughts on the present and future of the province's child protection system. Given the interest many of our readers have in that system, we invite you to email us or leave a comment below if you have a question for Ms. Turpel-Lafond.

Using the Internet for personal reasons at work - such as checking eBay auctions - can be firing offense. So some bureaucrats were surprised this week when the provincial government rolled out a Buy and Sell feature on its Intranet - which is usually only accessed when civil servants are...er...at work. "Check out the new BC government employee classified web site," reads a promotional link. "List items you want to buy or sell. It's free! You can even include photos!" Of course, we're confident this service will only be used when bureaucrats are on their coffee or lunch breaks.

It seems the federal Liberals have succeeded in attracting another female nomination candidate. A still under-construction Website indicates former Canadian Red Cross humanitarian issues program coordinator Michelle Hassen will be seeking the party nomination New Westminster-Coquitlam. Former provincial cabinet minister Joyce Murray, who now wants to run in Vancouver Quadra, was the Liberal candidate in that riding during the last election.

The term "Liberal insider" isn't exactly a pejorative. Nevertheless, it's somewhat surprising to read Vancouver Quadra Liberal nomination candidate Catherine Evans using that term to describe her opponents Cindy Grauer and Joyce Murray. This, according to a media release announcing Ms. Evans's official entrance into that race. After all, in a nomination race, don't you want to emphasize your own party credentials rather those held by the candidates running against you? The following is a complete copy of that release.

Langley's federal Liberals seem to be hiking into unhappy camper territory. In an email sent yesterday to provincial office and fellow constituency association presidents, Al Peterson complains "the candidate selection process must include the EDA from the very beginning. As we understand the process now, the potential candidate must contact the provincial office to get nomination papers, and the EDA may not know who these people are until the nomination meeting is called. This is unacceptable. If we are truly a grass roots organization, the individuals must contact the EDA executive before being declared a candidate in the nomination process." But, in an interview with Public Eye, party provincial executive director Mark Grant confirmed riding associations are informed when potential candidates submit their nomination papers.

Last month, former Conservative candidate Marc Dalton succeeded in putting a number of his supporters on the Burnaby-New Westminster riding association's board of directors. But it seems Mr. Dalton, a former community church pastor who now works as a teacher-librarian, didn't want anyone to know he was behind that plan. In an email marked "CONFIDENTIAL" and sent out prior to the association's annual general meeting, he instructs supporters to put their names forward as would-be board members. But, he warns, "let this be done in a natural flow - it might cause concern if all 17 raise hands excitedly the moment volunteers and nominations are asked for."

Mark Jiles, Premier Gordon Campbell's former constituency campaign manager, seems to be on a tour of Washington State. Earlier, we reported Mr. Jiles is scheduled to speak at the state's 2007 Trade Week International Export Symposium about Olympic opportunities in his capacity as vice-president of The Progressive Group - the communications company founded by provincial Liberal backroom boy Patrick Kinsella. And now we've learned he'll be speaking to the Economic Development Association of Skagit County's about Canadian business opportunities. Busy boy!

Not to nitpick or anything - but we will. Because, thanks to some of our astute readers, we've found a few curiosities on Vancouver Quadra federal Liberal nomination candidate Cindy Grauer's Website. In a letter posted on that site, Ms. Grauer writes "I know Vancouver Quadra, I have lived here most of my life." But, in an email, she added "I do indeed live in Vancouver Centre…Granville Island…I was born, brought up, went to school and lived most of my life in Quadra."

Yesterday, Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced "that Canada's New Government intends to provide British Columbia with $199.3 million, as part of a new Canada ecoTrust to support provincial projects that will result in real reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and air pollutants." Those projects will include "providing clean electricity to remote rural areas now fuelled by dirty diesel, such as electrification of Highway 37." Funny that. Because the electrification of that highway will also benefit mining projects in the northwestern corner of the province - projects like the Mount Klappan...er...coal mine. Indeed, the Dogwood Initiative came out against that new power line last year, in part because it "would create a literal gold rush (and coal, copper, and coalbed methane rush) in the Stikine and Skeena watersheds, opening up the region for more mining schemes."

A star candidate is about to descend into Saanich-Gulf Islands. In an interview with Public Eye, Land Conservancy of BC co-founder Briony Penn, former host of the environmental magazine show Enviro/Mental on CHUM TV, confirmed she'll be running for the federal Liberal nomination in that riding. "The rumour is correct. I'm turning in my nomination papers. They're not in yet. But that's my job today. It's kind of time."

The Urban Development Institute - the principal lobby group for the province's real estate developers - says it's committed to promoting affordable housing. But promoting isn't the same thing as paying for that housing. And, based on a recent email from the group's Victoria chapter, you might think some institute members...er...resent footing the bill for such initiatives.

Here's a question some of our astute readers have been asking: will former federal Liberal leadership candidate Bob Rae's British Columbia campaign Mason Loh become involved in the Vancouver Quadra nomination race - throwing his considerable support behind someone like Joyce Murray, for example. The answer: "Not at this moment," responded Mr. Loh in an interview with Public Eye yesterday afternoon. But what about in the future? "I don't know." And does he intend to run for a nomination in the Lower Mainland himself? "I don't know yet. There's nothing in particular that I'm looking at yet," said Mr. Loh.

Your humble organ has often wondered about how the federal Liberals will market their leader, a Quebecois academic, in British Columbia. And, on Monday, the answer arrived in our mailbox. According to a black and white brochure entitled "Get to know Stephane Dion," the Saint-Laurent-Cartierville parliamentarian "is largely known as a former Environment Minister and Unity Minister. But he is much more than that." The brochure's back page then goes onto list all of his accomplishments in the fields of...er...the environment and unity - with the first three selling points promoting his federalist credentials.

Some more squibs from the Vancouver Quadra federal Liberal nomination race: former provincial cabinet minister Joyce Murray is scheduled to announce later today that her candidacy will be endorsed by Senator Larry Campbell. Meanwhile, we understand Senator Mobina Jaffer is backing competing candidate Cindy Grauer, a former member of the Canadian Radio Television and Telecommunications Commission.

Your humble organ has written at length about Lesley du Toit since she became children and family development's deputy minister. But how much does she make taking care of British Columbia's most vulnerable youth? Glad you asked. According to documentation requested from government by Public Eye, Ms. du Toit is presently making $207,900 each year - in part, thanks to changes over the summer that increased the maximum salary for line deputy ministers to $221,760. But that's only part of the consideration Ms. du Toit receives. She also has a $2,000 per month living allowance. Which pushes Ms. du Toit's total compensation up to $231,900. The following is a complete copy of that documentation.

The case of Dan Lessard - the Powell River paper mill worker who says he was left on the streets of Vancouver, with no way home, after undergoing heart surgery at St. Paul's Hospital - has attracted attention both in the legislature and on editorial pages of British Columbia's newspaper. For example, yesterday, one letter writer in The Province informed readers her sister, when she was medivaced from Cranbrook to Kelowna, "knew from the experiences of other Cranbrook residents that it was quite possible she would be discharged from Kelowna and be required to make her own way home. No one ensures that a patient who has been critically ill - and who would still feel somewhat weak - has the appropriate means of returning home." And who wrote that letter you wonder? Well, that would be Sonja Sanguinetti, who just so happens to be...wait for it...the former president of the provincial Liberals. Fancy that! The following is a complete copy of that letter.

Back in August 2005, we reported Mark Jiles, Premier Gordon Campbell's constituency campaign manager, was considering partnering up with Patrick Kinsella, arguably the most powerful Liberal backroom boy in the province. At the time, Mr. Jiles told Public Eye the two of them were considering how best to pursue 2010 Winter Olympic business prospects together. And it looks like that partnership has come to pass. Mr. Jiles is scheduled to speak at Washington State's 2007 Trade Week International Export Symposium about Olympic opportunities in his capacity as vice-president of The Progressive Group - Mr. Kinsella's company. His presentation is part of a lunch program sponsored by the Canadian consulate.

Rob Sinclair has phoned to let us know that Public Eye was "ahead of the curve." He's just been appointed the national campaign manager for the federal Greens. Most of Mr. Sinclair's political experience has involved working for candidates running for small-c conservative parties. Although, as we previously reported, he backed Belinda Stronach when she joined the federal Liberals. And he was a member of future Toronto Mayor David Miller's strategy committee in 2003.

The federal Greens may have found their next national campaign manager - and he has a rather fascinating political pedigree. Speaking with Public Eye this morning, Rob Sinclair said doesn't know yet whether he's been appointed to that post. "But I definitely said I was interested in the job. I understand the executive met on the weekend. And I don't know in terms of what exactly the latest on this is. I was basically one of the people who said I was interested in it." Mr. Sinclair's resume includes working as the election day chair for future Richmond Canadian Alliance MP Joe Peschisolido in 2000, future Brampton Centre Progressive Conservative MPP Linda Jeffrey in 2003 and future Conservative Newmarket-Aurora MP Belinda Stronach in 2004. He was also Ms. Stronach's voter contact chair when she ran for the Liberals in that riding in 2006.

Are you obsessed with government waste? Would you relish the thought of debating progressive pundit David Shreck on a weekly basis? Well, the Canadian Taxpayers Federation has the perfect position for you. Last week, the federation posted an advertisement on Jeff Gaulin's Job Board for a new British Columbia communications director. The reason: it seems the present job holder, Sara MacIntyre, is leaving the federation - effective March 28 - to become the public relations director at NaiKun Wind Development Inc. As some of our astute readers may know, NaiKun's president is Ray Castelli, former deputy chief of staff to then prime minister Kim Campbell.

It seems would-be parliamentarian Cindy Grauer's federal Liberal nomination campaign in Vancouver Quadra has attracted two prominent supporters. Ms. Grauer's campaign will soon announce that former senator Jack Austin and Vancouver park board commissioner Heather Holden are going to be co-chairing that campaign.

As our astute readers may be aware, it's somewhat unusual for deputy ministers to be out of country when the legislature is in session. So it will come as something of a surprise to some of readers - and not a surprise to others - that our good friend, children and family development deputy minister Lesley du Toit, will be in South Africa for the next three weeks or so. Now, in fairness, no one would suggest Ms. du Toit isn't committed to her job as the ministry's top bureaucrat - having earned a reputation for working long hours and sending emails late into the night. And the legislature is scheduled to take next week off. But estimates debate for children and family development is still pending. So one hopes she'll be returning in time to assist Minister Tom Christensen with preparations for that debate.

Remember that work environment survey the provincial government did last year? You know, the one where just 29 percent of employees gave their executives favourable reviews. Well, the public service agency is getting to check the civil service's temperature again, rolling out the questions for their next annual survey sometime in April. Which may explain why some bureaucrats have been seeing a lot more of their bosses as of late.

Earlier, we reported former British Columbia Marijuana Party general counsel and campaign manager Kirk Tousaw was considering running for the federal New Democrat nomination in Vancouver Quadra. But it looks like he's failed in that bid. One of our astute readers tell us University of British Columbia student Becca Coad beat Mr. Tousaw during yesterday's cranberry juice-fueled nomination meeting at St. James Community Square - 47 votes to 17, according to an unconfirmed count. Meanwhile, in related news, Burnaby-New Westminster Conservative candidate Ryan Warawa is reporting Yonah Martin won the Tory nomination in New Westminster-Coquitlam.

Do you remember Marc Dalton? Of course you do. He's the school teacher-librarian and former community church pastor who was the federal Conservative candidate in Burnaby-New Westminster during the last election. So, understandably, some Tories are wondering whether he's going to take another run at that nomination, competing against Royal Group Tapestry Realty Ltd. managing broker Sam Rakhra and Ryan Warawa. Well, go on wondering. Because Mr. Dalton hasn't yet returned two calls placed last week and over the weekend requesting comment. But his supporters apparently attempted to take over the local constituency association's executive on February 22. And that may be an indication he still has parliamentary ambitions.

Tomorrow morning, on Public Eye Radio, federal New Democrat national campaign coordinator Gerry Scott discusses his party's preparations for the coming election. British Columbia Green organizer Ben West will doing the same for his team. And Vancouver broadcasting legend David Berner revisits the subject of political correctness and his performance as the Jewish moneylender Shylock. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Bob Russell, Alex Tsakumis, 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 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

Earlier, we reported Vancouver-Burrard legislator Lorne Mayencourt's annual fundraiser has been scheduled for March 14. And there's some suspicions he may announce, following that event, whether he'll be running for the federal Conservatives in the next election. So, with that in mind, some of our readers might be interested to know John Reynolds - who co-chaired the national Tory campaign in the last election - has purchased a ticket for that fundraiser. Explained Mr. Reynolds, "I support the B.C. Liberal Party. I obviously support Lorne Mayencourt. And Lyall Knott - a lawyer with Clark Wilson - and myself are both going." But don't read too much into his attendance. "It's just a fundraising dinner for the Liberal Party," continued Mr. Reynolds. "And I wanted to support him and support them."

The federal Liberal nomination race in Victoria hasn't even officially got underway yet. But there already seems to be some problems at the starting line. In an email sent to friends and supporters last night, would-be nominee and Mulligan Tam Pearson Law Corp. partner Mike Mulligan alleged British Columbia campaign co-chair Bruce Young was looking to "install" former diplomat and senior federal bureaucrat Anne Park Shannon as the Liberal candidate in that riding. And he further alleged Mr. Young implied other options would be available to him. But, in an interview with Public Eye, Mr. Young says that's not the case.

Earlier this month, the Chilliwack Times's Paul Henderson reported a group calling themselves Citizens for Sustainable Health Care was handing out leaflets at a recent conversation on health regional public forum. And what is their interested in that discussion, you may wonder? Well, according to their Website, the group was established to give "ordinary citizens a voice in B.C.'s health care debate" - citizens who don't care who's providing their medical services as long as they're "provided 'free' at the point of delivery." And their principal orator's name is one that will recognizable to some of our New Westminster readers: Patrick O'Connor, who was Joyce Murray's constituency assistant when she was the city's MLA.

Greater Vancouver Transportation Authority chair Malcolm Brodie is convening a special meeting to address what some might see as a "perception of a conflict of interest" relating to property owned by Port Moody Mayor and TransLink director Joe Trasolini. In a statement released exclusively to Public Eye yesterday, Mr. Brodie said recommended measures "will include the exclusion of Director Trasolini from future board discussions and decisions relating to the (proposed) Evergreen Line project." Mr. Trasolini has denied any such conflict concerns exist. Mr. Brodie's statement was triggered by a Public Eye investigation that revealed Mayor Trasolini owns a $2.5 million property along the line's St. Johns Street segment - about 400 meters away from its proposed Buller Street station.

It's International Women's Day tomorrow. And we understand Equal Voice will be using the occasion to call upon federal party leaders to run more female candidates in the next election. And who's going to be part of that chorus you may wonder? Answer: former Progressive Conservative prime minister Kim Campbell, former Liberal cabinet minister Judy Erolo, New Democrat parliamentarian Audrey McLaughlin and Conservative Senator Pat Carney.

If Sam Rakhra wins the federal Conservative nomination in Burnaby-New Westminster, he well may go on to become an upstanding parliamentarian. But, before that happens, voters might want to know a bit more about Mr. Rakhra's business background. Up until 2004, the would-be MP had an unblemished record as the owner and managing broker of Royal Group Tapestry Realty Ltd. But, in April of that year, a Real Estate Council of British Columbia hearing committee found Mr. Rakhra had acted negligently by failing to adequately supervise one of his employees. As a result, the committee decided Mr. Rakhra would need to complete two remedial courses "as a condition of continued licensing." They also noted Mr. Rakhra voluntarily stepped aside as Tapestry's managing broker seven months earlier, while the matter was under investigation. As a result, the committee decided not to suspend his license any further.

Last month, the provincial New Democrats released a freedom of information request response showing children and family development deputy minister Lesley du Toit hadn't once mentioned Ted Hughes's British Columbia Children and Youth Review in any correspondence she sent between May 1, 2006 and December 8, 2006. But, in her latest missive, Ms. du Toit does, in fact, reference that review.

As our astute readers know, former provincial cabinet minister Joyce Murray is running for the federal Liberal nomination Vancouver Quadra. But, in an interview with Public Eye last Friday, Ms. Murray confirmed she still owes money to Gerry Lenoski, who was her campaign manager during the last election and is now a nomination hopeful in Burnaby-New Westminster. Ms. Murray explained that, when she became the Liberal candidate in New Westminster-Coquitlam on November 20, 2005, the constituency had "no riding association, no funds, no organization and so it was a standing start." As a result, her campaign was "counting on the election rebate funds as part of our election budget. And we assumed those rebates would come a lot sooner than they have."

The Campbell administration's new energy plan commits British Columbia to achieving electricity self-sufficiency by 2016, with 90 percent of our power coming from clean or renewable sources. But BC Hydro Corp. isn't the only one interested that power. On March 1, the California Public Utilities Commission granted the Pacific Gas and Electric Co. - the "authority to record up to $14 million in costs for external consultants to prepare a study to evaluate the feasability of obtaining wind-generated and other renewable electric power from various regions in British Columbia, Canada." Specifically, that study will address the "transmission costs and hurdles to the development of alternative routes which allow delivery of energy into California" and consider "the costs and benefits of various ownership alternatives and regulatory arrangements." The commission has also ruled Pacific Gas and Electric may apply to recover the costs of the study.

In January, Vancouver-Burrard provincial Liberal MLA Lorne Mayencourt mused about running for federal Conservatives in the next election. Almost two months later, Mr. Mayencourt has yet to announce whether he'll actually be joining Prime Minister Stephen Harper on the campaign trail. But one could be coming sooner rather than later. Mr. Mayencourt's annual fundraiser is scheduled to take place on March 14 at the Victoria Chinese Restaurant. So it would make some sense if the backbencher declared was to declare his intentions after that fundraiser.

Former provincial cabinet minister Joyce Murray seems to be getting quite serious about running for the federal Liberal nomination in Vancouver Quadra. According to an email sent out to friends and supporters, she and her husband Dirk Brinkman have already "decided to move back to my childhood neighbourhood of West Point Grey" - purchasing a house on West Broadway. The real estate listing for that house describes it as being "situated on one of Point Grey's most sought after tree lined streets on a 6400 sq ft lot." The "spacious 3962 sq ft family home" reportedly "oozes with charm and awaits your decorating and development ideas. Spacious main floor with hardwood, generous natural light and classic features incl. paneled Den, Potential Sumptuous Master Suite on the upper level. High Lower Level with Ground level entry." The asking price: $1,495,000. The following is an edited copy of the aforementioned email.

Provincial New Democrat energy, mines and petroleum resources critic John Horgan took a swipe at the Campbell administration's energy plan in the party's most recent newsletter. According to Mr. Horgan, "Like a lot of what this government has done, the energy plan was mostly a collection of vague assertions. It talked about conserving energy, which on its face is a good thing, but it contains no support for consumers who want to cut back on their electricity usage. And the initiatives that are actually new in the plan rely on technology that hasn't been tested." Continued Mr. Horgan, "What we got was a disappointment, and not a real plan at all." That's strong language - especially coming from a critic who said last week he'd "certainly give (the plan) a B, particularly because of the conservation initiatives." This, according to a report by The Canadian Press's Scott Sutherland. So what does Mr. Horgan have to say about the apparent contradiction between those two statements?

Federal Liberals will be converging on Vancouver Mayor Sam Sullivan's favourite hotel on March 16 for a pre-election meeting with British Columbia caucus members and campaign co-chairs Pam McDonald and Bruce Young. At that meeting, candidates, prospective candidates and their campaign managers will discuss the party's election readiness, as well as the new Made-in-BC agenda. The following is a complete copy of the agenda for that meeting, which will take place at the Opus Hotel.

The BC Energy Plan states the provincial government is "working every day to ensure" its energy and oil and gas resource management strategies include "First Nations interest, knowledge and values." In fact, according to Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources Minister Rich Neufeld, the plan was developed following more than 100 meetings with key stakeholders - including First Nations interests. But it seems that consultative process has been found somewhat wanting.

Earlier, a reader identifying themselves as Gurmant Grewal posted a comment about the recent federal Conservative nomination race in Newton-North Delta. Speaking with Public Eye, the former parliamentarian confirmed he did not, in fact, post that comment.

Get ready to drop your jaws ladies and gentlemen: Sandeep Pandher has won the federal Conservative nomination race in Newton-North Delta. Mr. Pandher's third ballot victory over Paul Brar came after competitor Heather Stilwell dropped off after receiving the lowest vote count on the first ballot followed by Gary Dhillon after the second. The following is an unconfirmed vote count for that race, which was held at the York Conference Centre's Crystal Ballroom.

Tomorrow morning, on Public Eye Radio, Owen Bird Law Corp. media lawyer Dan Burnett tells us tells us what you need to know about the laws and rulings affecting coverage of the legislature raid trial. Central Saanich Mayor Jack Mar shares his thoughts on how the capital regional district will address climate change. And First Nations Summit political executive member Dave Porter discusses the need for a First Nations energy policy. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Bob Russell, Alex Tsakumis, 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 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

Earlier, we exclusively reported federal Conservative nomination Sandeep Pandher once belonged to the Laurier Club - in addition to working for two Liberal parliamentarians. And now Public Eye has obtained a pre-authorized payment form showing an individual by the name of Sandeep Singh with the email address sandeep.pandher@gmail.com signed up to be a member of the Ontario Liberal Fund's automatic bank charge program. The form - which appears to have been printed following Premier Dalton McGuinty October 2003 election win - also indicates the individual authorized the provincial party to withdraw $20 a month from his bank account as part of that program. Mr. Pandher hasn't returned three phone calls from Public Eye placed earlier today inquiring as to whether he is the individual in question.

Former provincial cabinet minister Bill Reid told Surrey Electors Team executives yesterday won't be seeking another term as the civic party's executive director. Speaking with Public Eye, Mr. Reid said, "I served the year they asked me to. And there's a re-appointment due at the annual general meeting - which is scheduled for sometime in the next four or five weeks. And what they asked me to do and accomplish in the year we've done. And so I'm just stepping aside to let someone else take on that role. And they have an executive to appoint in the coming year. And I intend to probably be part of that." Mr. Reid said it's his understanding electors team president Scott Nicoll will also be stepping down. "He's just served notice that he also doesn't have the time to give it in the coming year. So he's put them on notice saying, 'Move one of your executives up into that position. Because I won't be able to do it in the coming year.'"

Former federal Conservative Vancouver East constituency association president D.J. Lawrence has taken a dim view of the Sullivan administration's decision to fund the hiring of 17 new cops rather than the 65 requested by the Vancouver Police Department. In an email to friends and associations, Mr. Lawrence writes, "although they support law enforcement better than COPE and VISION, this is not the NPA I worked and voted for." But Non-Partisan Association caucus coordinator George Higgins - who has worked with Mr. Lawrence in the past - was quick to reply to those criticisms.

Non-Partisan Association vice-president Allen Langdon appears to have once again been using his email address at 2010 LegaciesNow for partisan purposes. Mr. Langdon, who was hired as the government-funded organization's Spirit of BC Committees director back in August, has sent several emails from that address discussing association activities - with three time-stamped during work hours. For example, on February 13 at 10:41, Mr. Langdon asked fellow board member David Choi the status of ticket sales for a civic party fundraiser. And, on January 29 at 4:10, he informed executive members that notices for two upcoming association events would be distributed shortly. Of course, that's not especially controversial content. But Mr. Langdon's email address and salary are being paid for by taxpayers. After all, LegaciesNow has received $130 million from the Campbell administration to "develop sustainable legacies" in the areas of "sport and recreation, arts, literacy and volunteerism."