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.

Mass Rally in Delta

On Saturday March 31, join the mass rally in Delta to show your support for those fighting this Frankenstein project South of the Fraser!

•for Sustainable Transportation •for Wildlife Protection •for Agricultural Protection •for Neighbourhood Preservation •for Democratic Process

2–5 PM

East Delta Community Hall
10379 Ladner Trunk Road, Delta
(Between Highway 99 and Burns Bog)

Featuring:

Raging Grannies
Ned Jacobs, Eagleridge Defender
Rafe Mair, Editorialist
Joe Foy, Wilderness Committee
Gord Price, Livable Region Coalition
Donna Passmore, Gateway 30 Network
Adriane Carr, Green Party of Canada
David Chudnovsky, NDP Transportation Critic
Jim Houlahan, CAW local 111 (Bus Drivers)

Craig is organizing a bike ride to the rally, meeting at Grandview Park at 11 am -- email him for details.

Grandview Woodland Area Council is coordinating a motor caravan to the rally -- meet at Grandview Park at 12:30 PM this Saturday. If you need a ride or can offer space in a vehicle, please email Mike or call 604-876-6273.

If people want to make placards for the rally and bring them to Grandview Park to take to the rally, that would be great! Lets show some East Van solidarity with people South of the Fraser who have such poor public transit. We are all concerned about the health and sustainability of our valley that is threatened by the Gateway Project.

Rideshares are being organized from the North Shore, East Vancouver, New Westminster, Kitsilano, South Delta/Ladner/Tsawwassen (call 943-6406), and White Rock/South Surrey , There are folks coming from Langley, Abbotsford and Chilliwack. If you have/need ride sharing arrangements from your community, please email Donna .

You can get there by taking the 351 Crescent Beach bus from Burrard Stn, it is a 46-min ride plus 3-min. connecting bus from there. BUT, there will be a shuttle (thanks to the Livable Region Coalition) from the 351 bus drop drop off to the Hall.The C76 leaves Ladner Exchange once an hour at :30 and leaves Scottsdale Mall once an hour at :50. The bus stops right at the hall going each direction.

Check www.translink.bc.ca for schedules.

For more info about the rally email Donna .

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.

In an exclusive interview with Public Eye, Mr. Osdoba explained, "I don't want to get too much into the details of what happened" - since, at the time of his departure, he was already in the process of moving on to become managing director of the Canada Carbon Trust. "So there was a lot of overlap and transition. And I think that overlap and transition got in the middle of making a simple, easy exit with the city."

"They had some issues they wanted to talk to me about," continued Mr. Osdoba. "And I was offering a resignation. And I think that's still being clarified what that's going to look like."

And did that exit having anything to do with differences over the city's current sustainability policies? "We're all trying to do the same thing," responded Mr. Osdoba. "Part of my job is to bring change to the city. And that's never an easy task. And I think that's probably enough said on the topic. I would prefer we focus on the positive opportunities. Because the city is pretty committed to sustainability. And they're going to be able to attract some real good quality people to replace me and some other staff who left."

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."

TransLink chair Malcolm Brodie later echoed Mr. Trasolini's comments, saying "He's agreed voluntarily that he won't participate in any board or committee discussions or decision on the line...That is what he has voluntarily agreed to do. And I think it's the right thing."

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.

As part of their compensation plan, deputy ministers will have their annual pay docked by five percent unless they meet eight key performance targets. Among them: increasing the number of new employees who come from outside government "with a focus on under 30s."

In an interview with Public Eye, community services communications manager Marc Black explained, "We have an obligation to sustain service to British Columbians. And every effort needs to expand our reach into the larger labour market. We're short younger workers. Under 30s represent about a quarter of the provincial labour force but less than seven percent of the public sector." The following is a complete copy of those targets.

***

Executive Compensation Plan - FINAL. Holdback Criteria

Measure

1. The percentage of employees who move to your ministry.
2. The use of professional consultants.
3. The percentage of staff who received an annual performance review.
4. The percentage of new (external) hires into the ministry with a focus on under 30s.
5. The ministry's rating on employee engagement.
6. The government's rating on employee engagement.
7. The ministry's rating on an executive level driver from the work environment survey: "Executives in my organization provide clear direction for the future".
8. Innovation of the public service.

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."

Continued Mr. Nijjar, "I'm not saying the NPA is always doing the right thing. And I'm not saying they're the greatest party in the world. But the NPA is the only reasonable solution for us to move forward as a city. So it's my job to make sure, for my family, that that happens."

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.

Operating Expenses/Full-Time Equivalents for Deputy Ministers Earning $207,900

Lorne Brownsey (aboriginal relations and reconciliation) $55,160,000/179
Robin Ciceri (small business and revenue) $59,964,000/891
Emery Dosdall (education) $5,494,380,000/322
John Dyble (transportation) $881,847,000/1,449
James Gorman (public service agency) $12,233,000/363
Doug Konkin (forests and range) $730,080,000/3,698
Cairine MacDonald (employment and income assistance) $1,479,528,000/1,973
David Morhart (solicitor general) $603,385,000/2,617
Bruce Okabe (tourism, sport and the arts) $129,548,000/166
Larry Pedersen (agriculture and lands) $270,295,000/820
Moura Quayle (advanced education) $2,151,076,000/228
Greg Reimer (energy, mines and petroleum resources) $77,459,000/315
Chris Trumpy (environment) $215,862,000/1,444
Lori Wanamaker (labour and citizesn' services) $97,507,000/2,195
Sheila Wynn (community services) $261,575,000/203

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."

That allowance means Ms. du Toit shouldn't have had much trouble finding lodging in Victoria. For example, Duttons & Co. Real Estate Ltd. presently offers a fully-furnished two bedroom suite in the "much desired" Songhees neighbourhood for $1,645 per month. For those who prefer downtown living, a one bedroom apartment - located in a "distinct character building" next to Market Square - can be had for $1,795. And, for $95 less, Duttons offers a home at The Reef, one of the newest developments in James Bay.

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.

Deputy Minister Salaries

Annette Antoniak (BC Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games secretariat) $157,500 to $188,842
Lorne Brownsey (aboriginal relations and reconciliation) $180,000 to $207,900
Robin Ciceri (small business and revenue) $180,000 to $207,900
Emery Dosdall (education) $185,000 to $207,900
Lesley du Toit (children and family development) $180,000 to $207900
John Dyble (transportation) $180,000 to $207,900
Don Fast (economic development) $160,000 to $184,800
James Gorman (public service agency) $180,000 to $207,000
Virginia Greene (intergovernmental relations secretariat) $180,000 to $198,000
Dana Hayden (strategic policy) $198,000 to $228,690
Doug Konkin (forests and range) $180,000 to $207,900
Gord Macatee (health) $195,000 to $221,760
Cairine MacDonald (employment and income assistance) $180,000 to $207,900
David Morhart (solicitor general) $180,000 to $207,900
Linda Morris (public affairs bureau) $180,000 to $198,000
Bruce Okabe (tourism, sport and the arts) $180,000 to $207,900
Larry Pedersen (agriculture and lands) $180,000 to $207,900
Moura Quayle (advanced education) $180,000 to $207,900
Greg Reimer (energy, mines and petroleum resources) $180,000 to $207,900
Allan Seckel (attorney general) $185,000 to $221,760
Chris Trumpy (environment) $185,000 to $207,900
Tamara Vrooman (finance) $185,000 to $221,760
Lori Wanamaker (labour and citizens' services) $180,000 to $207,900
Sheila Wynn (community services) $180,000 to $207,900

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.

I am writing to inform you that I will be withdrawing from the nomination contest in Saanich Gulf Islands. When I made the commitment to run and undertook my contract in Pakistan, I was the only candidate in the race and no nomination date was set. That changed quickly as the election rhetoric from Stephen Harper heated up, another candidate entered the race, and a nomination date was set. Initially, I felt that it would be possible to contest the nomination and to fulfill my contract obligations here. It has become clear to me that I cannot do justice to both and that it would be unfair to ask my supporters to continue the campaign in my absence.

As Liberals our primary task must be to defeat Gary Lunn and to elect a majority Liberal government under the leadership of Stephane Dion. We must go into the next election united in our purpose behind a credible candidate, and I am confident that Briony Penn is such a candidate. I wish her the best of luck in the campaign and pledge my support.

I want to thank all of the members who worked so hard in support of my campaign and all of the members who pledged their support for me. I appreciate very much the confidence that you expressed and the encouragement that you provided. We need now to focus on preparing for the election that Stephen Harper seems so desperately to want and to move forward united in our purpose to elect a Liberal Member of Parliament in Saanich Gulf Islands.

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.

From: Catherine Evans
Sent: March 15, 2007 1:56 PM
Subject: Catherine Evans Quadra Nomination Campaign

Media Release

For immediate release

March 15, 2007

Statement from Catherine Evans

(Vancouver) Today, Catherine Evans became an official candidate for the Liberal Party Nomination in Quadra.

"I am committed to running a competitive campaign against long-time Liberal insiders Joyce Murray and Cindy Grauer. I believe the Liberal Party of Canada is in a process of renewal and an important part of that process is nominating candidates who are firmly planted in their communities and have been active in the issues constituents care about.

My campaign is in full swing and I am inspired by the number of volunteers who come forward each day. Many Quadra residents know me from my commitment to public education, housing, issues affecting seniors and the experience of new immigrants. They know too that I listen and care. I have a proven track record of finding solutions when status quo isn’t working."

On Friday, March 16 Catherine is hosting a reception at the Kerrisdale Community Centre from 6pm - 8pm. BC Entertainment Hall of Fame musicians Bill Sample and Tom Keenlyside will provide musical entertainment.

-30-

For more information contact:

Joe Mergens
Campaign Co-chair,
Catherine Evans Campaign

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.

Mr. Grant then added, "We've run a process where the grassroots are definitely involved in what happens with choosing candidates and helping to get them nominated. We value their participation and rely on them for helping us find candidates."

Moving along, Mr. Peterson also states the association needs "an up-to-date, accurate membership list provided to us weekly. We also require a list of BC Builders and a financial statement generated monthly - not just when we ask for it. This is too inconsistent to create a financial plan for the election. We realize that there is a transition period after the National Convention, but if we are to makeg ains in Langley we can’t wait. We need the information now...But if we don’t see some improvement soon, I fear we are going to lose members out of frustration."

In response to those complaints Mr. Grant said, "Information, when requested, is distributed to all riding presidents in a timely manner. If they ask for a membership list or a financial statement they get that list in the same day. And that's a part of the service this office provides. And we've been very good at it too." That being said, Mr. Grant added "I'm glad that we have an active riding association in Langley that's passionate about their riding and finding a candidate." The following is a complete copy of the aforementioned email.

***

From: AL peterson
Sent: Wednesday, March 14, 2007 6:11 PM

The Langley EDA is writing this letter to express our frustration in obtaining important information, about our EDA, from the Provincial and National offices.

With an election fast approaching, we need an up-to-date, accurate membership list provided to us weekly. We also require a list of BC Builders and a financial statement generated monthly - not just when we ask for it. This is too inconsistent to create a financial plan for the election. We realize that there is a transition period after the National Convention, but if we are to make gains in Langley we can’t wait. We need the information now.

When we sign up new members, we encourage them to join the BC Builders program - it being an easy and consistent fundraiser for the EDA. We have signed up for the Managelect Pilot Program, but we fear the information won’t be up-to-date.

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.

We also disagree that the Provincial constitutions should have more power than the National constitution. There is no point in having a National constitution if the Provincial versions have the final say.

We are long time, dedicated Liberals serving on the Langley EDA. But if we don’t see some improvement soon, I fear we are going to lose members out of frustration. We appreciate all of the long hours and hard work the people in the Provincial and National offices have put in over the last several months. But things are moving too slowly.

Our primary goal is to win the election in Langley, and we need all the help we can get to achieve this objective. First and foremost, we need the ability to access our membership list on a timely basis so that we can track new members and encourage them to help during the election. Secondly, we need an accurate financial statement so we know how much we have and how much we need to raise in order to conduct a successful campaign.

We await your earliest reply. Thank-you

Yours truly,

Al Peterson, President

Langley Electoral District Association.

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."

Mr. Dalton then mentions some of those running for the board are neutral, while "others might be opposed to me" - adding that he'll be sending out a list of preferred candidates. But he asks his supporters to "KEEP (the) LIST HIDDEN UNTIL YOU NEED TO USE IT." And, "when you print it, please make sure that my name or email address is not on it when you bring the paper to the meeting. You may want to cut it so that it is small. Please don't lose possession of the list...God bless Marc."

So what's the reason for all this secrecy? Reached at Pitt Meadows Elementary School, Mr. Dalton explained it's just part "internal workings" of federal, provincial and even union politics. "And it's not for general consumption."

As for why he wanted his supporters on the board, Dalton explained, "My objective is to build a strong board…I had a lot of volunteers in the last campaign who were very active. I wanted to see them on (the board) to basically build a foundation for the next election. To build a team. And that's really important to me. The election readiness begins now."

Mr. Dalton also rejected the notion that he took over the board, adding "It wasn't like we forced our people in there. Everyone was acclaimed." And he said his activities don't have anything to do with plans to run again for the Conservative nomination in Burnaby-New Westminster. "As the candidate of record, I'm looking to build a strong team," explained Mr. Dalton. The following is a reformatted and edited copy of the text of that email.

***

CONFIDENTIAL - Do not bring this email to the meeting - CONFIDENTIAL

Thank-you once again for being willing to put your name up for the board of directors. 30 directors and 3 associate directors can be voted in. You are one of 15 hopeful directors and 2 associate directors. This is a bare majority, so your presence is very important. There are two parts to the AGM.

PART ONE

In the first, the current president will speak and give a summary of the year. Afterwards, a vote for a new board of directors will be held. Volunteer to put your name on the list even if it goes beyond 30 names - 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. Make sure that everyone in category one gets their name on the list. Nominate if necessary.

Vote for everyone in category 1 (bold) - these people are letting their names stand for nomination.

Vote for the associate directors (Bold) - the McLeans and Nestor S (he is the financial agent though I don't know if he is a supporter).

Vote for category 2 people (italics) if they are on the list (there is no need to nominate them) - some have been on the board for a while. Some are neutral others and others might be opposed to me.

Finally - for the remaining positions, vote for people who are actually at the meeting who want to be on.

If ballots need to be counted, nominate someone from category one to assist with counting.

PART TWO

There is a brief meeting afterwards to vote for the executive:

Please vote for SENNA for President

2 Vice President positions, in order of preference: George Norton, Alain Musende, Mike Redmond

Secretary - Shirley McLean

Financial agent - Nestor Slywka

Nominate and vote for someone in category one to count votes. Please don't bring this sheet to the meeting. You may need to bring the list of names to know who to vote for, but KEEP LIST HIDDEN UNTIL YOU NEED TO USE IT. There is a possibility that everyone is acclaimed in PART ONE, but this is not certain. A secret ballot will likely be necessary for voting for the Executive.

I am sending the list in another email. I will embed the names in an email for those who are unable to download the attachment. When you print it, please make sure that my name or email address is not on it when you bring the paper to the meeting. You may want to cut it so that it is small. Please don't lose possession of the list. I value your involvement. I hope I have not made things too complicated. Please email me or phone me at 312.9833 if you have questions. Try and arrive just prior to 7 pm with identification. If your name is not on the membership list, see Shirley McLean (Secretary) - she will have confirmation receipts for different ones of you. Once you have received the other email, please email me again confirming that you have received it and that you understand the instructions.

God bless

Marc

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 Pat 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."

Meanwhile, on her endorsements page, Taylor H.T. Briggs, her youth co-chair, is listed as having been the "Gerard Kennedy BC Campaign Youth Co-Chair." But, in fact, the youth co-chairs for the Kennedy campaign were Braeden Caley, Shelby Caravetta and Scott Ross. Mr. Briggs was the Kennedy campaign's University of British Columbia youth co-chair. Ms. Grauer has promised to correct the error.

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."

But why not run for the Greens under Elizabeth May, we wondered? "I think most of the people in the riding I've talked to think the Liberals have the best chance under Stephane Dion. They think he's got the ability to engage and unite people," responded Ms. Penn. "And I think he's sincere and that he understands where a lot of the progressives are right now, which is we can't wait around any more. We can't wait for electoral reform. We've got a leader who's clearly showing a lot of leadership in terms of putting out the hand toward women, environmental issues, rebuilding the party and taking a lot of risks. And I can't believe the support I've got."

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.

"Why Should Developers Pay For Affordable Housing?" asks the email, which promotes an upcoming luncheon about the subject. "We quickly checked the Ten Commandments, and still there is no heavenly requirement that developers either include affordable housing in their projects or provide cash in lieu."