May 2007 Archives

The premier's office is refusing to answer detailed questions about their new top climate change bureaucrat's background. Graham Whitmarsh, who briefly served as the premier's chief carbon trading advisor before being named head of the premier's climate action secretariat earlier this week, has an extensive background in the airline information technology and aerospace industries. But Internet and newspaper database searches (LexisNexis and CanWest Global Communications Corp. archives) show no reference to him being involved in any carbon trading or climate change work.

It seems British Columbia's aboriginal people aren't the only ones with a rich oral history. Back in March, Public Eye requested access under the province's freedom of information legislation to the "meeting minutes and agendas" of deputy ministers' council since September 1, 2006. But, according to a letter sent by the ministry of finance's information planning and services branch on April 17, "the office of the premier has no records that fall within the scope of your request." So does this mean the council doesn't keep a record of its deliberations? Well, the premier's communications director Dale Steeves has repeatedly refused to answer that question, instead suggesting we take the issue up with information and privacy commissioner David Loukidelis. But New Democrat leader Carole James was more than happy to comment, saying, “If the government is really keeping absolutely no records (of deputy ministers' council), it really shows the lengths that government will go to to avoid answering questions.”

One of British Columbia's leading tourism operators picked up Tourism, Sports and the Arts Minister Stan Hagen's bill at a weekend arts festival earlier this month, Public Eye has learned. In an interview, Minister Hagen confirmed the cost of his attendance at Painters at Painter's Celebration of Art - which included overnight accommodations but excluded meals - was picked up by Oak Bay Marine Group Ltd. The company runs the annual celebration out of Painter's Lodge in Campbell River and April Point Resort and Spa on Quadra Island - two of Oak Bay Marine's seven British Columbia-based resorts.

The provincial New Democrat's relationship with the United Steelworkers in British Columbia took a bit of a nose dive during the 2005 de-affiliation debacle - which saw some party leaders try to reduce the influence of big labour at their conventions. So some might find it a bit surprising to see the union's international president Leo Gerard headlining the first fundraiser for the New Democrat's Building for the Future Fund - which has been established to bankroll rennovations to the party's new headquarters. As some of our astute readers may know, the party moved into that headquarters - dubbed the Dave and Shirley Barrett Centre - on March 15.

The UBC Properties Trust is a private company, owned by the University of British Columbia, “with a mission to acquire, develop and manage real estate assets" on behalf of the post-secondary institution. But it seems the company's activities aren't just benefiting the university and, by extension, its students. They're also benefiting some of the province's politicians.

Last year, the Kitamaat Port Development Society was established to develop a plan for the construction of a break bulk port in the northern community - receiving $200,000 in funding from the provincial government. But is the society, which has additional private sector backing, also involved in it's president's campaign to be re-elected chief councillor of the local Haisla First Nation? The reason we ask: a notice on his campaign Website states it was "funded and developed solely by the friends and supporters of Steve Wilson, including the Kitamaat Port Development Society…" Speaking with Public Eye, society executive director Roger Harris said he is a Wilson supporter. "But we don't fund that kind of stuff. And I write the cheques. And I haven't written any."

Last month, British Columbia Ferry Services Inc. chief executive officer David Hahn sent New Democrat critic Gary Coons a temperamental email. This, after the North Coast legislator called the recent refit of the North Adventure a "major embarrassment" for the company. In an interview with Public Eye, ferry services public affairs executive director Mark Stefanson said it was "unprecedented" for Mr. Hahn to personally react to such new releases. But it seems there is at least one precedent.

Last week, the provincial Liberals launched their pre-election fundraising drive by releasing a video highlighting the Campbell administration's accomplishments in three areas: the economy, the environment and aboriginal relations. But we find it somewhat curious the advertisement doesn't mention healthcare - even though the the Liberal's commitment to "initiate a province-wide conversation" on health was the centrepiece for their February 2006 speech from the throne; and despite the fact the latest Mustel Research Group Ltd. poll shows health as the top issue of concern for 24 percent of British Columbians. By comparison, the environment and the economy are the top issues of concern for just 14 and 10 percent of British Columbians, respectively. Funny that.

2010 LegaciesNow will soon be leaving one behind in Victoria - although not the kind of legacy you may think. The provincial government-bankrolled non-profit society will be shuttering its capital city office over the course of the summer. "It's a consolidation of our operations into one office," explained society communications director Karen McDonald. " It effects seven staff members. One is a contractor. Three are term employees whose terms are up at the end of June. And the other three will remain employeed with us. And we're making arranagements to accomodate them. All of the staff were offered the opportunity to relocate to the Vancouver office."

The federal Liberal Vancouver-Quadra constituency association seems to have placed a priority of family values. Last Thursday, at the Kerrisdale Community Centre, association members acclaimed a new executive. As expected, Vancouver-Quadra candidate Joyce Murray's campaign chair Eugene Hodgson took over from Craig Munroe as president. Ms. Murray's husband Dirk Brinkman is now the association's policy chair. And husband and wife team Demitri and Jessica Douzenis were named organization chair and secretary, respectively. The following is a list of the senir members of that executive, which includes Catherine Evans. Ms. Evans ran against Ms. Murray during Vancouver-Quadra's recent nomination race.

As some of our astute readers may know, Ian Bailey, The Province's politics reporter, departed the tabloid on the week of April 16 to join The Globe and Mail's British Columbia bureau. So who's going to replacing Mr. Bailey on that beat, you may wonder? Well, the answer arrived at the press gallery today in the form of John Bermingham, who is best known for his coverage of civic issues for The Province.

Last month, The Vancouver Sun's Francis Bula reported the city's former mayors "say they can't remember hiring a consultant or lobbyist to help them negotiate with the provincial or federal governments as Vancouver Mayor Sam Sullivan has. And current representatives of cities from Surrey to Calgary to Toronto say they would never hire a lobbyist." This, in response to news the premier's special advisor Ken Dobell had registered to lobby the provincial and federal governments on behalf of the Sullivan administration. But it seems Mr. Dobell isn't the only one making sure Ottawa is paying attention to Vancouver's concerns. On May 15, Borden Ladner Gervais LLP partner Bruce Sinclair registered to lobby for "amendments to the Income Tax Act to facilitate and encourage private sector participation in the development and construction of supportive housing."

Last week, "the lawyer for Premier Gordon Campbell's special adviser accused the NDP of engaging in 'gutter politics' by filing official complaints that say Ken Dobell has violated the federal Lobbyists Registration Act." This, according to The Globe and Mail's Ian Bailey. But Mr. Dobell isn't Farris, Vaughan, Wills & Murphy LLP partner George Macintosh only political client. The civil litigator recently filed a statement of defence on behalf of Vancouver councillor Peter Ladner, who is alleged to have Downtown Eastside Residents Association director Kim Kerr And he's also representing former Pilothouse Public Affairs Inc. lobbyist Erik Bornman in another case featuring what some might describe as "gutter politics."

Christopher Ian "Wonder Boy" Bennett has been described as "a thought leader in political communications, PR and electoral strategy." But, despite being appointed leader of the provincial Greens on April 21, Mr. Bennett doesn't appear to have been doing much thinking about British Columbian politics. The reason: the New Democrat's decision to accept part of the independent commission to review MLA compensation's controversial recommendations has opened up an opportunity for the Greens to distinguish themselves by opposing the pay-and-pension package in its entirety. But it's been 27 days since that package was first announced. And the Greens have yet to put out a news release commenting on the controversy. Although, last month, they did urge the Campbell administration to "stimulate and support local farming economies throughout BC." Which is nice.

Earlier, we opined the New Democrats abrogated their responsibility as British Columbia's opposition by repeatedly refusing to comment on flaws in the MLA pay-and-pension panel process. But party finance critic Bruce Ralston has taken that hear no evil, see no evil approach even further. During second reading debate of the legislation enacting those recommendations, the Surrey-Whalley legislator referred to the panel as a "reasonable commission." Of course, we're still puzzling over what aspect of the commission Mr. Ralston thinks is reasonable - the fact the panel made its recommendation in the absence of one member? Or perhaps he think it's reasonable the commission's membership was limited to a corporate chief executive officer, a former judge and a business professor? Inquiring minds want to know.

The independent commission to review MLA compensation has been criticized for not being representative of ordinary British Columbians. The reason: the three-person panel include University of British Columbia business professor Sandra Robinson, former British Columbia and Yukon Territory Appeals Court justice Joe Wood and Sue Paish, who has been described by the press as a lawyer. But, come June 1, Ms. Paish - who chaired the panel - will be a whole lot more than a member of the bar. That's when she takes over as the chief executive officer of Pharmasave Drugs (National) Ltd. - the country's third largest pharmacy operator. And how much will she be making, you may wonder? Well, according to Business in Vancouver's Glen Korstrom, Ms. Paish willl "stay in the six-figure income bracket - to the relief of one of her three teenaged daughters, who asked her if the family might have to go on welfare following her Pharmasave decision."

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, Strategic Communications Inc. president and chief executive officer Bob Penner shares his thoughts on the provincial Liberal's pre-election fundraising drive. Freedom of information advocates Darrell Evans and Stanley Tromp discuss why British Columbians should be demanding more openness from their government. And George Gibault from Sewage Solutions Now tells us why Victoria's sewage treatment problem should have a public-private solution. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Alex Tsakumis, Allan Warnke and Brad Zubyk - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 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 told you former Vancouver board of variance chair Terry Martin was being promoted as a possible Coalition of Progressive Electors executive candidate. And, sure enough, he's a member of the Labour for COPE slate, which will be running against the Group of Seven during tomorrow afternoon's coalition board elections. Other notables on the slate - which was first reported by Vancouver Kid - include former councillor Tim Louis, his partner Penny Parry and Headtax Families of Canada co-chair Sid Tan. The Sullivan administration recently cancelled the funding for Mr. Tan's position as the Downtown Eastside Residents Association's seniors coordinator. The following is a complete copy of that slate.

It was Public Eye's third birthday on Sunday. So, in celebration, your humble organ is going to be taking it easy over the next few days - catching up on some research, responding to overdue emails, filing freedom of information requests and...most importantly...napping. That means posting will be somewhat sporadic until next week (although we'll do our best to cover the Coalition of Progressive Electors executive elections). In the meantime, here's some recommended reading: former provincial New Democrat ministerial assistant and candidate Richard Tones has dipped his pinky toe into the Internet, starting up a blog commenting on British Columbia politics. So enjoy.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, Vancouver Elementary School Teachers' Association president Glen Hansman and former Vancouver school trustee Jane Bouey discuss why the provincial Liberals voted down a legislative amendment that would helped protect students from homophobic bullying. Former Liberal legislator Rod Visser joins us to discuss the New Democrat's controversial sustainable aquaculture report. And former New Democrat leadership candidate Mehdi Najari will be discussing the MLA pay-and-pension panel debacle. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Alex Tsakumis, Allan Warnke and Brad Zubyk - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 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.

Last week, the New Democrats abrogated their responsibility as British Columbia's opposition by repeatedly refusing to comment on flaws in the MLA pay-and-pension panel process. But it seems panel chair Sue Paish doesn't feel any reluctance whatsoever when it comes commenting on the New Democrat's response to the commission's recommendations. In an interview with The Globe and Mail's Ian Bailey, Ms. Paish "'decried the political 'gamesmanship' that has prompted New Democrats to protest against the plan by donating their raises to charity." Continued the chair, "From the perspective of saving the taxpayers dollars, if that's a concern, the members should be contributing to charity the value of their pensions" - rather than participating in the retirement package.

Last week, we reported a "group of seven" candidates would be running for the Coalition of Progressive Electors executive. As expected, some see supporting that slate as a "revolt of sorts against the (coalition's) present leadership" - this, according to The Georgia Straight's Carlito Pablo. But who else will be in that race, you may wonder? Well, in an interview with Public Eye, Seve Oaks Magazine founding editor Charles Demers confirmed he's "seriously considering" putting his name forward to be the coalition's membership secretary. And former board of variance chair Terry Martin is also being promoted as a possible executive candidate.

Back in March, The Georgia Straight's Matthew Burrows quoted Hospital Employees' Union president Fred Muzin as saying his union wouldn't fund the Coalition of Progressive Electors or Vision Vancouver, "until they can heal their rift." And, when asked whether the Canadian Union of Public Employees would be endorsing either civic party through funding, British Columbia president Barry O'Neil said, "No." But it seems some unionists are less than pleased with that policy. In an email sent out late last night, select labour leaders called on their brothers and sisters to end the "boycott of COPE and Vision" and, presumably, back the coalition. The following is a complete copy of that email.

Campbell administration fixture Andy Orr - who has been the executive director of the public affairs bureau since 2001 - is leaving the provincial government. He's joining Kimanda Jarzebiak's firm Ascent Public Affairs Inc. as its vice-president, taking over from Rozi Dobreci. Mr. Orr, whose resignation takes effect today, had been the principal communications conduit between the administration and the press gallery. So it's hard to overstate the significance of his departure.

Today, provincial New Democrat leader Carole James announced that, if the Liberals succeed in pushing through the MLA compensation commission's controversial recommendations, her caucus won't be opting-out of the new pay-and-pension package. Instead, they'll "participate" in the pension plan while donating "back the pay increase...to charity, to community organizations that have been hurt by this government." Not exactly a proud moment for Ms. James, who maintains her party will vote against legislation acting on the commission's recommendations. But the Campbell administration - who have, on at least one occassion, appeared almost statesmen-like supporting the commission - seem to have forgetten the old adage that, if the opposition is falling, it's the government's duty to get out of the way (or something like that).

Those who follow the goings on a children and family development have often wondered what the relationship is like between deputy minister Lesley du Toit and child and youth representative Mary Ellen Turpel-Lafond. Well, there's been lots of idle gossip about that question as of late. But, what we do know for sure is that, last year, "agreement was made between the DM and the Representative that they will meet once very (sic) four months." This, according to confidential leadership team meeting minutes obtained by Public Eye via a freedom of information request. The following is the relevant portion of that document.

As our astute readers may know, the provincial New Democrats have yet to say whether they oppose the Liberal's Gateway Program. Of course, we shouldn't be so impatient. After all, Premier Gordon Campbell only announced that program back in January, er, 2006. Nevertheless, the party's transportation critic David Chudnovsky recently attended a demonstration against the controversial infrastructure program. And, now, it's been brought to our attention the New Democrats's agriculture committee has joined The Gateway 30 Network, an alliance of "over 40 community groups that are working together to point out the flaws in the Gateway Program and offer alternatives that will keep the Lower Mainland the most liveable region in Canada." Funny that.

Yesterday, we reported the federal Greens are "building a team of volunteers to help write letters to the editor, make calls to phone-in radio shows, email comments to TV news programs and write comments on websites and blogs." But it seems work is already underway to correct the "twisted facts" and "untruths" told by the nation's headline writers and, er, anyone else who takes a swipe at party leader Elizabeth May. Last week, press secretary Camille Labchuk encouraged party members to send letters to the editor responding to columns written by The Toronto Sun's Michael Coren and the Edmonton Journal's Lorne Gunter. Of course, we're confident those letter writers self-identified themselves as Green members. The following is a complete copy of the aforementioned emails.

This Friday, former independent council candidate Jamie Lee Hamilton will be hosting an "informal get-together" for Tim Louis at the Pendera Building on West Pender Street. And what's the reason for this get-together, you may wonder? Well, in an email sent to friends and associates, Ms. Hamilton writes the former Coalition of Progressive Electors councillor "is wanting to bring a special message about his future plans." Whatever could that mean? The following is a complete copy of that email.

Pity poor Elizabeth May! According to her party's most recent newsletter, "from time to time, Greens are unfairly attacked in the media. Facts can be misunderstood or twisted, statements may be taken out of context and untruths may be spoken. Whatever the case may be, it's important that we set the record straight by responding right away. Some recent examples were the May-Dion accord, Elizabeth's decision to run in Central Nova and the abortion controversy." As a result, the Greens are "building a team of volunteers to help write letters to the editor, make calls to phone-in radio shows, email comments to TV news programs and write comments on websites and blogs." Of course, Ms. May bears no responsibility whatsoever for any of the recent controversies that have dogged the Greens. It's all the fault of headline writers, right?

Earlier, in an exclusive interview with Public Eye, independent commission to review MLA compensation member Sandra Robinson stated the three-person pay-and-pension panel changed its recommendations while she was in Europe - many of which she "doesn't agree with." Asked whether he had any concerns about those revelations, Premier Gordon Campbell - who picked the panel - told Public Eye yesterday, "I'm not going to talk about the processes the committee went through. They're all good quality individuals who did their best to present a report in the public's interest. That's what we asked them to do. And that's what they did.”

The independent commission to review MLA compensation has been a source of much controversy since its recommendations were made public. But that controversy might have been avoided if members of the legislature had acted on C.J. Connaghan's suggestion in his 1992 report that they "make provision for the appointment of an independent body as a part of the process of determining appropriate levels of remuneration for Members." Specifically, he called for the naming of "an independent, neutral and knowledgeable person from private life" who could, among other tasks, conduct a "period review" of the Connaghan formula "and the underlying structure to ensure both remain relevant." The Connaghan formula, an annual cost-of-living adjustment to MLA salaries, was implemented following release of the 1997 citizens' panel report on MLA compensation. But a commissioner on MLA remuneration wasn't appointed.

Earlier, we reported the BC Trucking Association has been encouraging industry members to support Get Moving BC, a "non-profit, grassroots organization" advocating on behalf of the Gateway Program. And, according to an email from the association's communications coordinator Sandra Azanchi, Canada Wide Magazines and Publications Ltd. is among the businesses backing that group - which, coincidentally, is being organized by a number of prominent provincial Liberal members. Of course, this isn't the first time Canada Wide has come to the assistance of the Campbell administration. As our astute readers may remember, president and publisher Peter Legge put the premier's picture on the cover of BCBusiness Magazine just before the last election. Canada Wide Magazines and Publications hasn't yet responded to a request for comment placed earlier this afternoon.

Provincial Liberals have once again tried to turn down the temperature in the legislature by suggesting the New Democrats are at risk of legal action - this time, by asking questions about the Basi-Virk trial. "Go say it oustide," heckled House Leader Mike de Jong during today's question period. "Say it in the hallway," demanded Solicitor General John Les. So what does New Democrat leader Carole James make of those threats? Speaking with reporters, Ms James said, "I think it shows this government will do absolutely anything to avoid answering questions. They're trying to threaten people. They're trying to raise concerns that if you say things something might happen. Well, we're going to raising these issues on behalf of the public. These are serious allegations. The public deserves answers. And they certainly deserve better than they're getting from this government."

Earlier this month, provincial Liberal legislators accepted the independent commission to review MLA compensation's controversial recommendations. But have cabinet ministers Rich Neufeld and Rick Thorpe always been in favour of a generous pay and pension package for elected representatives? After all, before the Liberals won government, Ministers Neufeld and Thorpe made written submission to the 1997 citizens' panel on MLA remuneration. But the clerk of the committees won't release those submissions, "holding them in confidence." Minister Thorpe is refusing to answer questions about the issue. And, in an interview today with Public Eye, Minister Neufeld, he couldn't say what advice he gave to the panel. "I don't know. Go back and read it. I don't have it. And I don't know what it was. I can't remember back to 1997."

On Saturday, The Globe and Mail's Jane Taber reported former Liberal leadership candidates Martha Hall Findlay "stopped collecting their secret Liberal salaries" at the end of April. "The two were paid paid by the party for election readiness and outreach work." But Ms. Taber continued. "A party official explained they are no longer being paid since most of their work is completed." And, really, why pay for work Mr. Kennedy is willing to do for free? In an email, party communications director Elizabeth Whiting confirmed "Mr. Kennedy is continuing his role as National Election Readiness Advisor for the Party on a volunteer basis" as indicated on a national campaign organization chart dated May 15. The following is a complete copy of the text of that chart, which was obtained by Public Eye.

When last we reported on on our good friend Brian Bonney, he had abruptly resigned as the operations director for the provincial Liberals. But just because he isn't on the party payroll anymore, doesn't mean Mr. Bonney isn't still toiling away in the backrooms on behalf of the Campbell administration. For example, yesterday, in an email sent to industry members, BC Trucking Association communications coordinator Sandra Azanchi encouraged them to support Get Moving BC, "a non-profit, grassroots organization composed of individuals, businesses and organizations in the Greater Vancouver area advocating a balanced, efficient, and sustainable transportation infrastructure." And who should they contact for more information about this pro-Gateway Program group? Well, if you guessed Mr. Bonney, you'd be right!

Earlier, we reported a slate of seven candidates, including former Vancouver councillor Ellen Woodsworth, would be running for the Coalition of Progressive Electors executive on May 27. And there's been suggestions that Vancouver-Kensington provincial New Democrat legislator David Chudnovsky is backing that slate. So what does the transportation critic have to say about such talk? Well, in an interview with Public Eye, Mr. Chudnovsky said, "I know some of those folks (on the slate) and they're good folks - and so are some of the other folks on the executive. And I'm sure we'll have a great executive at the end of the election." So does that mean he's supporting the slate? "I support some people who are in that group and some who aren't," Mr. Chudnovsky responded.

Like C.J. Connaghan's 1992 review of MLA remuneration, recent independent pay-and-pension commision surveyed members of the public to find out how much they thought elected officials should be compensated. A detailed summary of the poll results was provided. But, unlike Mr. Connagahn's review, the commission's final report didn't included the tables for that survey. And you're not going to see them either. In response to a request for those tables, commission chair Sue Paish informed Public Eye, "All material submitted to the Commission other than presentations at the public hearings were provided in confidence. As a result, unfortunately it would not be appropriate to provide the detailed information you requested as there may be a breach of the confidentiality."

Man in motion Rick Hansen may not been running for the federal Tory nomination in Vancouver-Quadra. But our understanding is that some party members are hopeful BC Cancer Foundation president and chief executive officer Mary McNeil, who is also a member of the Vancouver Police Board, will be stepping up to the starting line. In 2003, BCBusiness Magazine recognized Ms. McNeil as one of the top six chief executive officers in British Columbia. University of British Columbia Sauder School of Business law division lecturer Deborah Meredith is presently the only declared candidate in the nomination race.

Last week, former BC Nurses Union president Ivory Warner criticized the composition of the controversial independent MLA pay-and-pension commission - which included a lawyer, a former judge and a business professor. But Ms. Warner isn't the only member of the 1997 citizens panel on MLA compensation who believes the commission should have been more populist. In an interview with Public Eye, former BC Coalition of People with Disabilities president Margo Massie said, "What really struck me this time was those three folks really weren't representative of average British Columbians. And the citizens panel I was on was really quite fair. But these folks (on the commission) don't really seem to be in touch with who the average British Columbians is and how much they make."

Back in February, Children and Family Development Minister Tom Christensen said that timelines for establishing non-aboriginal and aboriginal authorities had been discarded because "government will not force the process by putting a time frame in place." But a confidential action plan, dated 2007, states "accountability for sustained progress towards goals and timeframes is a fundamental component" of the ministry's transformation process - which, presumably, includes establishing those authorities. Or perhaps an exception was made? Earlier, Public Eye reported the Vancouver Island Aboriginal Transformation Team notified stakeholders their authority would begin service by 2008 - having been "recognized in provincial legislation."

The provincial New Democrats, inexplicably, aren't commenting on revelations the three-person MLA pay-and-pension panel changed its recommendations while one of their number was in Europe. But former premier Bill Vander Zalm, 24 hours' columnist Bill Tieleman and the Times Colonist's editorial board are. "It's the process that ought to concern people. Because the process is very flawed," said Mr. Vander Zalm, in an interview this morning on Public Eye Radio. "They ought to do it over again. And, this time, they should have people who are more representative of the average British Columbian" rather than a lawyer, a former judge and a business professor - an opinion shared by the Times Colonist.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, Maclean's reporter Kady O'Malley discuss the handcuffing of an alleged government leaker. Carbon Trade Watch associate Graham Erion shares his thoughts on the Campbell administration's decision to participate in a cap-and-trade greenhouse gas emissions system. And former premier Bill Vander Zalm shares his thoughts on the controversial MLA pay-and-pension panel. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Bob Russell, Alex Tsakumis, Allan Warnke and Brad Zubyk - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 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 allegations that the federal Green Party is "facing increasing accounts payable and cannot sustain its current level of spending." This, according to a petition being circulated amongst cardholders. But, in an interview with Public Eye, party leader Elizabeth May says that claim is "based on a lot of misinformation as, unfortunately, can be the case with email petitions. We're doing just fine in managing the growth within the party. We, obviously, had some expenses at the beginning of the year because we were preparing for a spring election. But that just means that's money we don't have to spend again to prepare for the next election - so that was all a quite reasonable thing to do. So the petition misrepresents debt levels. It's much less than where we were in the fall...So there's kind of some misrepresentation that was captured by people who just aren't that close to our finances."

Yesterday, the Mustel Research Group Ltd. released a poll showing 36 percent of British Columbians support the provincial New Democrats - 15 percentage points less than the Liberals. And just 35 percent approve of party leader Carole James's performance. So how are the New Democrats responding to those latest poll numbers? Well, er...they're not. This, according to talking points distributed to legislators by caucus communications director Chris Gainor. The following is a complete copy of those talking points.

Today, Canadian Taxpayers Federation British Columbia communications director Maureen Bader said "the lack of consensus" on the MLA pay-and-pension commission "means the premier should revoke the panel's recommendations right now." So you'd think the provincial New Democrats, who claim they're opposed to the commission's proposals, would be hopping on the same band wagon. But, when Opposition legislators were asked for comment on commission member Sandra Robinson's statement that the panel's recommendations were changed while she was in Europe, they gave none. So why might that be, you may wonder? Well, in an interview with Public Eye, caucus communications director Chris Gainor explained, "The relevant thing for us right now is what the government does in its bill. And we're awaiting the government's bill."

Sue Paish, the chair of the controversial MLA pay-and-pension panel, confirmed today the commission's final recommendations were hammered out while one member was in Europe. But Ms. Paish says Sandra Robinson was invited to participate in that discussion via teleconference. "And she just didn't want to discuss it. And I don't know why," said Ms. Paish, in an interview with Public Eye. Although she added Prof. Robinson, a faculty member at the University of British Columbia's Sauder School of Business, "made it very clear to us...that she would not be agreeing with the report, she didn't want her name attached to it, she didn't want any reference to her in the report."

Earlier today, Public Eye exclusively reported Sandra Robinson, a member of the independent commission to review MLA compensation, disagreed with the "type and the actual size" of the pension plan recommended by the panel. And she further stated changes to the panel's recommendations were made while she was out of country. Prof. Robinson, who teaches at the University of British Columbia's Sauder School of Business, tried to retract those statements, which were made during an on-the-record, taped interview. And it seems she's doesn't want to discuss the issue on air either. This morning, Prof. Robinson was scheduled to be a guest on The Bill Good Show, as part of a segment on national mental health week. The following is a transcript of that abbreviated interview on CKNW.

Sandra Robinson, a member of the independent commission to review MLA compensation, has confirmed she "doesn't agree" with some of the panel's now controversial pay-and-pension plan recommendations. "There's quite a few," disagreements said Prof. Robinson, in an exclusive interview with Public Eye. But "the biggest area of disagreement would have been on the pension - both the type and the actual size of the pension." Explained Prof. Robinson, who teaches at the University of British Columbia's Sauder School of Business, "I would have been comfortable with a smaller employer contribution than the one that (fellow commissioners) Sue (Paish) and Joe (Wood) preferred. I was looking to keep it at 20 percent of salary per year on the employer side. And the plan they have is 34 percent currently. I also wanted there to be constraints on the amount of the employer contribution...to protect the taxpayers." Even more, surprising, though, is the fact Prof. Robinson says changes were made to the commission's recommendations while she was out of country.

The federal Greens may be having some money troubles - this, according to a petition being circulated among supporters. The petition, obtained by Public Eye, demands the party's budget be balanced by June 2007, with all debts paid off by December 31, 2007. The reason: the party is, evidently, "facing increasing accounts payable and cannot sustain its current level of spending" - a situation at odds with the Greens' commitment to fiscal responsibility. Press secretary Camille Labchuk didn't respond to a request for comment concerning the party's finances. But it's said the Greens may have accumulated $420,000 in new debt since October. The following is a complete copy of that petition.

Federal Green leader Elizabeth May has come down with a case of keyboard-in-mouth disease. Last month, Ms. May controversially compared Prime Minister Stephen Harper's stance on climate chance to "a grievance worse than Neville Chamberlain's appeasement of the Nazis." Soon after, the prominent environmentalist issued a statement of regret. But her decision to elaborate on that statement seems to have stirred up further controversy.

The Campbell administration continues to claim it's the most open and accountable government in the country. But, after six years in office, that claim has become a farce - and a hypocritical one at that. After all, the provincial Liberals are, arguably, the least open and accountable political party in British Columbia. For example, the party refuses to discuss who's on their payroll, classifying the information as "strategic." So if the Liberals don't want to let the sun shine in on their operations, perhaps it's time we demanded legislation to force those blinds open?

Yesterday, provincial New Democrat legislator Harry Lali told The Province's Michael Smyth that party leader Carole James couldn't take away his post as deputy caucus chair. Technically, he's right. But, just before question period, Mr. Lali resigned as deputy caucus chair - a day after being relieved of his critic responsibilities.

Yesterday, we reported provincial New Democrat legislator Harry Lali had been relieved of his critic duties - this, after apologizing for saying he would support the independent commission to review MLA compensation's controversial recommendations. You'd think that would be more than enough remedial action to be getting on with. But it seems there's once again talk Mr. Lali may be suspended from caucus - this, after The Province's Michael Smyth quoted Mr. Lali as saying, "It's the first time in my life that I've been punished for just telling the truth and speaking my mind." Mr. Lali then went on to tell Mr. Smyth, "I don't intend to make a liar out of myself" when asked whether he still intends to vote for the commission's pay-and-pension package.

Earlier, we reported former provincial economic development deputy minister Andrew Wilkinson, in addition to serving on the Trade, Investment and Labour Mobility Agreement's dispute resolution panel, has been doing government relations work on behalf of Accredited Home Lenders Canada Inc., Crescent Point Energy Trust, Fidelity National Financial Canada Inc. and Simon Fraser University. And, according to the lobbyist registry, the former provincial Liberal party president has since added two companies to his client list. They are: Corporatek Inc., an international company providing telecommunications and computer systems solutions for the government sector; and mineral wool insulation producer Roxul West Inc.

Earlier, we reported former children and family development assistant deputy minister Jeremy Berland had left the groves of academia to become executive lead of special projects at attorney general. And why has he left, you may wonder? After all, Mr. Berland is just a year into what was supposed to be a two-year secondment at the University of Victoria. Well, in an email sent to fellow staff and faculty members, Mr. Berland doesn't offer much of an explanation, except to say, "While I would have preferred to remain at the School, this was not an available option." Curious. The following is a complete copy of that email.

Last month, federal Green leader Elizabeth May compared Prime Minister Stephen Harper's stance on climate change to "a grievance worse than Neville Chamberlain's appeasement of the Nazis." That comparison became a source of controversy for Ms. May. And she subsequently issued a statement of regret saying she was "dismayed that members of the Harper government have chosen to distort my comments to create a firestorm of controversy designed to distract attention from their failure to live up to Canada's Kyoto commitments" - noting a similar comparison had recently been made by best-selling author George Monbiot. But, on Friday morning, the Green leader elaborated on that statement.

Want to work for the provincial government's new climate action secretariat? Well, today was the deadline to apply for a number of positions within that secretariat - including it's head. But that doesn't mean there isn't anyone presently working on the climate change file. For example, the government has already hired Graham Whitmarsh as its chief carbon trading advisor. And who exactly is Mr. Whitmarsh, you may wonder? Well, in a brief interview with Public Eye, the carbon trading advisor confirmed he was once president and chief executive officer of Mercury Scheduling Systems Inc., whose airline software business was purchased by AD OPT Technologies Inc. in 2003. Upon further investigation, Public Eye has learned Mr. Whitmarsh was also a director with software developer and marketer Sourcesmith Industries Inc. and capital pool company Crossroad Ventures Inc.

Provincial New Democrat legislator Harry Lali hasn't been suspended from caucus. Nor has he resigned as caucus vice-chair. But Public Eye has learned that, today, Mr. Lali was relieved of duties as citizens' services critic until July. Last week, the Yale-Lillooet legislator apologized for speaking out in favour of the independent commission to review MLA compensation's controversial recommendations.

Last week, provincial New Democrat legislator Harry Lali ate crow for telling CHNL he would support the controversial recommendations made by the independent panel on MLA compensation. "This was a statement that contradicted the consensus position arrived at by the NDP Caucus and Leader Carole James last Tuesday," said Mr. Lali. "I also stated publicly that I would be supporting legislation that the Campbell Liberals have indicated will be introduced in coming days. My public statement also contradicted the caucus agreement to await the legislation in order to review it before collectively arriving at a decision regarding a response. As I have a great deal of respect for my caucus colleagues I want to sincerely apologize to them for breaking this agreement and offending them." But will Mr. Lali also be forced to resign as the New Democrat's deputy caucus chair? Because what some members want him to do, suggesting the Yale-Lillooet legislator should be suspended from caucus if he doesn't step aside.

The Group of Seven is an organization of industrialized nations, an association of Canadian landscape painters and now a slate running for the Coalition of Progressive Electors executive. In an email sent to friends and supporters, former Vancouver councillor Ellen Woodsworth - a member of the slate - writes, "We are committed to bring progressive people from within and outside COPE to start organizing the defeat of the NPA in 2008. People across this city have been asking me how we can defeat the NPA. I think we can do that by creating a coalition of progressive forces, bringing together COPE, Vision and others." Other slate members include retired BC Nurses Union labour relations officer Dave Ages, coalition internal chair Donalda Geenwell-Baker, former coalition fundraising organizer Carlo Bodrogi, Vancouver School Board community coordinator Nathan Lusignan, Vancouver Fringe Festial operations coordinator Rachel Marcuse, and Festival Distribution Inc. development vice-president Lucas Schuller. Coalition executive elections are scheduled for May 27. The following is a complete copy of that email.

Yesterday, Strategic Thought's David Schreck criticized the independent commission to review MLA compensation for being "cautious" in making public opinion part of its deliberations. And what was the reason for such caution, you may wonder? Well, evidently, "the small number" of written submissions made to the commission - as well as poll conducted on its behalf - "demonstrated a lack of understanding among the public of both the duties and levels of MLA compensation." But past compensation reviews haven't taken the same position.

Ivory Warner - a member of the 1997 citizens' panel on MLA compensation - is slamming suggestions legislators should get a 29 percent base salary increase. Speaking with Public Eye Radio yesterday, the former BC Nurses Union president said, "If this were any other group of workers...who were receiving a 29 percent wage increase, every one of those MLAs would be voting no. I have no doubt in my mind. They would just be saying, 'Are you out of your mind?'"

Back in February 2006, children and family development assistant deputy minister Jeremy Berland accepted a two-year, government-bankrolled secondment to the University of Victoria. At the time, Mr. Berland announced he would be "working closely with the Ministry on a number of child welfare related projects, so expect to be seeing and talking with many of you over the next few months." But it seems that secondment has wrapped up a bit early. On Tuesday, attorney general bureaucrats were informed Mr. Berland would be joining the ministry as the executive lead of special projects. Fancy that!

Earlier, we reported provincial New Democrat legislator John Horgan has introduced legislation aimed at "extending the provisions of the (Members' Conflict of Interest Act) to deputy ministers and government appointees, including ministerial staff and advisors and those in charge of public sector entities." But that legislation is selective in which provisions it extends. Under Mr. Horgan's bill, political aides and senior bureaucrats would be subject to the same lobbying and conflict of interest restrictions as legislators. But, unlike legislators, they won't be required to file annual financial disclosure statements accessible to the public. That's a surprising ommission on Mr. Horgan's part.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, Greenhouse Emissions Management Consortium president Aldyen Donnelly discusses how economic winners and losers are chosen by so-called cap and trade systems. 24 hours's Bob Mackin, the Gold Rush columnist for Business in Vancouver, tells us why the political classes should pay attention to the Vancouver Canucks ownership lawsuit. And former BC Nurses Union president Ivory Warner, a member of 1997 citizens' panel on MLA compensation, talks about the latest pay and pension package being proposed for provincial legislators. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson Bob Russell, Alex Tsakumis and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 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.

Today, the Times Colonist's Paul Willcocks suggested "class" is one of the reasons why the independent commission to review MLA compensation recommended increasing the $76,100 base salary for legislators by 29 percent and awarding them a "generous pension plan." Wrote Mr. Willcocks, "There's nothing wrong with the panel, which included a senior lawyer who specializes in helping employers with labour issues, a former B.C. Supreme Court justice back in private practice and a University of British Columbia business professor. But I'd be surprised if any of the three had income under $150,000. The average would be over $200,000. For them, $76,100 - even the $121,100 paid the premier - is going to look mingy as they consider cuts they would have to make to live on that income. The premier would have been wiser to include some typical British Columbians on the panel." Indeed, the 1997 citizens' panel on MLA compensation, arguably, represented a broader cross-section of British Columbians.

Today, provincial New Democrat legislator John Horgan continued his campaign to shut the revolving door between the government relations industry and the provincial legislature. During question period, Mr. Horgan asked Finance Minister Carole Taylor whether she thought it was time to introduce uniform restrictions that would legally prohibit post-employment lobbying by political aides. At issue: as reported yesterday by Public Eye, Minister Taylor's senior aide Max Logan has left to become a government relations and members services director or the Retail Council of Canada. Minister Taylor has said neither she nor her office will have any contact with Mr. Logan for a year - but other aides and senior bureaucrats haven't been subject to the same restrictions. Despite that inequality, though, Minister Taylor continued to remaining silent on whether a law governing such activities is necessary, simply telling Mr. Horgan that "every case is different."

This afternoon, CHNL reported "It appears now there's a split within the NDP on the issue of a MLA pay increase of up to 29 percent. While party leader Carole James has said the party will reject the legislation, the outspoken MLA for Yale-Lillooet Harry Lali says he intends to support the measures." Mr. Lali was clipped as saying, "I'm not going to be a hypocrit and speak in favour of a pension plan and a pay raise for MLAs and ask for an independent panel and then go into the house and vote against it. I am in support of this package that the independent panel has put forward. And so when I go into the legislature I will be supporting it." Needless to say, more than a few New Democrat legislators are steamed at Mr. Lali. And there's been some suggestions he could lose his post as deputy caucus chair - or even be kicked out of caucus.

The Liberal's decision to support a controversial pay hike and pension plan for provincial legislators presents New Democrat leader Carole James with an unprecedented opportunity. If she can ensure all caucus members opt out of that compensation package (presuming such a provision exists), Ms. James will be able to accuse the Campbell administration of being both sleazy and greedy - something that could win her the next election. But do New Democrats understand that opportunity? And, if not, does Ms. James have the political capital to make them understand? The answer may be no to both questions. And the fact Ms. James is out of the legislature today, speaking to the North Central Municipal Association, might not help her cause. After all, some caucus members are still smarting from the fact she jetted to Saskatchewan during the last pay raise fiasco, where she was scheduled to speak at the New Democrat's seventieth annual convention in that province.

Not surprisingly, the Canadian Taxpayers Federation vowed earlier this week "to fight recommendations presented to the legislature by a politician-appointed panel on MLA compensation that would put B.C. politicians in the top 3% of income earners and reinstate gold-plated pensions" - recommendations that are now being supported by the provincial Liberals. That fight will likely be a constituency-based campaign. But who's going to join the federation on the frontlines? Well, politics does make for strange bedfellows. But some public sector unions might be bit uncomfortable standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the federation. After all, the taxpayer lobby group recently initiated class action lawsuits against the British Columbia Teachers Federation and the Health Employees Union.

Non-Partisan Association Councillor Peter Ladner, the vice-president of Business in Vancouver Media Group Ltd., may have spent 35 years in the journalism business. But he seems to have no love for leaked documents that get his supporters into trouble. Back in March, Public Eye reported Allen Langdon - Mr. Ladner's former election campaign manager - had apparently been using his taxpayer-funded e-mail address at 2010 LegaciesNow to send out partisan messages. That prompted Mr. Langdon's resignation from the association's board of directors - and this note from the councillor: "Those who follow 24 Hrs. newspaper will notice that there is a move afoot to take out my supporters, and, by implication, me - at the NPA board, limiting the organization's options for the best possible slate for the 08 election. I find this quite distressing."

Last week, provincial New Democrat legislator John Horgan introduced legislation that, if passed, would prohibit political aides from lobbying the government until 24 months after leaving their jobs. That's a capital idea. And it seems Finance Minister Carole Taylor's ministerial assistant Max Logan must think so too. Because he's giving everyone an example as to why such legislation might be necessary. On Monday, he left his job to become a government relations and members services director for the Retail Council of Canada - the principal lobby group for the country's retailers.

"News that the Northern Adventure is heading back into refit is a major embarassment for B.C. Ferries and shows they didn't properly plan for the transition period for the vessel." This, according to a provincial New Democrat news release distributed late last month. Not surprisingly, British Columbia Ferry Services Inc. chief executive officer David Hahn wasn't exactly enthralled with that assessment. But what is surprising is that Mr. Hahn responded by giving New Democrat critic Gary Coons a keyboard-lashing. In an email sent to Mr. Coons and regional stakeholders, Mr. Hahn writes, "This is the type of a (sic) negative publicity which undermines the efforts of everyone to rebuild tourism and travel since the sinking of the Qn of the North. It hurts BC Ferries and everyone who owns an operates businesses on the North Coast and beyond. Not helpful and not very smart." Indeed.

Earlier this morning, provincial New Democrat leader Carole James issued a statement saying the "NDP Caucus has now had an opportunity to carefully consider the report of the independent panel on MLA compensation. And we thank the authors for their detailed proposals. The NDP Caucus does not accept the report's recommendations. We feel that they are out of step with what is acceptable to British Columbians. MLA compensation is a difficult and complex issue. But any further consideration of the matter is not a high priority for the NDP Caucus at this time." Fair enough. But could it be that some New Democrat legislators aren't, in fact, in agreement with that final sentence? Could it be some of them were less than pleased when their leader took the question of MLA compensation off the agenda? Asked specifically by Public Eye if that position had been endorsed by caucus, Ms. James said, "We have had a good discussion. We put together our position last night. And that's our position as caucus."

Earlier, we reported on deputy minister Lesley du Toit personnel plans for children and development - which were detailed in a memo sent to executives back of January. Of course, some readers might think the ministry would be anxious to share those plans, even though they're classified as confidential. After all, according Ms. du Toit's latest transformation update, transparency is one of principles that will "form the foundation of our policy framework and practice as well develop good practice in child, family and community development." Writes Ms. du Toit, "to the extent that it is possible within law, MCFD and all service providers will be fully transparent with regard to plans, funding and achievement of principles and goals."

A confidential document, obtained exclusively by Public Eye, shows children and family development's top bureaucrat has taken steps to ensure ministry managers are at least 90 percent supportive of her restructuring plans. In an email, sent to executive team members on January 28, deputy minister Lesley du Toit writes "if any of your managers…are not 90% of the way there and able to be genuinely positive and facilitating of change, then be very sure that you do not appoint them in this new structure."

Look who's raising money for Mayor Sam Sullivan's all-purpose election readiness fund! Why it's none other than Kingswood Properties Ltd. president and Vancouver Board of Trade member Lorne Segal. According to an event invite obtained by Public Eye, Mr. Segal is hosting a $1,000 per ticket "spring cocktail reception" for the mayor at his Southlands home on May 23, featuring "many members of his NPA team." So that must mean Peter Ladner will be attending! Right? The following is a complete copy of that document.

As you now doubt have already heard, the independent commission to review MLA compensation has recommended a dramatic 29 percent increase to the base salary for provincial legislators, effective April 1. That's significantly more than the 15 percent increase MLAs voted for last November - a compensation package that was eventually nixed by the New Democrats. As before, the biggest winners are those receiving special allowances, such as cabinet members and caucus officers. The reason: those bonuses are going up by up to 227 percent in one case. In keeping with past practice, the following is complete copy of how much everyone who isn't a backbencher will get paid if those recommendations are accepted, as compiled and calculated by your humble organ.

Yesterday, the premier's special advisor Ken Dobell said he hadn't made any decision about taking legal action against those who have accused him on being in a conflict of interest. But he did say the "continuous repitition" of those allegations - which relate to his registertration as a lobbyist for the City of Vancouver - is "highly inappropriate" and puts "people's reputations at risk." And Mr. Dobell - who says he doesn't consider his work for the city lobbying, having registered to "simply deal with any question of compliance and to be completely open and transpparent" - isn't the only one who sounded like lawyers' letters could be a possibility.

Last week, provincial New Democrat legislator John Horgan introduced a private members bill aimed at "extending the provisions of the (Members' Conflict of Interest Act) to deputy ministers and government appointees, including ministerial staff and advisors and those in charge of public sector entities." If passed, those officials would be legally prohibited from exercising power if they're in a conflict or apparent conflict of interest, as well being restricted in their post-employment lobbying activities. Those strictures presently only exist in policy. And existing restrictions on lobbying - which can be waived - don't apply to political aides. But this isn't the first time Mr. Horgan's measures have been suggested.

West Coast Group International Consultants Ltd. is perhaps best known for administering JobWave, British Columbia's public-private partnership job placement program. But it seems the company is now looking to expand its operations nationwide. Government relations consultants with the Capital Hill Group Inc. have been lobbying the federal government on behalf of West Coast Group since June - specifically, Human Resources Development Canada and Indian and Northern Affairs Canada. The topic of discussion: "aboriginal affairs, education, employment and training."