In October 2005, B.C.'s private liquor store interests tried to directly lobby Premier Gordon Campbell to reduce the price industry players pay for liquor. A little more than a year later, that cut - which will cost government up to $31.1 million in lost revenue - was made. In a letter addressed to the premier (which was obtained by Public Eye via a freedom of information request) the then president of the Alliance of Beverage Licensees, David Crown, informed "Gordon" his group was concerned "with the direction of government with regard to our industry."

"I have now had the opportunity to have several meetings with Minister (John) Les, and it is most apparent there is no appetite on his part to implement the initiatives that were promised us from Minister (Rich) Coleman" - Minister Les's predecessor.

Specifically, Mr. Crown referred to an anticipated three percentage point increase in the discount those stores receive when purchasing alcohol from the government - something he thought "would be achieved by November 2005."

But in a written statement, the solicitor general's ministry said the premier didn't actually become involved with the file - a statement supported by the alliance's current president Al Arbuthnot. Moreover, the ministry says Minister Coleman made no such promises, denying Minister Les didn't have an "appetite" for increasing the discount. He simply, "as per usual practice, asked that an analysis of the request be undertaken by ministry staff."

Mr. Arbuthnot agrees, adding Minister Les was probably "trying to get his head around a lot of different portfolios in the ministry." Although he maintains Minister Coleman did promise a discount.

Prior to Mr. Crown's letter being sent, a draft briefing note prepared by the province's liquor distribution branch and dated Sept. 19, 2005, stated "government will continue to review options to improve liquor pricing policies, but has no plans for further changes at this time." But, by November 2006, government had made that change, costing the province between $20.8 and $31.1 million in lost revenue each a year - a number that will vary depending on the growth of the private liquor store industry. This, according to a separate briefing note dated Oct. 10, 2006.

That note also states private liquor stores "would welcome a discount increase." Although it was "assumed much of the LRS discount will be passed on to consumers through lower prices." But any other implications for increasing that discount were severed from the note prior to its release. The following is a complete copy of the letter sent by Mr. Crown to Premier Campbell.

***

ABLE BC
FOR A RESPONSIBLE LIQUOR INDUSTRY

October 28, 2005

Premier Gordon Campbell
Legislative Assembly of British Columbia
Room 156
Parliament Buildings
Victoria BC V8V 1X4

Dear Gordon,

We write to express our concern with the direction of government with regard to our industry. I have now had the opportunity to have several meetings with Minister Les, and it is most apparent there is no appetite on his part to implement the initiatives that were promised us from Minister Coleman. The two initiatives industry is depending on are:

* That our retail operations would be given a minimum of a 3% increase in discount and that this would be achieved by November 2005. The goal is to somewhat level the playing fiel, allowing our members to compete with existing government stores.

O/S

Many of our operations throughout the province are borrowing on equities achieved over the last thirty years to survive, while they try to gain the market share that was promised us. We request your assistance on the immediate granting of the 3% discount.

O/S

We are certain that with these two initiatives in place industry can meet a balance in the market place.

O/S

Our Members are small business people located throughout the province and for the most part we are strong believers and supporters in the direction you have taken this province. We thank you for your dedication and hard work, and ask that you will take a moment to direct your people and grant these requests.

Sincerely,

Dave Crown
President

John Fryer was once the very model of a major New Democrat. A former national and provincial union leader, Mr. Fryer ran for the party during the 1988 federal election. But, in an interview with Public Eye, Mr. Fryer confirmed, after more than 40 years as a New Democrat, he joined the Greens this past March. "I think the main reason I joined the Greens is that I believe the Greens under Elizabeth May have raised and are raising the national consciousness on the number one issue of the day - which I consider to be the environment. I have six children and 10 grandchildren. And I'm very concerned about the world we're leaving them," Mr. Fryer explained. That's not the only reason for his defection, though.

Mr. Fryer said he's also concerned about suggestions the New Democrats should try to replace the Liberals nationally. "And I think that's nonsense. (Party leader Jack) Layton is pursuing that. And that's clearly the way he's leading the party. And I think time is too short to go down that dead-end alley."

Mr. Fryer, who has known May for 30 years, said his defection isn't a reflection on the provincial New Democrats. But the party's constitution requires members of that group to also be federal New Democrats.

Last week, Public Eye exclusively reported Marty Zlotnik, a long-time Gordon Campbell associate, has been circulating a petition calling on the premier to "find an alternative method of compensating the Musqueam Indian Band regarding any entitlement they may have" to the University Golf Club. But Mr. Zlotnik isn't the only Liberal supporter with an interest in the issue. Vancouver mogul David Ho, whose companies have donated $125,953 to the party between 2005 and 2006, owns the club's lease - which sees him pay a percentage of its gross revenues to the University of British Columbia.

But, in an interview with Public Eye, club manager Michael Mather explained, "We're not allowed to, as ordered by the courts" to get involved with the negotiations. "We're not allowed to discuss with anybody - whether it be the government, UBC, Musqueam about extending our lease." That lease is set to expire on May 22, 2015.

Peter O'Neil, The Vancouver Sun's Ottawa bureau chief, is taking a two-year leave of absence to become CanWest News Service's European correspondent. Mr. O'Neil will be hopping across the pond in August - although the European bureau isn't scheduled to open until September. The Sun is not presently planning on filling Mr. O'Neil's old job.

The booze business has a longstanding history of hiring former provincial Liberal aides. For example, Premier Gordon Campbell's policy coordination and issues management deputy chief of staff Tom Syer recently became the Western Canada public affairs director for Labatt Breweries of Canada Ltd. Prior to that, former ministerial assistant Cheryl Maitland joined Canada's National Brewers as their public relations manager. And now, we have another example: Kim Haakstad. Ms. Haakstad is leaving Karyon Group, ex-legislator Karn Manhas's company, to become executive director of the Alliance of Beverage Licensees of B.C. The following is a complete copy of that announcement.

June 22, 2007
Re: New ABLE Executive Director

We are very pleased to announce that our new Executive Director with ABLE BC is, Ms. Kim Haakstad. She will officially begin her position on Monday July 9, 2007.

With her strong background in government relations and senior management positions, we are confident that she will be a positive addition to our growing association.

Her contact information will be posted on our website shortly, http://www.ablebc.ca/directors.asp

Those who follow provincial politics (and we assume that's most of our readers) will be familiar with This Week in BC, a weekly editorial broadcast on Shaw TV - and now the Internet. Starting this week, the segment (which is hosted by CKNW bureau chief Sean Leslie), will be available on YouTube. The editorial is produced and edited by Kristina Verruyt.

It seems public affairs bureau executive director Andy Orr, who departed government back in May, has proven to be irreplaceable. Instead, as we earlier speculated, his job has been divided and expanded. Today, bureau staffers were told children and family development communications director Kelly Gleeson has been appointed "Executive Director, Communications - Resource Sector, responsible for: Agriculture and Lands; Economic Development; Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources; Finance; Forests and Housing; Labour and Citizens' Services; Small Business and Revenue; Tourism, Sports and the Arts; and, Transportation." Meanwhile, education communication director Ron Norman has been named "Executive Director, Communications - Social Sector, responsible for: Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation; Advanced Education; Attorney General; Children and Family Development; Community Services; Education; Employment and Income Assistance; Health; Intergovernmental Relations; and, Public Safety and Solicitor General." The following is a complete copy of that internal announcement.

From: Champion, Denise PAB:EX
Sent: June 26, 2007 12:03 PM
To: PAB All Staff
Subject: Staffing Update

Good Afternoon,

Just a quick note to let you know that, effective immediately:

Ron Norman has accepted an OIC appointment as Executive Director, Communications - Social Sector, responsible for: Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation; Advanced Education; Attorney General; Children and Family Development; Community Services; Education; Employment and Income Assistance; Health; Intergovernmental Relations; and, Public Safety and Solicitor General.

Kelly Gleeson has accepted an OIC appointment as Executive Director, Communications - Resource Sector, responsible for: Agriculture and Lands; Economic Development; Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources; Finance; Forests and Housing; Labour and Citizens' Services; Small Business and Revenue; Tourism, Sports and the Arts; and, Transportation.

Jennifer McCrea, Communications Director, has been re-assigned to Education Communications.

Barb Wright has accepted an OIC appointment as Communications Director assigned to Children and Family Development.

Tamara Little, Communications Director, has been re-assigned to Transportation Communications, upon return from her maternity leave.

Kirk Smith will assume the responsibilities assigned to the Communications Director, Advanced Education on an interim basis.

Gordon Williams has accepted an OIC appointment as Communications Director initially assigned to Labour and Citizens' Services.

Rob Duffus has accepted a term limited assignment as Communications Director assigned to Transportation, backfilling Tamara Little's maternity leave.

Linda O'Connor has accepted a term limited assignment as Communications Manager assigned to Labour and Citizen's Services.

Sherri Patterson has accepted a term limited assignment as Communications Manager assigned to Finance.

Trish Shields and Lisa Leslie will job-share the Communications Manager position at Children and Family Development for six months on a trial basis.

Please note that while these changes are effective immediately, there will be a transition of responsibilities over the coming weeks to ensure that all ministries continue to receive the level of support they have come to expect from their Public Affairs teams.

Please join me in extending our best wishes to Ron, Kelly, Jennifer, Barb, Kirk, Gordon, Rob, Linda, Trish, Lisa and Sherri as they undertake their new responsibilities.

Denise J. Champion

Director, Operations and Human Resources
Public Affairs Bureau

Earlier, we reported former provincial Green outreach coordinator Ben West might run in the race to succeed Adriane Carr, who stepped as party leader last September. And it looks like Mr. West is getting ready to step up to the startling line. For one thing, according to his Facebook entry, the bearded backroom boy is now clean shaven - a not insignifcant personal grooming decision. After all, facial hair is, in the words of Bill Mackay, "taboo in politics." But, more important, is the fact that Mr. West seems to be putting together some kind of advisory committee for his prospective leadership bid.

If the provincial New Democrat nomination review committee's recommendations are accepted as is, 40 percent of the party's non-incumbent ridings will be designated as "affirmative action" seats in the next elections. This, according to a copy of the committee's updated report, which is presently being circulated for review. The document also recommends affirmative action seats receive enhanced fundraising revenues or grants of up to $10,000 from the party to "encourage this process and local riding engagement and support." A final, comprehensive nomination review committee report will be written over the summer and presented at the party's November convention. The following is a complete copy of the updated report.

Nomination Review Committee
Updated report, June 4, 2007

Co-Chairs

Cheryl Hewitt
Glen Sanford

Introduction

Here is an updated report from the Nomination Review Committee.

The following proposals are informed by feedback provided by members at the 2005 Convention, the Regional Conferences in 2006, and in various submissions from constituencies and individuals. We have strived to balance the various – and sometimes conflicting – suggestions from the Party membership to achieve a nomination process that is clear, fair and helps to achieve affirmative action targets.

This report contains only our proposals for change. Earlier reports – which were widely circulated -- have provided details of real and perceived problems with the current process, and the underlying principles upon which our recommendations are based. Copies of the earlier reports are available from the Co-Chairs.

Timeline

We are asking for feedback to the current suggestions to be forwarded to us by July 3, 2007.

Over the summer of 2007, the Committee will compose a final, comprehensive report that will be circulated to Provincial Council and all constituencies in September.

The recommendations of the final report will be presented at Convention in November 2007.

Proposals

The proposals are divided into four sections: candidate recruitment; candidate approval; nomination meetings; and voting requirements.

Candidate Recruitment

Training

1. Provide skills training and support through campaign schools and workshops targeted to women and other affirmative action candidates.
2. Organize mentoring for potential women nominees by established female Party politicians and expand this program to other identified groups.
3. Continue to update and distribute guides to winning nominations, ensuring that these documents recognize regional, social, cultural, economic and gender distinctions.
Recruitment
4. Establish an Affirmative Action Recruitment Committee and ensure broad representation including the Leader, at least 2 MLAs and 2 Party Vice-Presidents, as well as the Chair of the WRC. This Committee will strive to recruit well in advance of nominations.
5. Hold regional candidate recruitment seminars in conjunction with Regional Conferences. This should include efforts to do outreach in different cultural and social communities so that contact is made with a diverse group of potential candidates.
6. Expand the duties of Executive Regional Reps and/or WRC Regional Reps to include involvement in candidate searches in regions as early as possible and throughout the pre-election period in order to enhance our capacity to identify and engage with women/minority candidates. Regular reports should be made on a regional basis to the Affirmative Action Recruitment Committee.
7. Seek out other Party activists from different cultural and social communities to help in the candidate search process.

Affirmative Action

Targets

8. There will be two categories of affirmative action candidates:
a. Category One designation is for gender equity;
b. Category Two for other designated affirmative action categories (gay/lesbian /bi/transgendered; persons of colour; Indigenous peoples; persons with disabilities).
9. 30% of non-incumbent ridings must be designated as Category One affirmative action seats for the 2009 election, moving to fifty percent in the election following (2013).
10. In addition, another 10% of the non incumbent seats shall be designated for Category Two Affirmative Action Candidates in 2009 election, moving to 15% in 2013.
The Process
11. The nomination freeze remains in place until this process of designation is complete. Constituencies are still required to meet other pre-election criteria as designated by the Provincial Executive.
Step 1 -- The Provincial Executive will designate all constituencies where the incumbent NDP MLA has decided not to seek re-election as Category One affirmative action ridings. This step helps ensure that women are not only running in seats where the NDP has never been elected, and helps us reach the goal of ensuring that a critical mass of women are elected in the next election.
Step 2 -- Non-incumbent constituencies self identify to the Provincial Executive (by resolution of their Executive) their desire to be designated an affirmative action seat, for either the Category One or Category Two designated group. It may be useful for regions to discuss, as a part of their election planning readiness, how affirmative action goals might be reached regionally. Any decisions must be affirmed by affected constituencies.
Step 3 -- Should Step 2 not achieve the overall number of targeted affirmative action seats, the Provincial Executive will designate the remaining seats. Criteria used to designate these seats will include: win ability; potential as a swing riding; regional distribution; community support; and potential candidate availability; and affirmative action formula targets.
Affirmative Action Promotion Program
12. Finally, to encourage this process and local riding engagement and support, the Committee recommends that a financial incentive be put into place for affirmative action designated ridings. There are two possible options we recommend: first, an Affirmative Action Promotion program where enhanced revenues from fundraising will flow to designated constituencies.
Possible programs could include:
75% local constituency 25% Provincial Office
70% local constituency 30% Provincial Office
65% local constituency 35% Provincial Office
60% local constituency 40% Provincial Office
The program could take place over one, two, or three months. Any programs would have to end prior to the writ being dropped to comply with Elections BC rules and regulations.
A second option might be to have the Provincial Party give a cash payment in the form of an affirmative action grant. All designated ridings would be eligible. These grants could range from:
$7.000.00 $8,000.00 $10,000.00
We understand that revenue sharing formulas are set by Provincial Council. Therefore we frame this recommendation as advice from Convention to Provincial Council, and request they consider this matter at its first meeting which follows the November 2007 Convention.
13. We also recommend that Affirmative Action candidates who can demonstrate financial need have their nomination fees reduced by 50%.
Reviewing Processes and Outcomes
14. To ensure that the affirmative action plan outlined in these recommendations is achieving our goals of increasing the number of nominated and elected Affirmative Action candidates, we also recommend that the Provincial Executive review these policies following the 2009 and 2013 election campaigns and, where necessary, make subsequent policy recommendations as required.

Candidate Approval
1. The Provincial Executive will develop criteria for approving candidates for nomination and communicate those criteria to constituency executives and presidents to guide local candidate search. The criteria will include a commitment to NDP values. The Provincial Executive may reject candidates for nomination who do not meet the criteria.
2. The Provincial Executive and the Leader will establish criteria for removing candidates, including circumstances where continued candidacy will harm the Party and/or its electoral chances.
3. The Provincial Executive will identify situations in which they may waive the 90-day rule for Party membership (e.g. to achieve affirmative action goals, attract a candidate where no one has offered, or allow a candidate whose job disallows political Party membership). In all cases candidates must show clear and strong commitment to the principles of the NDP.
4. Constituency Candidate Search Committees will be encouraged to use a combination of candidate approval disclosure forms (pre-test), questionnaires, and interviews to ensure a more comprehensive candidate screening process.
5. The local Candidate Search Committees should have frank discussions with potential candidates on the implications of any personal or political issues relating to candidates that might have a negative impact if the issues were to become public.
6. Provincial Executive Regional Representatives will act as liaisons to the Provincial Executive and assist local search committees with sensitive issues related to candidate approval.
7. Ensure the fairness and transparency of the nomination contest by establishing spending limits for candidates and prohibiting the giving of gifts or inducements to take a membership.
8. Candidates who fail to fully disclose nomination campaign expenses or donations according to Provincial Executive regulations may be barred from seeking Provincial or Federal Party nominations for up to six years, including having their nomination rescinded if they were a successful candidate, and/or fined to recover costs incurred by the constituency association or the Provincial Party as a result of their failure to follow regulations.
9. All candidates for nomination must be declared and approved by the Provincial Executive twenty-five [25] days prior to the nomination meeting date.

Nomination Meetings

Applications for Meetings

1. All constituency and riding associations must apply in writing to the Provincial Executive for approval of a nomination meeting date once requirements established by the Provincial Executive have been satisfied.

Meeting Rules

2. All constituency and riding associations will use a standard set of meeting and registration rules with options to meet specific constituency needs for voting procedures as defined by our Constitution or established through regulation.
3. Meeting rules shall include a standard procedure for confirmation of identity and issuing conditional ballots.
4. The Provincial Executive will establish an appeal process for constituency or riding associations that wish to deviate from standard rules and procedures. The Provincial Executive will retain the authority to allow or disallow deviations from the rules.
5. The constituency or riding credentials committees will make final rulings on voter eligibility.
6. Constituency and riding associations shall arrange for childcare with a requirement for advance registration to ensure appropriate care.

Voting Procedures

7. Constituency and riding associations will have the option of using a preferential ballot or multiple ballot system for nominating meetings.
8. Constituency and riding associations will have the option of setting up advance polls.
9. Rural and remote constituencies, as defined by Elections Canada, may request the use of a mail ballot.
10. Constituency and riding associations will have the option of allowing members who vote advance or by mail to retrieve their ballots at the nominating meeting.
11. In nomination contests where there is not a mail ballot, constituency and riding associations will have the option of providing special mail ballots to seniors and people with disabilities who do not have the capacity to attend a nomination meeting in person – such a ballot would have to be requested in writing in advance of the nomination meeting.
12. Constituency and riding associations will have the option to establish a set time period for voting during the nomination meetings which use preferential ballots, allowing members to attend only for the purpose of casting their ballots.
13. When constituency and riding associations apply to the Provincial Executive for meeting date approval, they must identify the balloting system, plans for advance polls, time periods for voting if using a preferential ballot, plans for mail ballots as well as the name(s) the Balloting Committee Chair or Co-chairs responsible for handling special or mail ballots.
14. Constituencies shall make provision for members who have insufficient identification to prove their identity by other means, such as swearing a statutory declaration before a lawyer or notary public, or by having a system whereby other members may vouch for the member.

Meeting Notices

15. Nomination meeting notices shall be posted twenty-one [21] days in advance of the nomination meeting.
16. Constituency and riding associations may notify members of nomination meetings by letter mail or by e-mail to those members who have agreed to email notification.
17. Constituencies may mail a single notice to households with multiple names/labels on the envelopes.
18. The full Appendices regarding nomination meetings will not be required to be enclosed in meeting notices. A short version of the standard rules set by the Provincial Executive must be included with meetings notices.
19. All meeting notices will explain the identification required under the rules.

Membership List Confidentiality

20. Candidates for nomination will be required to complete a confidentiality agreement which will includes appropriate sanctions for non-compliance including an agreement to destroy all hard and electronic copies of the membership list used during nomination campaigns.

Consequences for Failing to Abide by Rules and Procedures

21. The Provincial Executive may declare null and void those nominating meetings held in constituencies whose executives willfully violate the regulations established by the Provincial Executive. Meetings declared null and void will be rescheduled and staffed by appointees of the Provincial Executive.
22. Constituency executives who willfully disregard Provincial Party regulations regarding nominations may face sanctions, including a
individuals having their memberships revoked or constituency association being deregistered with Elections BC.

VOTING REQUIREMENTS

1. Establish clear criteria for eligibility for membership including:

i. Canadian citizenship or people who reside in Canada permanently;
ii. 12 years of age or older;
iii. Personal payment of a minimum $10 fee, except for YND members and waivers for hardship;
iv. No membership in another political party, either provincially or federally.

2. Establish clear criteria for eligibility to vote including:

i. Retaining the present 90-day membership requirement.
ii. Revising the renewal provisions so that membership will be continuous only if it is renewed within 90 days of lapsing.

3. Support constituency and candidate efforts to comply with the voting requirements by:

i. Ensuring there are sufficient resources including computers and database capacity to provide a fair and efficient process for tracking memberships and generating accurate lists in a timely fashion.
ii. Ensuring there are sufficient resources to review and process membership applications.
iii. Require all persons who are soliciting memberships for potential candidates are Party members.
iv. Requiring candidates to declare the names of any canvasser who turns in 10 or more applications for membership.
v. Establishing sanctions for not following rules and procedures that are strong enough to act as a deterrent to abuse. Depending on the severity of the abuse, the sanctions could include:
1. Disallowing cards turned in by a canvasser who has violated the rules
2. Rescinding the membership of such a canvasser
3. Disallowing the candidacy of a candidate who has violated the rules, or whose canvasser has violated the rules
4. Impose a fine to recover the administrative costs of dealing with the violation.

Last week, Community Living British Columbia rolled out a "multi-media campaign" to "raise general awareness" about the developmentally disabled, as well as "provide a positive message regarding community inclusion." This, according to an email distributed to authority employees by communications director Sally Greenwood. Ms. Greenwood goes onto write that Community Living's media buy for the television commercial component of that campaign "consists of airtime on most provincial television stations including the TV listings channel and will run for 11 weeks paid air time beginning June 18th." But, as laudable as those commercials are, some might wonder whether the campaign's $180,000 budget might have been better spent reducing the authority's waitlist, which includes "3,150 adults with varying degrees of need…requiring some form of new or enhanced CLBC services between April 1, 2006 and March 31, 2009."

In a separate email to Public Eye, Ms. Greenwood explained, "CLBC is committed to enhancing community development: assisting in the employment and volunteer opportunities for people with developmental disabilities, creating greater community access and enhancing personal networks." And that "can only be accomplished fully with the participation of all people in community. This campaign is one mechanism to start building greater community awareness and understanding - enhancing community development."

Ms. Greenwood then went onto add "one -time funding for this provincial initiative was made possible through a delay in the implementation of two community programs - community councils and the advisory committee. Because both of these initiatives were not implemented until part way through the year - one time only funding was made available for this initiative - also a community development focused piece of work." The following is a complete copy of the communications director's earlier email.

***

From: Greenwood, Sally CLBC:EX
Sent: Tue, June 19, 2007 2:20 PM
To: CLBC All Exchange Users
Subject: Multi-media campaign launch

CLBC Multi-Media Campaign Launch:

As many of you know, CLBC's Communication Department has been working on the development and production of a multi-media campaign to run over the next several months promoting Community Living.

The intent of this campaign is to raise general awareness about Community Living itself - what it is and to provide a positive message regarding community inclusion. We are pleased to advise you that we have completed production on a 30 second TV spot, 2- 30 second radio spots, a series of print ads, posters and bookmarks. The images and creative concepts that resulted are very positive and powerful messages that we hope will increase public awareness of community living for many months and years to come.

Shortly, we will have the new material posted on our website under News and Events- Media Room - for people to view. While the official launch will take place within the next few weeks, phase one, which consists of the TV spot, has begun airing throughout BC. Our media buy consists of airtime on most provincial television stations including the TV listings channel and will run for 11 weeks paid air time beginning June 18th. The spot may run much longer through pubic service avails, but our paid air time is currently limited to this 11 week period. Stations airing our spot (with frequency and duration boosts through public service announcement placements) are: CBC, CTV, Global, Omni 10, CityTV, A Channel, KVOS and the cable listings.

Phase 2 of our roll out, expected to occur within the next two weeks, will consist of poster, bookmark and print ad distribution. Radio is scheduled for October, but is budget dependent at this time. We will keep you informed as each phase is implemented.

In addition, CLBC will also have an announcement during the Canada Day broadcast of VoicePrint. It is a radio station that broadcasts full-text readings of current articles from leading publications for all Canadians whose core audience is people with vision- and print-restrictions. It can be heard on cable as the secondary audio program of CBC Newsworld and Rogers Digital (ch. 196); on satellite at Star Choice (ch. 825), ExpressVu (ch. 49 & ch. 967), and Look TV (ch. 400); and online at www.voiceprintcanada.com .

As with any advertising and marketing campaign, frequency and duration of message are paramount to a campagin's success. We will be doing everything we can to further enhance the reach of all of this creative work to ensure as much exposure as possible.

For more information please see the article on the May edition of The Citizen on pages 8 and 9.

Sally Greenwood
Director, Communications
Community Living BC (CLBC)

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, Richmond councillor Harold Steves discusses his opposition to the Tsawwassen First Nation treaty settlement. Esquimalt councillor Jane Sterk talks about her future bid to lead the provincial Greens. And former party candidate Stuart Hertzog shares his concerns about the present state of the Greens. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Bob Russell and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 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.

Vancouver park commissioner Marty Zlotnik, one of Gordon Campbell's long-time associates, is circulating a petition calling on the premier to "find an alternative method of compensating the Musqueam Indian Band regarding any entitlement they may have to the UBC golf Course." The petition, which is also being coordinated by University of British Columbia athletics and recreation professor emeritus Bob Hindmarch, goes on to state "We believe that this golf course has been a vital recreation resource and an important part of the social fabric of Vancouver since 1929, particularly those of us who are lucky enough to live in Point Grey." And, "with the recreational needs of seniors clearly on the increase in our community, it would be a terrible mistake to convert this precious resource into housing either for the private sector or the Musqueam Indian Band." The following is an edited copy of that petition and Mr. Zlotnik's accompanying email.

----- Original Message -----
From: Marty Zlotnik
Sent: Friday, June 22, 2007 6:06 AM
Subject: FW: Petition

I think it’s very unfortunate that the Premier has decided to give the Musqueam Band UBC Golf Course. I would appreciate it if your willing to get the attached petition signed by 9 of your friends and return it to me.

Please forward it to you email list !!

Regards Marty

Martin Zlotnik, B.Comm., LL.B.

***

To the Premier of British Columbia and the member for Point Grey the Honourable Gordon Campbell.

We the undersigned ask you and the Provincial Government to find an alternative method of compensating the Musqueam Indian Band regarding any entitlement they may have to the UBC golf Course. We believe that this golf course has been a vital recreation resource and an important part of the social fabric of Vancouver since 1929, particularly those of us who are lucky enough to live in Point Grey. Over the last seventy five years Vancouver has lost four key golf courses, Jericho, Hastings Park, Shaughnessy and Quilchena. Although Shaughnessy relocated to the Musqueam Land it will revert to the Musqueams in 2033 a short 26 years from now. With the recreational needs of seniors clearly on the increase in our community, it would be a terrible mistake to convert this precious resource into housing either for the private sector or the Musqueam Indian Band.

NAME ADDRESS TEL # EMAIL ADDRESS

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

Once you have 10 signatures could you please fax this petition to Martin Zlotnik and Dr. Bob Hindmarch. Please make further copies and try to get as many people in the lower mainland to express their concern.

Earlier this month, Paralympian Ian Gregson announced he would be running for the leadership of the provincial Greens. But, in an interview with Public Eye, Mr. Gregson says he's pulling out of that race - principally because the party is requiring contestants to make a $1,000 nomination deposit. Instead, he'll be supporting Esquimalt councillor Jane Sterk in her leadership bid. "I talked to Jane via email and certainly endorsed her and will support her in whatever way I can," Mr. Gregson added.

What has been described as a $20 million Christmas present for the province's private liquor stores was discussed in the government's backrooms as early as late September, Public Eye has learned. Before the holidays, the Campbell administration quietly made it cheaper for those stores to purchase booze from the government – increasing their discount rate from 13 to 16 percent. And the public would have been none the wiser were it not for The Times Colonist's Paul Willcocks, who broke the news in January. Now, documents obtained via a freedom of information request show a briefing note "re: increasing LRS (liquor retail store) discount to 16%" was distributed to senior civil servants on September 26, 2006.

In an interview, provincial New Democrat critic Mike Farnworth said he wishes the government had instead "been talking to the public" about the price break. "But it's pretty clear they've got the ear of the big box stores and not everyone else."

Government was unable to respond by deadline. But, in an earlier statement, Solicitor General John Les said, "rather than being a ‘gift' to the liquor industry, the increased discount to private liquor stores instead serves to further level the playing field and that's good news for consumers."

On Tuesday, Premier Gordon Campbell told members of the Vancouver Board of Trade his administration would be working with the business community, the non-profit sector and local governments to reach its environmental goals. But, more than four months after the Liberals made climate change their most important policy priority, some members of those communities are wishing the government would do a better job communicating what exactly that work will entail.

One source connected to the province’s environmental groups says the amount of information being provided by the British Columbia government about its regional carbon trading initiative, "is nil." As a result, those organizations "are looking elsewhere for information on the process in British Columbia - mainly south of the border to jurisdictions in the U.S. which are being more open and less secretive about what’s going on."

Indeed, a source familiar with the business community says, "It sometimes feels like there’s more feels like there’s more information about what’s happening in B.C. in California than there is in B.C." - a troubling comment, given that it’s expected the trading system will have a profound impact on the provincial economy. Both sources spoke on condition of anonymity.

The New Democrats have long suspected some of the province's media outlets are biased against them. But senior party members don't often put those suspicions in print - principally because, in the words of Mark Twain, it's not advisable to "pick a fight with someone who buys ink by the barrel." Nevertheless, that's exactly what New Democrat caucus policy director Ian Reid appears to have done on his personal blog. Under the headline The Tale of Two Stories, for example, Mr. Reid complains The Vancouver Sun didn't give the New Democrats enough credit when they released a leak copy of the Fraser Health Authority's service plan.

"In the Sun you had to turn the page to find out that the NDP had anything to do with the story. In the Province that information is up front in the headline and the lead paragraph," Mr. Reid writes. "The way the Sun writes the story the reader doesn't find out what (New Democrat health critic Adrian) Dix thinks this says about the government's management of health care until the fifteenth paragraph. He gets five paragraphs to tell that story. The government gets six to respond." The staffer went onto add "it's as if" the article was edited "to remove the story line.

In an interview, New Democrat communications director Chris Gainor stressed "this blog is Ian's personal opinion and not the opinion of caucus. And we've just found out about this. And we will be talking to him about it as soon as we can."

Last week, the British Columbia Lottery Corp. announced "the appointment of Dana Hayden as Interim President and CEO, effective immediately. Ms. Hayden joins BCLC on secondment from her position of Deputy Minister, Strategic Policy, Office of the Premier." Of course, Ms. Hayden isn't the premier's only strategic policy deputy minister. Phil Steenkamp also holds the same title. But Mr. Steenkamp was seconded to the Ontario civil service early last year.

British Columbia's decision to join the Western Regional Climate Action initiative is a principal part of the Campbell administration's environmental agenda. But this isn't the first time the province has proposed developing a carbon trading system. Back in November 1997, then New Democrat Employment and Investment Minister Dan Miller and Environment, Lands and Parks Minister Cathy McGregor launched "an innovative emission reduction trading pilot project to encourage industry participation in lowering greenhouse gas emissions." That project didn't proceed past the pilot phase. But the man responsible - Warren Bell - is now working as a special advisor with the premier's climate action secretariat.

It's been four weeks since British Columbia public affairs bureau executive director Andy Orr resigned to join Ascent Public Affairs Inc. So bureau staffers are, understandably, wondering when government will be appointing a replacement. Meanwhile, others are speculating the post could be expanded or divided into two or more separate jobs.

It's been almost three weeks since Graham Whitmarsh was appointed British Columbia's top climate change bureaucrat. And the government has yet to answer detailed questions about his background. So, in the absence of such answers, we're pleased to continue to fill-in some of those blanks: earlier, we reported Mr. Whitmarsh was the North America vice-president for Sabre Airline Solutions. And, in an interview with Public Eye, a representative from the Texas-based information technology company confirmed he was with the firm between July 26, 2004 and July 12, 2005. That means, when you include his eight years at British Aerospace PLC and his five years at Mercury Scheduling Systems Inc., we've now accounted for around 14 years of Mr. Whitmarsh's "17 years of diverse international business experience."

Meanwhile, in an interview with Public Eye, Northern Energy and Mining Inc. board member and former president David Austin - who served with Mr. Whitmarsh on the board of capital pool company Crossroad Ventures Inc. - wasn't able to say much about the former executive's background in carbon trading. "I really couldn't help you with that. I know Graham more as a personal friend. He's very capable. That's the one thing I can tell you. And I have a high regard for him. So I really couldn't tell you any history on that. I'm in the coal business. So we might actually be conflicting with one another."

The premier's communications director Dale Steeves has said Mr. Whitmarsh, "understands the key actions taken by other jurisdictions with respect to cap and trade and carbon offsets" - as well as having "completed research into the market for carbon offsets and the opportunity that they present to BC." Mr. Steeves has refused to say what qualifications Mr. Whitmarsh has to "understand" cap and trade systems. Nor would he say whether Mr. Whitmarsh's research into those systems was done as part of his present work with government or a past post.

Earlier this year, the provincial government announced it had "joined with five western U.S. states to partner in the new Western Regional Climate Action Initiative." That initiative will, among other things, "develop a market-based, multi-sector mechanism" to reduce greenhouse gas emissions - a mechanism which is expected to have a significant impact on British Columbia's economy. So how is that development proceeding? Well, last Friday, Public Eye has learned representatives from jurisdictions participating in the initiative - including new members Manitoba and Utah - met in Portland to continue discussing their shared environmental agenda.

That's what we're doing next week. Which means Public Eye will be on hiatus until June 18.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, former provincial New Democrat ministerial assistant and candidate Richard Tones talks about why our legislators should have more staff. Party critic David Cubberley discusses recent changes to British Columbia's education system. And lawyer Kathy Parker discusses big labours' big win at the Supreme Court of Canada. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Alex Tsakumis, Bob Russell and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 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.

Graham Whitmarsh, the province's new top climate action bureaucrat, appears to have had a long-standing business relationship with Harmony Airways - the company once presided over by former finance minister Gary Collins. Earlier, we reported Mr. Whitmarsh, the former president and chief executive officer of Mercury Scheduling Systems Inc., worked at the now defunct full-service airline. And now we've learned, HMY Airways - Harmony's successor - purchased software from Mr. Whitmarsh's firm. In March 2003, it was announced HMY had "signed a 3-year agreement to license Mercury’s crew tracking system, Magellan." At the time of that deal, Mr. Collins was not president of Harmony. Mercury's airline software business was subsequently sold to AD OPT Technologies Inc. in July 2003.

Given a choice between working in walled office or a cubicle, most people would be pick the office. So, when Community Living British Columbia announced it would be moving many employees out of their offices and into an open space environment, at least three staffers tried to convince their boss to reverse that decision. On March 10, 2006, one employee in Nanaimo emailed community living chief executive officer Rick Mowles to express her concern with that announcement - part of an open space office initiative to make authority workplaces more "welcoming" for the developmentally disabled.

She noted that, before cubicle inventor Robert Propst died, he "renounced his idea because of the damage it has caused to personnel working under these conditions." In fact, she and a colleague also found several Websites "which talk about the brain actually being physically altered by being compelled to work in a cubicle."

"We would appreciate your comments (even though we DO understand, from when you met with our team, that you do not enjoy receiving emails [Smile!])," the employee concluded.

But her manager Mark Christie had different worries. In a separate email to Mowles - which was also obtained via a freedom of information request - Mr. Christie wrote "the issue in this office is not so much that Cubicles are a bad idea if we were starting out with a new building, but in an existing building that has the correct number of offices the expense and time/work of removing the walls to put up cubicles doesn’t make much sense."

And what was Mr. Mowles response to the employee? "The critical issue to keep in mind is the focus of the new [work] model [at the authority] is about working outside in the community (families, individuals, agencies and community development), not sitting in offices or cubicles," he wrote. Although he promised to meet with staff to discuss the issue.

In an email, communication director Sally Greenwood stated, in the end, the Nanaimo quality service office wasn’t renovated - although, like other community living workplaces, it will be if and when its lease is renewed. Two of the authority's seven quality service offices have moved to an open space environment.

To celebrate the Vancouver Airport Authority's fifteenth anniversary, employees are being given their choice of a leather bag or jacket. But one consumer group thinks the authority should be spending that money on air travellers. In an interview with Public Eye, authority spokeswoman Sue Ross confirmed the bags and jackets are being purchased from Canadian clothing manufacturer Roots Canada Ltd. at below retail price. A final price tag wasn't available - although money isn't exactly an object for the not-for-profit organization. In 2006, it reported $392.9 million in revenue, with $92.6 million coming from airport improvement fees.

And that's why Consumer Association of Canada president Bruce Cran is taking issue with the authority's employee appreciation gifts. "I just find it extraordinary at a time when travellers are paying $15 a pop (in fees) that the authority would be taking an action like this. These people are paid good wages, I imagine, for what they're doing. And what would be the goal in this? It doesn't seem to make sense to me at all."

But it does make sense to authority community and environmental affairs vice-president Anne Murray, who says the gifts are money well-spent. "From my perspective, the only way to deliver a great airport for passengers and for the community is through hard work, a positive attitude and a real focus on customer service. And that is what we have in our employees...We're proud of their hard and we think it's important to recognize that," she explained, adding that the cost of the gifts isn't coming out of improvement fee revenues. In fact, those fees

More news on the climate change file: Public Eye has learned several provincial cabinet ministers will be meeting with their Washington State counterparts this coming Friday in Seattle. A number of cross-jurisdictional issues are scheduled to be discussed during that meeting. But it's expected the environment wil be the centrepiece of those discussions.

Federal Liberal national campaign co-chair Mark Marissen, who was recently described by BC Business magazine as "good looking in a scrubbed, cheerful way," isn't in need of a facelift. But his government and media relations company Burrard Communications Inc. has gotten one - including a new logo, a new Website and a new associate. Forrest Parlee, who is perhaps best known for his stint as a special advisor to Senator Jack Austin, has joined the firm to provide "strategic counsel to clients based on his extensive background in public affairs, stakeholder relations and issues management."

Former Progressive Democratic Alliance leader Gordon Wilson has been hearing from British Columbians who think the province needs a third party. Although Mr. Wilson, a former New Democrat cabinet minister, certainly isn't volunteering to do the job himself. "There's no question there are a very, very significant number of disaffected voters - people who voted Liberal who simply don't like the way the Campbell government is handling the Basi-Virk trial, the selling off of Crown assets, the things that they said they wouldn't do that they've been doing. And now it seems there's no accountability and no openness."

"And, on the flipside of the coin," continued Mr. Wilson, "they don't think they're getting any kind of vocal opposition that's worthwhile from Carole James - with maybe one or two possible exceptions in the opposition. So I've had lots of phone calls from being saying, 'Let's get back at it. Let's resurrect the PDA or start something new or whatever.' So I think there's an appetite out there for sure for people to have more open, more accountable, more responsive government. But whether anybody could actually put the money together to make that happen is another question."

The premier's office doesn't seem to want to talk about their new top climate change bureaucrat's background. So let's see what Graham Whitmarsh has to say about his credentials. Back when he was president and chief executive officer of Mercury Scheduling Systems Inc, Mr. Whitmarsh shared his thoughts about teamwork with Document Boss, a company servicing the electronic document, eneterprise content and business process management industries. And, in an article posted on the company's Website, he describes himself as having "20 years of experience as a team member and Leader, in Sporting, Military and Corporate environments." Hmmm...still no mention of him having been involved in any carbon trading or climate change work. Although Document Boss does mention Mr. Whitmarsh's "earlier career included being a specialist submarine warfare officer with the Royal Navy." So he does have experience with things that prefer to remain hidden. One wonders where that might come in handy.

Among provincial New Democrats, June and shadow cabinet announcements seem to go together like green eggs and hams. Party leader Carole James named her starting lineup of government critics on June 21, 2005. Then, on June 29, 2006, she shuffled them. And now we're hearing talk another shuffle could take place later this month.

Earlier, we reported the premier's office was refusing to answer detailed questions about their new top climate action bureaucrat's background, except to say Graham Whitmarsh has "17 years of diverse international business experience, including five years as a chief executive officer and 12 years in senior management positions in a variety of businesses." But not all governments are so tight-lipped about their environmental advisors. For example, when California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger appointed Terry Tamminen secretary of California's Environmental Protection Agency, his administration wasn't shy about detailing Mr. Tamminen's credentials.

A news release announcing the appointment stated the new agency head "has close to 30 years experience in environmental issues and most recently served as the executive director of the Environment Now Foundation in Santa Monica, a private foundation dedicated to protecting, preserving and restoring the environment of California. Tamminen also founded Santa Monica Baykeeper and was its executive director for six years. He also co-founded Waterkeeper programs in San Diego, Orange County, Ventura and Santa Barbara...Tamminen attended CSU Northridge and the University of Queensland, Australia. His appointment requires senate confirmation. Tamminen is an Independent." Yes siree. The Campbell administration sure does know how to run the most open and accountable government in Canada.

Today is the six month anniversary of the federal Liberal leadership election. That means contestants have until midnight to file with Elections Canada their final comprehensive campaign return - which will include the financing and expense totals for each candidate - as well as "a statement of disputed claims before a court" (and) a statement of unpaid claims that are, or may be, the subject of an application to the Chief Electoral Officer or a judge to authorize payment." And when will this fascinating bit of reading be available to the public, you may wonder? Speaking with Public Eye, Elections Canada public relations officer John Enright said those returns will be posted to the agency's Website "over the next few days."

The Western Canada Wilderness Committee is considering asking the province's merit commissioner
to review the recent appointment of British Columbia's top climate action bureaucrat. Last week, we exclusively told you the premier's office was refusing to answer detailed questions about Graham Whitmarsh's background. Mr. Whitmarsh has an extensive background in the airline information technology and aerospace industries. But Internet and newspaper database searchs shows no reference to him being involved in any carbon trading or climate change work.

Speaking on Public Eye Radio, wilderness committee policy development director Gwen Barlee slammed the premier's office for their lack of openness, saying "You'd think they'd want to trumpet his background and his credentials to fill this position - especially because it's going to be such an incredibly high-profile job within the province."

Continued Ms. Barlee, "I think if you talk to 100 people on the street, 100 people would say that the head of the climate action secretariat needs to be well-versed in the ins-and-outs of climate change. This isn't a job where you're flipping burgers. It requires a degree of expertise if you're going to do that correctly."

Indeed, in a separate interview, New Democrat environment critic Shane Simpson said, based on the information provided by the Campbell administration, "I find it hard to understand what (Mr. Whitmarsh's) credentials are to be heading up the climate change team. I don't see a whole lot of credentials here."

Ms. Barlee added, in the absence of further information, "the wilderness committee is thinking of going to the merit commissioner and perhaps asking her to review the appointment." Joy Illington, an independent officer of the legislature, is responsible for ensuring government appointments are made according to the merit principle. The premier's communications director Dale Steeves has said Mr. Whitmarsh was hired following a "competitive process which was advertised extensively in major newspapers."

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, Western Canada Wilderness Committee policy director Gwen Barlee asks why the Campbell administration is being so tight-lipped about its new top climate action bureaucrat. Federal Young Liberal executive director Scott Pickup discusses his organization's new Tory attack ads. And provinical New Democrat housing critic Diane Thorne shares her thoughts why government should be in the business of regulating the home inspection industry. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Alex Tsakumis, Bob Russell and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 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 this week, the Vancouver Courier's Allen Garr reported Mayor Sam Sullivan has been courting the monied classes as part of his fundraising campaign. Mr. Garr's evidence: in part, luxury cars parked outside a spring cocktail reception at Vancouver Board of Trade member Lorne Segal's "$5.1 million (2006 assessed value), three-acre estate." Quipped the columnist, "This was a not a meeting of the "bike to work week" organizing committee." So is it coincidental that the invitation for Mayor Sullivan's upcoming annual barbeque - which was sent out today - doesn't list where it will be held? The following is a complete copy of that invite.

His Worship Sam Sullivan Mayor of Vancouver
Would like to invite you to his

Annual Barbeque for Friends & Supporters
VENUE:

DATE:
Wednesday, June 13th, 2007
(Rain or Shine)

TIME:
5:30 - 8pm

RSVP:
By email at:
mayorsbbq@npavancouver.ca

-or-

By phone:

before Monday, June 11th. Please let us know if you prefer a vegetarian meal, and if you will be bringing any family with you.

Earlier, we reported the premier's office has repeatedly refused to answer detailed questions about the background of climate action secretariat head Graham Whitmarsh. Internet and newspaper database searches show no reference to Mr. Whitmarsh being involved in any carbon trading or climate action work. Although, according to news releases and trade publications, Mr. Whitmarsh has extensive experience in the airline information technology and aerospace industries. And now Public Eye has exclusively learned Mr. Whitmarsh's involvement with those industries appears to have included a recent stint at Harmony Airways. The now defunct full-service airline's still operational phone system includes a directory entry for Mr. Whitmarsh, as well as a recorded message from the man himself. As our astute readers know, Harmony's president was once former finance minister Gary Collins.

In an email to Public Eye, the premier's communications director Dale Steeves stressed Graham Whitmarsh was appointed head of the climate action secretariat following a "competitive process which was advertised extensively in major newspapers." But, to qualify for that post, it appears Mr. Whitmarsh didn't need any environmental credentials. According to the job description, applicants were advised they should "understand the challenges, complexities and issues inherent in addressing a broad policy challenge such as climate change." But, you'll notice, not necessarily climate change. Earlier, we reported Internet and newspaper database searches (including LexisNexis) show no reference to Mr. Whitmarsh being involved in any carbon trading or climate change work.The following is a complete copy of the aforementioned job description.

Head Climate Action Secretariat
Full-Time

Climate Action Secretariat
Victoria

* Apply for this Job
* Job Search Wizard
* BC Public Service Agency offices

Opportunity:

The Province is taking action on climate change. We have established an ambitious agenda to meet or beat the best practices in North America for reducing carbon and other greenhouse gases.

You can share your passion for climate action and your innovative ideas by being part of a team that will ensure BC is at the forefront of environmental and economic leadership for years to come.

The Head of the Climate Action Secretariat will lead a dedicated team of public servants who will coordinate climate action activities across government, manage key cross-government projects, and offer policy support to all ministries as they apply their own mandates to help meet internal and external climate change targets.

In order to position BC relative to this agenda, you will be responsible for providing leadership that is outcome-focused and innovative in order to achieve the prescribed objectives and outcomes.

As a strategic leader you understand the challenges, complexities and issues inherent in addressing a broad policy challenge such as climate change. Your experience as a strategist and problem solver, combined with your ability to get results, have prepared you to take on this opportunity. In this role you will be accountable for developing and promoting strategies while securing support for the Secretariat's initiatives and must be comfortable in a high public profile position dealing with Ministers, government executives, the media, and a variety of stakeholders.

You will be able to demonstrate that at an executive level you can lead change, seek and quickly implement creative and practical ideas, inspire bold and imaginative thinking in your staff and stakeholders, and find better ways to work collaboratively in a dynamic organization.

You also will possess related post-secondary education and a range of competencies including leadership, strategic thinking, results orientation and relationship building and will have extensive senior management experience and have demonstrated success as a leader who has built teams and programs, and is strategic and outcome-oriented.

To express your interest in this opportunity, send your resume to LC@gov.bc.ca by May 7, 2007. Please identify salary expectations.

Competition: Head, Climate Action Secretariat
Closing Date: 2007-05-07

NOTE: This data provided for informational purposes only. The Province of British Columbia disclaims all responsibility for the accuracy of the information, and this information should not be used as a basis for making financial or any other commitments.