This morning, on Public Eye Radio, former United Church minister Kevin Annett discusses his film Unrepentant. Bruce Hallsor, honouray counsel for Scouts Canada, talks about how the taxman is threatening summer camps across the province. And federal Liberal Vancouver-Quadra candidate Joyce Murray reacts to the results of yesterday's Conservative nomination meeting in that riding. 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.
Prior to becoming the ministry of children and family development's top bureaucrat, Lesley du Toit was an associate with the International Institute for Child Rights and Development. She also co-wrote a chapter in the Handbook for Working with Children and Youth with the institute's executive director Philip Cook - having previously worked with him to develop a system in South Africa to "maximize the care of young people in communities." And now it looks like Dr. Cook and Ms. du Toit are together again. According to the institute's 2006-07 annual report, its been handed a $408,000, four-year project as part of the ministry of children and family development's transformation process.
The report states, as part of that project, Dr. Cook "has been seconded by the British Columbia Ministry of Children and Family Development for 1/3 of his time to support a 4 year province wide transformation process led by" Ms. du Toit. That support work, in part, includes "co-chairing the Transformation Task Team, leading a province wide assessment of What’s Working for Children and Families, and assisting with a regional Indigenous service delivery plan in North East British Columbia." The following is a complete copy of the relevant section of that report.
***
BC Ministry for Child and Family Development Transformation Task Team
Funders: BC Ministry for Child and Family Development
Length of Project: 2006-2010
Funds secured: $102,000/year
Partners: Deputy Minister, Regional Authorities
IICRD Executive Director Philip Cook has been seconded by the British Columbia Ministry of Children and Family Development for 1/3 of his time to support a 4 year province wide transformation process led by Deputy Minister, Lesley duToit. Philip Cook will be co-chairing the Transformation Task Team, leading a province wide assessment of What’s Working for Children and Families, and assisting with a regional Indigenous service delivery plan in North East British Columbia. In the Northeast region of British Columbia, the Ministry of Children and Family Development is moving forward with a regionalization plan to ensure that families and communities are actively engaged in influencing the government services they receive. IICRD has been invited to implement the Triple “A” participatory action research process with Treaty Eight First Nations, Urban Aboriginal Agencies, and Metis Organizations, working in 14 North Eastern communities. Over the next year, the team will work closely with youth, Elders, and children’s care providers in these communities to provide training and develop services that build on existing cultural strengths to meet the needs of children and their families.
The provincial Green's nomination committee will be looking into whether any their leadership candidates have abused the party's membership rules. At issue: the Greens have a $10 membership fee. But members can "request" that fee be "waived on the basis of low income" or financial hardship - a request that's always granted. In an interview with Public Eye, interim party leader Christopher Ian Bennett confirmed that's because the Greens have no means of checking the income levels for incoming members. And now there's concern some leadership candidates may have used that loophole to encourage supporters to sign-up on the cheap.
Mr. Bennett says anyone who is found to have abused the waiver policy may face disciplinary action from the committee. And, to prevent something similar from happening in the future, he's planning on introducing a resolution at the party's upcoming annual general meeting requiring everyone to pay the party's $10 membership fee - no ifs, ands, or buts. The following is a complete draft of that resolution.
***
Change to Policy - Motion regarding Membership and Fees ´
So that GPBC begins to resemble other political parties and non-profits, it needs to , distinguish between ‘supporters’ and members, by defining supporters as those people who support the general principles of the organization and who may or may not volunteer, who may or may not financially support the organization and who do not participate in policy and decision-making. There are no fees associated with public supporters of the Green Party of BC.
Members will be persons who will be called upon to volunteer for the Party, who can be asked to financially support the Party, and who will be requested to participate in internal organizational decision´-making through their CA’s, Provincial Council, the Leader and policy-making at Annual General Meetings.
To support members’ participation in the Party, they will receive administrative, organizational and communication assistance. In order to provide, plan for and budget for these supports and their attendant expenses, a nominal membership fee will be charged to all members.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT All members of the Green Party of BC will pay annual membership dues of $10.
The provincial New Democrat's political fortunes have taken a turn for the worse, as of late. According to the most recent Mustel Research Group Ltd. poll, if an election were held tomorrow, just 32 percent of British Columbians would vote for the party compared with 50 percent for the Liberals. So you'd think the New Democrats would be pulling out all the stops to prepare for the upcoming legislative session. But you'd be wrong. Because it turns three of the opposition's caucus staffers - including senior communications officer Rich Overgaard - have been granted a leave of absence to work on the New Democrat election campaign in, er, Ontario.
Asked for comment, senior communications advisor Jim Rutkowski said, "We've got a great team, as you know, of energetic young people who are burning the midnight oil getting prepared for the session. That session is in two weeks. And we'll be ready." Also working on the Ontario campaign - where the New Democrats are presently polling at 18 percent in a three party race - are caucus communications officer Tim Renneberg and research officer Adrienne Smith.
Former VanCity Credit Union chair David Levi has built his company GrowthWorks Ltd. into the second-largest manager of labour-sponsored investment funds in the country. And now "three or four" civic-minded Vancouverites are suggesting he should take his talents to the mayor's office. In an interview Public Eye, Mr. Levi confirmed "folks who would normally be supporters of the NPA and Vision/COPE" have approached him about seeking the post "over the last few weeks." Characterizing the talks as "very preliminary," Mr. Levi said he told his suitors, "'That's interesting. And I'll think about it. I've got a lot of responsibilities where I am today. And I enjoy what I do. So it's something that I'll give some thought to.' But it hasn't gone much further than that."
Noting this wasn't anything he had "planned to think about," Mr. Levi said he'll be reviewing "the whole notion of what I think I can offer and what it would mean" to run for mayor before making a decision. "It would be a huge change in my life. And I really need to think about whether that's something I want to do." In 1990, Mr. Levi ran as a city council candidate as a member of the now defunct Civic New Democrat slate.
Stephane Dion's leadership is unquestionably problematic for the federal Liberals. But the real problem is the party, drunk on its own bathwater, has spent the last 13 years winning elections because the opposition couldn't mount a credible united front. To blame the party's dismal showing in the recent Quebec by-elections on Mr. Dion's leadership - or residual bickering from the last leadership race - is only the most recent example of "inebriated" reasoning. The fact is, with the exception of the 2000 election, the Liberals have not been the majority party of Quebec since the 1980 election.
That's almost 30 years of not being the major federal party in the province. Put in that perspective, the sponsorship scandal can be seen for what it was: less a cause and more an example of why the party has had problems in Quebec. To win votes in that province, federalist parties have always had to do more than simply tell Quebecois to be more Canadian (by giving them flags for example). They've needed to clearly demonstrate why they should be Canadian. And the last politician to do so convincingly was Brian Mulroney. This, despite the amount of time Liberal Prime Minister Paul Martin had to prepare for the job.
But what was even more shocking during the Martin administration was the arrogance that permeated everything and everyone "Liberal" - something Conservative leader Stephen Harper focused on successfully in the 2006 campaign.
If any two phrases from the election are still remembered, they are likely: "I am entitled to my entitlements" and a suggestion parents would spend child care dollars "on beer and popcorn". Combined, those statements said Liberals are special and the public are not. And the fact that neither originated with an elected official reinforced an impression that the Liberals had become the captive of self-interested backroom hacks.
Still, the 2006 election result was interpreted by many Liberals as a mild rebuke, since Mr. Harper was held to a minority government status. But a closer look at the results reveals a different story. The Liberals registered their lowest level of support ever. A popular vote of 30.2 per cent was not as low as their worst popular vote, the 28 per cent recorded in 1984. However, in 1984 voter turnout was 75.3 per cent versus 64.9 per cent in the 2006 election.
So it was surprising, during the Liberal's subsequent convention, only leadership candidate Gerard Kennedy chose to even mention the party's recent defeat - this, to a room full of delegates carrying on as if they were choosing the next prime minister rather than someone able to right a ship that was sinking.
And the arrogance continued after delegates choose Mr. Dion, who was positioned as a ticket to the future because he was so "green." When Canadians listened to him, however, what they heard was a voice from the past: a defence of the environmental record of the previous government. This, being the same government Canadians had just sent to the wood shed. And Mr. Dion's defence suggested the Liberals believed the voter, not the party, was at fault for their recent electoral defeat.
Since then, the Liberals have done little more than counterpunch the government - talking about the Harper administration's agenda because they have none of their own. New ideas only come from new people and the Liberal Party has too few. It is instead the captive of people wanting to preserve or enhance their importance inside a party that is rapidly becoming less and less relevant.
All that's left really is the undeniable strength of the Liberal brand. But that is getting weaker as traditional adherents to it grow older and presumably some of them impatient. And then there's that little matter of money. The new fundraising rules mean party balance sheets should reflect their level of popular support. And the fact that Liberal's sheet is so shoddy means the party has a lot more problems than their man at the top.
Bob Russell, a businessman and former civil servant, was chief of staff for the provincial Liberals in Alberta from 1986 to 1989. In 2004, he ran for the federal Liberal nomination in Saanich-Gulf Islands.
Earlier this month, Fraser Health Board chair Gordon Barefoot was "pleased" to announce the appointment of New Zealand physician and health administrator Nigel Murray as the authority's new chief executive office. But, down under, at least one Kiwi is pleased to see the back of him. Prior to his new appointment, Mr. Murray had been the chief negotiator for New Zealand's 21 district health boards. And, in that capacity, he had been involved in labour talks with the country's senior doctors - talks that have been at a stalemate. Asked for comment on Mr. Murray's departure, Association of Salaried Medical Specialists executive director Ian Powell - who speaks on behalf of those doctors - said "good riddance." This, according to Radio New Zealand, whose health correspondent noted "senior doctors disliked (Mr. Murray) intensely." The following is a complete copy of that article.
Senior doctors say the sudden surprise resignation of a district health board leader may provide for a break-through in their stalled pay talks.
The spokesman on industrial relations for the district health boards - Southland DHB chief executive Nigel Murray - resigned on Wednesday and leaves for a job in Canada at the end of the month. Mr Murray says that he has "pressing family requirements" and is not elaborating; he's taken a job as president and chief executive of the Fraser Health Authority in British Columbia.
Mr Murray has been in charge at Southland DHB for about a year and led the DHBs' side in talks with junior doctors that ended last year in a settlement after a bitter strike. He forged a deal with nurses that was ratified last week, and was heading talks with senior doctors that are at a stalemate.
Wairarapa DHB chief executive David Meates will now be the lead negotiator.
Senior doctors said last night through their spokesman, Ian Powell, that they're pleased to see the back of Dr Murray - "good riddance" were their words.
Radio New Zealand's health correspondent says senior doctors disliked him intensely.
But the DHBs say nothing will change and reiterate that a wage settlement needs to be around 4% all up on an annualised basis for a three-year term - not any higher. They say the doctors want just over 7% - that's disputed by the doctors.
This morning, on Public Eye Radio, we'll be mixing it up with interim provincial Green leader Christopher Ian Bennett. Merit commissioner Joy Illington discusses the results of her recent annual report. And David Shishcoff, the Canadian correspondent for Friends of Animals, talks about why the promotion of vegetarianism should be government policy. 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.
Carnivorous Canadians may have to be pay more to satisfy their hunger pains if the federal Greens ever form government. In an email responding to suggestions the party should be promoting vegetarianism, agriculture critic Kate Storey stated the Green's shadow cabinet "essentially agree" they should advocate "to remove subsidies, tax breaks and support programs for industrial meat production. This reduces the supply of cheap meat which then influences the consumer to buy less."
Continued Ms. Storey, "A ban on meat is dictatorial. I think that it is preferable to change consumer choice by offering better alternatives than by controlling their choice. The Green party needs to be careful to leave command and control politics to the likes of (Conservative Prime Minister) Stephen Harper."
In an interview with Public Eye, Ms. Storey said it "will be up to the members" to determine what the Green's policy on industrial meat production should be. As for her personal opinion on vegetarianism, the critic stated, "I personally think (food choice) should be up to the individual…And to just come out and say everyone should be vegetarians isn't really feasible. But there are a lot of problems with our industrial meat production. And rather than saying all meat is bad, I would prefer to look at the industry and say, 'What's allowing them to overproduce and what effect is it having on our society and our health as well.'"
On Monday, Public Eye was the first to tell you the New Democrat's provincial council resolved to "oppose the Campbell government's 'Gateway Program'." But some of the party's constituency associations would have preferred a more nuanced position. In advance of the same council meeting, Surrey-Newton introduced a resolution that would seen the party "support the building of rapid transit and the twinning of the Port Mann Bridge, in such a manner as to encourage the preservation of farm lands and the promotion of high density residential land use." And another resolution, sponsored by Surrey-Whalley and Port Coquitlam-Burke Mountain, called on the New Democrats to "not oppose the twinning of the Port Mann Bridge." But those two resolutions never made it to the floor because the council decided to oppose Gateway. The following is a complete copy of both resolutions.
TWINNING THE PORT MANN BRIDGE
Submitted by: Surrey Whalley; Port
Coquitlam Burke Mountain
Date: August 24, 2007
WHEREAS a sustainable transportation and use plan for the lower mainland is required for the future orderly and environmentally sound growth of the region and;
WHEREAS the BC NDP publicly supported many of the elements of the current Gateway plan in the 2005 campaign including the south Fraser perimeter road, the north Fraser perimeter road , and the Pitt river bridge among others
and;
WHEREAS many people in the suburbs of the lower mainland are frustrated by relentless traffic congestion and therefore support solutions to reduce congestion and;
WHEREAS a significant increase in the development of the public transit network in the northeast sector and south of the Fraser is required to make public transit a desirable choice for many citizens and;
WHEREAS personal safety on Skytrain and buses is a concern for both transit user and bus drivers;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED the BC NDP support an expanded, safe and affordable public transit system serving all parts of the region, and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED the BC NDP not oppose the twinning of the Port Mann Bridge.
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TRANSPORTATION PLAN
Submitted by: Surrey Newton
Date: August 24, 2007
WHERE AS: an effective Transportation Plan requires the ability to move people and goods in an efficient and timely manner and is crucial to the long term needs of the public and British Columbia's economy; and
WHERE AS: both rapid transit and a comprehensive network of roads and bridges are crucial to an effective transportation plan; and
WHERE AS: effective land use regulations such as high density development and the protection of ALR lands go hand in hand with transportation planning;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED: that the BC NDP support the building of rapid transit and the twinning of the Port Mann Bridge, in such a manner as to encourage the preservation of farm lands and the promotion of high density residential land use.
Last month, Michael Ignatieff made national headlines after suggesting the federal Liberals should adopt the puffin as their symbol. Said the former party leadership candidate, "They lay one egg (each year). They put their excrement in one place. They hide their excrement...They flap their wings very hard and they work like hell.” Not exactly the best choice of words. But rather than hiding this particular piece of excrement, Mr. Ignatieff's supporters seem determined to remind party members of his gaffe. The evidence: last week, local Liberals received invitations to attend an Ignatieff fundraiser at the Vancouver Public Aquarium - invitations that featured two puffin photographs. The following is a complete copy of the text of that invitation, which also misspells Mr. Ignatieff's last name.
YOU ARE INVITED TO A
RECEPTION
with
Special Guests &
Michael Ignatieff, M.P., Ph.D.
Deputy Leader, Liberal Party of Canada
speaking on
“The Canada We Want –
The Canada Our World Needs”
Vancouver Public Aquarium, Stanley Park
Thursday, October 11th, 6 pm
“British Columbia is booming. Canada is poised for greatness. It is time for us to address the challenges we still face: developing our resources in a sustainable economy, harnessing our brain power, exerting our
leadership on the world stage, and making sure that every Canadian gets the chance to realize his or her potential.”
Michael Ignatieff, September 2007
Member of Parliament (Etobicoke-Lakeshore)
Michael Ignatieff knows the challenges we face as Canadians. He put himself forward to lead the Liberal Party and Canada last year, and in doing so he made a profound commitment to all Canadians. Canada needs leaders of Michael’s stature, abilities and vision.
In order to attract and keep his caliber of leadership, we need to stand behind Michael Ignatieff for the financial obligations he made on our behalf while seeking to represent our aspirations and to lead Parliament and the country.
Join with us at one of Vancouver’s favourite landmarks for a major address by an exceptional thinker who today is one of Canada’s leading public intellectuals and politicians. This occasion is certain to be memorable. Come out to welcome Michael and hear his thoughtful interpretation on the critical issues of our time. Participate in this unique opportunity to probe his thinking about the challenges this country faces. Share with Michael Ignatieff your ideas on the Canada we have and the Canada we want for our children and grandchildren.
Tickets for this event are $200 per person. Tax receipts will be issued for an amount net of costs. Payment must be by advance cheque or personal credit card.
If you cannot attend personally, but would like to contribute your ticket to make it possible for a young Canadian student to attend the event, please indicate your wishes on the form below.
To reserve tickets we ask you to print and complete the registration form found below and send it via facsimile to: 604-608-6157 or via mail to MICHAEL IGNATIEFF Vancouver Reception c/o Gerry Lenoski, Suite 1000—355 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6C 2G8
If you have any questions, please contact Gerry Lenoski at 604-813-1762.
Note: As of January 1, 2007, regulations for political contributions changed. The limit for contributions to leadership campaigns is $1,100.00. Corporate contributions are prohibited. Tax credits are issued as follows: 75% of the first $400.00, 50% on the next $350.00 and 33.5% on an amount over $750.00 and not exceeding $1,100.00 For example a $200 contribution will cost you $50.00 and a $750.00 contribution will cost you $275.00. If you are unsure if you have met your contribution limit or are interested in other ways of helping Michael meet his outstanding obligations, please be sure to call Gerry Lenoski.
Please confirm your attendance by Wednesday October 3rd, 2007.
Thank you.
V. Philip Boname, Chair
Organizing Committee
MICHAEL INGNATIEFF Vancouver Reception
Earlier, we exclusively reported the New Democrat's provincial council endorsed a resolution calling on the party to "oppose the Campbell government's ‘Gateway Program.'" But does that represent caucus's position on the matter? In an interview with Public Eye, New Democrat transportation critic Maurine Karagianis said, "I think that certainly the party has made it clear what their stand is. And I think that's going to be certainly one of the resources that we look at as we go forward with a transportation strategy. But I think it only forms part of that. We've already been quite clear that there are a number of things within the Gateway plan that we do support and some things we don't support. And, certainly, (party leader) Carole (James) is going to have something to say about that very soon - as will I. But, at this point, there was nothing in the resolution that we felt constrained us moving forward with a more comprehensive transportation strategy."
Earlier this month, provincial New Democrat legislator Michael Sather was temporarily suspended from caucus "as a result of his decision to vote against the Tsawwassen Treaty when it comes to the Legislature this fall." But it seems opposition legislators aren't encouraged to take have an independent voice outside the legislature either. In an email sent to MLAs in advance of this weekend's provincial council meeting, caucus whip Katrine Conroy tells them "we will not be speaking to the motions on Gateway" - which had been introduced to both support and oppose the highway expansion project (in whole or in part). "The last thing we need right now is a debate on the floor of proicncial (sic) council between MLA's. Everyone on both sides please respect this."
The email also informs MLAs the emergency resolution calling for a free vote on the Tsawwassen Final Agreement "will most likely be up first. (House leader Mike) Farnworth will be speaking to it on behalf of caucus, that's it. If it is going sidewise we might put up a few more" speakers. The following is a complete copy of the aforementioned email.
***
From: Conroy, Katrine
Sent: Sat 9/15/2007 10:47
To: NDP MLAs - PRIVATE & C. of S. & Ex Dir
Subject: Provincial Council
We need to be here this afternoon for the Nomination Review committee report, the EBC report and then the motions. The emergency motion will most likely be up first. Mike will be speaking to it on behalf of caucus, that's it. If it is going sidewise we might put up a few more.
We will not be speaking to the motions on Gateway. The last thing we need right now is a debate on the floor of proicncial council between MLA's. Everyone on both sides please respect this.
Tomorrow the policy development committee are meeting the list of the meeting rooms are on the check in tables. Co chairs need to be at those meetings. Thanks, kat
The New Democrat's provincial council has endorsed a resolution calling on the party to "oppose the Campbell government's ‘Gateway Program'," Public Eye has exclusively learned. The resolution, which was passed at a closed door meeting on Saturday at the Empire Landmark Hotel, also calls on the party to propose an alternative to the government's highway expansion initiative. That alternative plan would see a "major expansion of public transit, including the long delayed rapid transit Evergreen Line and very significant improvements to bus service south of the Fraser River." And it would commit the New Democrats to "maintain the integrity of ALR lands, protect Burns Bog, and respect the spirit and letter of the Livable Region Strategic Plan." Party transportation critic Maurine Karagianis hasn't yet returned a call placed late yesterday. The following is a complete copy of the aforementioned resolution.
THE GATEWAY PROGRAM
Submitted by: SCOE; SCOA
Date: August 24, 2007
WHEREAS the Campbell Government plans to impose on the Lower Mainland a vast agenda of highways, bridges and port expansion that it calls "The Gateway Program;" and
WHEREAS "The Gateway Program" will twin the Port Mann Bridge and double the width of the Trans-Canada highway between Langley and Vancouver, thereby promoting increased suburban sprawl throughout the Fraser Valley; and
WHEREAS "The Gateway Program" includes a route for the South Fraser Perimeter Road that will pave 260 acres of prime ALR farmland and further compromise the integrity of Burns Bog; and
WHEREAS "The Gateway Program" undermines, nullifies or reverses:
* planning goals of municipalities of the Greater Vancouver Regional District,
* the GVRD "Livable Region" plan, including its commitment to densification and program of rapid transit facilities between compact communities,
* the protection of farmland as required by the Agricultural Land Commission Act,
* the declared goal of the Liberal Government to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and
* the protection of Burns Bog as committed to by the Campbell government; and
WHEREAS "The Gateway Program" will:
* promote rapid urban sprawl in the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley,
* encourage increased automobile travel,
* promote truck transport at the expense of rail,
* increase greenhouse gas emissions, airborne pollutants and smog in the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley,
* reduce biodiversity of highly productive delta lands and foreshore, and jeopardize habitat for millions of migratory wildfowl,
* destroy shallows at the mouth of the Fraser River essential to migrating salmon, and
* eliminate choices from future generations by locking in unsustainable transportation and urban development patterns; and
WHEREAS independent studies demonstrate that increasing road capacity does not reduce congestion over the long term, but actually generates more car and truck traffic; and
WHEREAS the Port Mann/Highway 1 expansion components of "The Gateway Program" proposed by the Campbell government are opposed by the Greater Vancouver Regional District, the majority of individual municipalities within the GVRD, and many citizens' groups throughout the region; and
WHEREAS "The Gateway Program" will be a public-private partnership (P3) , thereby resulting in higher costs, reduced public accountability and increased private control of public transportation;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the BC NDP oppose the Campbell government's "Gateway Program"; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the BC NDP propose an alternative to "The Gateway Program," that reflects the principles of Sustainable BC, with specific emphasis on the principles of:
Ecosystem Protection: As the life support system for all species including humanity, the environment must not be subjected to pollution or other degradation of air, water or soil beyond that which can be safely absorbed or renewed by nature;
Protection for the "Commons:" Shared public trusts like water, air, fish and wildlife; our heritage of parks and protected areas; cultural and intellectual assets; and amenities such as health care, education, public utilities and infrastructure, must be held and managed in the public interest over and above any private or individual interests;
Food Security: A protected agricultural land base, environmentally sustainable farm practices and economic viability for food producers will result in more healthful food for consumers and increased local and provincial food self-sufficiency, which is essential for a sustainable society;
Full Cost Economics: Short and long term environmental, social and economic impacts need to be taken into account at both the local and the provincial level. This requires true costs to be accurately reflected in the price of all goods and services in order to discourage pollution and resource waste, and encourage innovation, socially and environmentally responsible behaviour, and true progress toward sustainability;
Just Transition: Mechanisms must be in place to manage the transition toward Sustainable BC so that everyone takes responsibility and no one bears an unfair share of the burden of change; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the BC NDP alternative to "The Gateway Program" be grounded within a comprehensive transportation demand management (TDM) strategy that includes, but is not limited to, the following elements:
- Fundamental commitment to maintain the integrity of ALR lands, protect Burns Bog, and respect the spirit and letter of the Livable Region Strategic Plan;
- Major expansion of public transit, including the long delayed rapid transit Evergreen Line and very significant improvements to bus service south of the Fraser River;
- Defined shift away from single-occupancy automobile travel, utilizing a variety of TDM tools such as public demand management tolling, reduced-cost bus passes and congestion charges to reduce traffic during peak periods based on the principles that a) all fees collected through TDM measures go to accountable public agencies to be used to fund sustainable, publicly operated transportation alternatives; b) any tolling be system-wide and used to reduce overall single-occupancy vehicle traffic, not simply to pay for specific transportation projects; and c) just transition strategies be implemented to minimize impacts on those affected by new TDM measures;
- Sustained investment in cycling infrastructure to promote cycling as a viable alternative to automobile travel throughout the Lower Mainland;
- Shift in emphasis away from truck transport towards an integrated rail-focused system for shipping goods and linking suppliers with the port system; and
- Publicly owned, built and operated transportation system that is subject to full-cost accounting analysis of all projects to determine true environmental, social and economic benefits and costs.
cope15
Three New Democrat constituency associations will be setting a cat among the pigeons at this weekend's provincial council meeting. In this case, the cat is an emergency resolution requesting party leader Carole James "and the BC NDP Official Opposition Caucus hold a free vote in the BC Legislature on the issue of the Tsawwassen Treaty." Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows legislator Michael Sather was recently temporarily suspended from caucus "as a result of his decision to vote against the Tsawwassen Treaty when it comes to the Legislature this fall for a ratification vote." Ms. James has said the treaty will not be the subject of a free vote. Not surprisingly, Mr. Sather's constituency association is among those sponsoring the resolution. The following is a complete copy of that document.
EMERGENCY RESOLUTION REQUESTING A FREE VOTE
Submitted by: Abbotsford-Clayburn
Coquitlam-Maillardville
Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows
Standing Committee on Agriculture (SCOA)
West Vancouver-Capilano
WHEREAS the BC NDP has a long history of supporting and valuing First Nations treaty negotiations;
AND WHEREAS the BC NDP, as the founding Party of the Agricultural Land Reserve, values agriculture and those who farm those lands;
AND WHEREAS the BC NDP holds these two values as core values within the Party;
AND WHEREAS the Tsawwassen First Nations ratified the Tsawwassen First Nations Agreement (“Tsawwassen Treaty”) negotiated with the BC Liberal and Federal Conservative Governments on July 25, 2007;
AND WHEREAS the Tsawwassen Treaty calls for the removal of 511 acres from the Agricultural Land Reserve for a use other than farming (a shipping container parking lot);
AND WHEREAS the Tsawwassen Treaty has brought the BC NDP to a difficult divergence of values;
AND WHEREAS support for treaty negotiations and agriculture are of equal importance to members of the New Democrat Party of British Columbia;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the BC NDP Provincial Council requests that the Leader of the Provincial NDP and the BC NDP Official Opposition Caucus hold a free vote in the BC Legislature on the issue of the Tsawwassen Treaty.
British Columbia Magazine's editor says her publication likely won't run a story about the controversial Flathead Valley because a competitor beat them to the punch. In an interview with Public Eye, Anita Willis explained the award-winning magazine (which is owned by Tourism British Columbia, a Crown corporation) doesn't "like to run things where there's already been significant coverage" - referring to a similar article that appeared in the Summer 2007 edition of Westworld Magazine.
And because of that, it's unlikely the British Columbia Magazine article will see the light of day. "If we could find a way to do it that would make it significantly different enough or if something major and new was to happen that would make our story different enough from their piece then maybe," Mr. Willis explained.
But were there any concerns expressed about running a piece on the Flathead? After all, coal development projects in the region have stirred up opposition from both environmentalists and the Montana government. "That's not really the issue," responded Ms. Willis. "We have a conversation about sort of every editorial line-up that's coming up. And we look at that internally. I think you might be looking for something that isn't there. That's the sense I get." The following is a complete transcript of that interview.
***
Public Eye I understand B.C. Magazine was going to publish an article on the Flathead. But that article was pulled. I'm just curious as to why that might have been?
Ms. Willis That's actually not quite the case.
Public Eye What happened?
Ms. Willis I'm interested to know why you're interested in our editorial line-up.
Public Eye I'm just fascinated by that decision that's all. I mean, the Flathead is a beautiful area of British Columbia. One might think B.C. Magazine would be interested in profiling it.
Ms. Willis Well, we cover all parts of the province. Again, I'm interested in whether the timing or publication of our articles is general news?
Public Eye My fascination extends far and wide. I'm a curious reporter - as most reporters are. So I'm curious as to what might have happened with the article?
Ms. Willis I'm not really comfortable talking about our line-up. We tend to not share our editorial line-up because we tend to get scooped on stories when we talk about things publicly.
Public Eye You mentioned that wasn't entirely accurate - that the article wasn't going to run. So what exactly did happen to the article?
Ms. Willis Well, we actually still have a piece. We haven't decided what to do with it. One of the issues is that another magazine scooped us. Which, obviously, is not desirable. So it's kind of sitting in the bank at the moment.
Public Eye Which magazine was that?
Ms. Willis That's Westworld - which is one of our direct competitors.
Public Eye Primary competitors. So that article was originally scheduled to be in the coming edition of B.C. Magazine. And because a similar article appeared in Westworld it was killed?
Ms. Willis Well, we don't like to run things where there's already been significant coverage. So we're sort of looking at different ways to deal with the Rocky Mountain area. We have a couple other things we're going to be looking at.
Public Eye I understand. I totally understand. So do you anticipate B.C. Magazine will run a piece on the Flathead in the future or probably not given the fact Westworld already did?
Ms. Willis I'm not sure. If we could find a way to do it that would make it significantly different enough or if something major and new was to happen that would make our story different enough from their piece, then maybe.
Public Eye Possibly. But it likely wouldn't be the same piece that was written?
Ms. Willis Probably not.
Public Eye Interesting. Was there any concerns expressed at a higher level regarding running a piece on the Flathead? I mean, obviously this is a pretty contentious area of the province in terms of development and environmental sensitivities and Montana.
Ms. Willis Yeah, that hasn't stopped us from doing other types of stories. We had a story on Betty Krawczyk in a recent issue. She's pretty contentious. That's not really the issue.
Public Eye Okay. Was there any concern expressed from the top about that?
Ms. Willis I don't… We have a conversation about sort of every editorial line-up that's coming up. And we look at that internally. I think you might be looking for something that isn't there. That's the sense I get.
Public Eye Right. Right. I'm always curious. I always have to ask these questions. So that means there wasn't any concerns raised about that particular issue?
Ms. Willis That wasn't the reason why we decided not to go with it.
Public Eye But there wasn't any concerns raised though?
Ms. Willis We talk internally about all of our stories. I don't want to suggest that we don't ever talk about whether a story has ramifications or not.
Public Eye I'm just curious because it's two separate questions. One is whether or not the decision to not run the article was because of Westworld. That's one question. And the other question is whether there were any concerns raised from Tourism British Columbia, for example, about the political sensitivities involved in that particular region.
Ms. Willis I wouldn't say that was an issue.
The provincial New Democrat's decision to temporarily suspend MLA Michael Sather from caucus is raising larger concerns about the state of democracy in British Columbia. In an email to Public Eye, former cabinet minister Tom Perry said, "I think the NDP harms itself and its credibility with voters by insiting on uniformity. This is one reason why the Eastern European regimes failed. After all, they started out with largely good intentions."
"I think the legislature ought to have meaningful insight of important and irreversible legislation," he continued. "If (legislators) don't exercise (their right to vote), why do we need a legislature at all? Why not just use a presidential/arch-ruler system, where we vote every four years for a very limited choice and do what we are told? The approach that "father knows best (where) we are not allowed to ask questions other than, 'When do we get some more candy?' demeans the legislature, the electors who select it and guarantees that we get decisions and policies that are less good than they might be if scrutinized more carefully."
That being said, Dr. Perry says he doesn't "fault (New Democrat leader) Carole James" for the situation "nor am I critical of her overall leadership. I'm not impressed with her advisers on this issue, as the suspension by the leader of one MLA does not strike me as consistent with the style she announced in 2003 or 2005. I fault the caucus for going along with an archaic and bullying approach to differences of opinion."
Earlier, we noted the University of British Columbia Golf Course would be hosting the provincial Liberal's annual Leader's Open Golf Tournament. This being the same venue the provincial government is expected to cede to the Musqueam First Nation. Asked for comment, Save the UBC Golf Course organizer Bob Hindmarch said, "I think it's ironic that they want to take away golf course and now they're going to use it. And it's the very thing we've been telling an awful lot of people. That golf course is used a great deal by charities to raise money for not just this side of the city but the whole city."
The Tsawwassen Final Agreement will see 207 hectares removed from the agricultural land reserve and, possibly, developed - something that should be a significant concern for environmentalists. After all, just last year, the David Suzuki Foundation released a report declaring, "The best, most productive agricultural lands have intrinsic values that should be protected into perpetuity - once developed they can never be adequately recovered or restored." But many of British Columbia's major environmental groups - including the foundation - haven't come out swinging against the treaty.
Speaking with Public Eye, foundation communication specialist Ian Hanington explained, "We haven't really been involved in the Tsawwassen Treaty issue - other than to say the David Suzuki Foundation does support the settlement of treaties in B.C. and in Canada. And that's about as far as we'll go with that."
For her part, Sierra Club of Canada British Columbia chapter executive director Kathryn Malloy said, "We just do not have enough information (to comment). We haven't been on this in any substantive way. So we don't feel we're qualified to make a comment."
Meanwhile, West Coast Environmental Law Research Foundation executive director Patricia Chew stated, "We don't have a position on it, no. We believe in the resolution of aboriginal title and rights claims. And we like to see them resolved. And we do work on that behalf. And there are bound to be some changes when people do get their title back. But there's nothing, as yet, to show the (Tsawwassen First Nation) are going to manage their lands in a less responsible way than a non-aboriginal" government.
In fact, the only major environmental group that appears to have expressed concern about the agreement is Western Canada Wilderness Committee. Asked why that might be, committee national campaign director Joe Foy acknowledged there's too many issues and too few resources to go around among the treehugging community.
That being said though, "I believe they need to take a position on the Tsawwassen Treaty. Having taken a position, I know it's a very, very hard thing to do. It was extremely hard for the wilderness committee because of the amount of work we do with First Nations and the First Nations allies we've had since our very beginning. Not an easy decision. But bottom line is environmental groups have to make a decision and speak out."
Interim provincial Green leader Christopher Ian Bennett seems to have come down with a case of foot-in-mouth disease. Earlier this year, he suggested the party should reverse its policy against accepting corporate donations. And, just last week, he sang the praises of Premier Gordon Campbell to The Georgia Straight's Carlito Pablo. All of which doesn't sit well with leadership crandidate Ben West.
Speaking with Public Eye, Mr. West said, "I've become increasingly concerned with Chris Bennett's comments - which I think have been harmful to the party and the province. Though I respect his passion, I've become increasingly concerned with his analysis. I don't think we should be giving thanks to the Liberals for lip service. The real credit should go to the voters for pushing a climate change denying government to make statements that make it sound like they support environmental issues and environmental concerns. I've decided I need to make it my job to stand up for the values of the party. And, unfortunately, that's become more and more of a pressing issue as Chris Bennett continues to make these comments."
Back in June, Christian Coalition of Canada British Columbia executive director Len Remple organized a forum in Abbotsford to "help make parents and others aware of the implications of the Corren Settlement Agreement." That agreement has been a source of controversy amongst social conservatives, who are concerned the resulting social justice course could be used by some teachers to train "a small cadre of students...to exert a great influence in the school, for example in the area of the acceptance of homosexual behaviour as normal." But what was Minister of State for Intergovernmental Affairs John Van Dongen doing at that forum, you may wonder? In a statement emailed to Public Eye, Minister Van Dongen explained, "In my constituency there was a lot of misinformation circulating about the implications of the Correns Agreement. I attended the July 5 meeting to set the record straight on what it is and what it is not."
The Tsawwassen First Nation's decision to ratify their treaty settlement means there will be a fall legislative sitting. But when will that sitting get underway? Well, most members of the chattering classes are betting the answer to that question will be later rather than soon. And our understanding is those bets will be settled sometime this week - possibly as early as tomorrow following the conclusion of the provincial Liberal's caucus retreat at Harrison Hot Springs.
In 2005, 660 votes meant the difference between a win for provincial New Democrat legislator Claire Trevena and a loss for incumbent legislator Rod Visser. And that marginal victory has some wondering who will run for the Liberals in North Island during the next election. One suggestion: constituency association president Barb Walker, who helped found the First Dollar Alliance. Asked whether she was interested in the nomination, Ms. Walker said, "I think it's awfully early for anybody to be entertaining the question myself. And what I would say about it is I hope a lot of people are considering it."
But has she given any personal consideration to the question? "Well, I think anybody who pays close attention to what's going on probably gives thought to these types of issues everytime an election comes up. I know I certainly gave thought to it in the last two. So, yeah, it would be fair to say I've given thought to it in this one too. But the most important thing is, for me, to participate. So I will be participating but, at what level, who knows." Ms. Walker's association made a splash at the Liberal's last biennial convention, distributing packages of farmed salmon in support of its salmon aquaculture resolution. The electoral boundaries commission is proposing to add Mount Waddington Regional District’s Electoral Area A to the riding.
Michael Sather says his temporary suspension from the New Democrat caucus will "factor in" when he thinks about running for re-election. In an interview with Public Eye over the weekend, the first-term MLA - who was suspended after refusing support the Tsawassen First Nation Treaty in the legislature - also questioned New Democrat leader Carole James's decision to not allow a free vote on the issue.
"I think she got worried about the media perception of her about being indecisive or changing her mind. So she thought that she was going to be showing herself to be strong on this issue. But the problem is we're putting all our eggs in the treaty basket and no eggs in the ALR basket. And that doesn't work for this party," said Mr. Sather.
And he also raised concerns about the notion of caucus solidarity. "I understand fully the reasons for caucus solidarity," he stated. "Obviously, if the caucus is singing two different tunes you do leave yourself open to criticism by the media. On the other hand, I'm thinking that the people at large - our population, our citizenry - is getting fed up with the lack openness in politics in general. And certainly one of the strongest things I heard from people (before being suspended) was, 'Good for you Michael for standing up for the ALR. That's important.'"
"But, even more sigificantly, they believe by not having a free vote that it's undemocratic. So they don't understand or perhaps subscribe to the belief that everyone has to vote in a monolithic fashion. So I think that's something for politicians to take note of. You know, if you notice with the climate change issue, politicians were behind the public all over the place. And maybe they're behind the public too when it comes to openness and democracy in our political system."
That being said, Mr. Sather doesn't hold out much hope for change. "I never say impossible. But I'm certainly not holding my breath for it to happen that's for sure. It's an ingrained system. And it really is difficult to operate in another fashion. But a lot of things are difficult. Challenging global warming is difficult. But we have to come to terms with some of these issues. And I think the political system needs to be improved markedly."
Last week, provincial New Democrat leader Carole James announced Maple-Ridge Pitt Meadows MLA Michael Sather had been suspended from caucus until "the conclusion of this year’s fall sitting of the Legislature." But, despite the temporary nature of that suspension, it seems Mr. Sather's name has been stricken from the New Democrat's Website. The legislator is no longer listed on being a member of the "NDP team."
The provincial government's expected decision to cede the University of British Columbia Golf Course to the Musqueam First Nation has been a source of much controversy in the premier's riding. And Gordon Campbell will have an ideal opportunity to think about that controversy this coming Friday. After all, that's when the course will be playing host to the Liberal's annual Leader's Open Golf Tournament, which raised $262,520.62 for the Liberals last year.
This morning, on Public Eye Radio, former provincial mental health advocate Nancy Hall joins us to discuss plans to upgrade British Columbia's mental health plan. And 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.
In 2002, the Campbell administration announced it would be allocating $138 million over six years to fund the New Democrat-authored 1998 mental health plan - which is about to be updated. But an investigation by Public Eye suggests the Liberals have done little to publicly report on the progress of that plan or the state of mental health care in British Columbia.
The plan committed the health ministry to "report every two years on progress towards (the) achievement of (the) vision and outcomes" in that document. And it promised the ministry would report annually "on the status of the Riverview Hospital Replacement and re-investment project" - part of the province's effort to decentralize mental health services. But the administration did neither.
A government spokesperson said that's because the Liberals use ministry service plans as their preferred method of accountability rather than annual reports for specific program areas. But the health ministry's service plan has included fewer and fewer mental health performance measures. In 2002, there were five. Now there's just one. And the Liberals have failed to follow through on their own commitments to monitor the sector.
In the 2002 budget, the health ministry said it would "implement an annual mental health services report card." That didn't happen. Moreover, a year earlier, the Liberals decided not to renew mental health advocate Nancy Hall's contract "as a result of the creation of a minister of state for mental health."
Ms. Hall had been, in part, "appointed to monitor the performance of the mental health system." At the time the Liberals dismissed her, then health minister Colin Hansen explained when "the position of the advocate was created the government did not have a minister of state with specific responsibility for mental health services - now we do." But, after the Liberals were re-elected in 2005, that ministerial seat wasn't filled.
Asked for comment on the Liberal's record, New Democrat leader Carole James said, "I think it's shocking. I wish I could say it's unique. It's what I've seen across the ministries...The government has taken a hands-off approach - no accountability."
Here's another dialogue-generating poll, courtesy of the government's intranet. Back in December, civil servants were asked about the next step they would be taking in their career. And, for most of them, it was out of government. Among the 436 bureaucrats who responded to the survey, 150 said they were looking for "career change outside of the BC Public Service" - the most frequent response. "Say it ain't so!!" read the commentary accompanying the poll results. "I suppose we could do the math differently and add up the responses to say that more of you are looking for promotional opportunities either within or outside of your ministry but we can't hide from the results."
"Our retention stats are actually way better than the private sector's but those too are a changin'," the commentary continued. "Nearly twice as many people resigned from the public service last year as retired despite all the attention given to the alarming stats you see on retirees. We know it's partly about a changing demographic and people who no longer see themselves in the same organization for their whole career (despite how diverse the work opportunities can be within the broader public service community). But what else is it?" Indeed. The following is a complete copy of that survey.
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The Results are in!
Poll results on career management
So we asked you how you plan to manage your career. The majority of you said your next step was a career change outside of the public service. Say it ain’t so!! I suppose we could do the math differently and add up the responses to say that more of you are looking for promotional opportunities either within or outside of your ministry but we can’t hide from the results.
Our retention stats are actually way better than the private sector’s but those too are a changin’. Nearly twice as many people resigned from the public service last year as retired despite all the attention given to the alarming stats you see on retirees.
We know it’s partly about a changing demographic and people who no longer see themselves in the same organization for their whole career (despite how diverse the work opportunities can be within the broader public service community). But what else is it?
How do you plan to manage your career?
Lateral opportunity within my ministry 36
Lateral opportunity to another area of govt 46
Staying where I am thanks 47
Promotional opportunity to another area of govt 54
Promotional opportunity within my ministry 103
Career change outside of the BC Public Service 150
Transportation Minister Kevin Falcon is getting hot under the collar about New Democrat critic Maurine Karagianis’s proposed "cold-blooded" approach to Lower Mainland transportation issues. Last month, Ms. Karagianis told Public Eye the fact she represents a Vancouver Island riding, gives her "a better opportunity to look at "the government’s controversial highway expansion project "in a cold-blooded way and to look at it in a practical and political sense without a lot of background in the community affecting my thinking one way or another."
Asked for comment, Minister Falcon said, "When it comes time to talk about the Gateway Program, I can’t wait. Because I would love to know when the last time she actually drove across the Port Mann Bridge was, if ever. To me, that’s just a fundamental issue. I haven’t gleaned any advice whatsoever that she has a clue about what the issues are in the Lower Mainland in terms of traffic congestion – particularly the Port Mann Bridge" - which is set to be twinned. "I’ll be you, you can’t even get her to point on a map as to where the South Fraser Perimeter Road goes...I just can't think of a person who’s less qualified to understand from the actual experience of knowing the area or driving the area” to debate the Gateway Program.
Continued Minister Falcon, "The fact of the matter is the NDP on this - as in so many other major issues - refuse to take a position. They are terrified of this particular project. And the reason they're terrified is because they know there's huge, widespread support for it. And, yet, they can't deal with the divisions in their own caucus."
Last year, the premier's council on aging and seniors' issues recommended the provincial government take a "leadership role" in "making it easier for older people to continue to work if they want." But it appears the Campbell administration may be having some trouble filling that part. When bureaucrats were asked back in July what actions they've noticed the administration taking to improve conditions in the service, just 69 selected "opportunities for retired employees." By comparison, 132 noticed "more jr. employees" in government. This, according to an online poll posted on the public service's intranet site. Even more problematic, though, was the fact 141 said they hadn't noticed any of the government's promised improvements - the most frequent response. But, in an email to Public Eye, community services communications manager Marc Black cautioned, "these polls aren't meant to be scientific - they're just meant to provide a pulse on what people think and to generate some dialogue about what's happening in the public service." The following is a complete copy of that survey.
The Results are in!
Poll Results: Building Our Internal Capacity
For our poll on the first goal of the Corporate HR Plan - Building Our Internal Capacity - it looks like there were enough votes on each “what you should notice” item that we can tell you're starting to see evidence of our goals in action. But there were also a lot of votes by people who haven’t seen evidence of any of them, and that’s not entirely unexpected.
While things are beginning to happen, it's only been eight months since the HR Plan was released and it was never intended to be a one-year project. It's an ongoing thing, but taking the pulse of our progress is an important part of the process and it’s something we’re going to want to do regularly. In the meantime, we’re going to keep working hard to make these goals a reality for you and so that we can get more of you out of the "none of the above" category.
Which of the things on the "what you should notice" list for Goal 1: Building our Internal Capacity have you noticed?
More short-term opps 62
More moving between ministries 66
Limitation on consultants 69
More jr. employees 132
More awareness of "at risk" skills 57
Job shadowing 34
New learning and training opps 55
Orientation programs 109
Opps for retired employees 69
Advanced as people retire 57
None of the above 141
Back in May, Ombudsman Kim Carter slapped the provincial government's gaming policy enforcement branch around for failing to "adequately monitor, investigate or otherwise regulate" the British Columbia Lottery Corp.'s prize payout system. No firings, resignations or retirements have happened as a result of that criticism. But there are going to be some hirings. The enforcement branch recently posted want ads for four new managers responsible for forensic, horse racing, lottery and casino investigations. In an interview with Public Eye, public safety and solicitor general communications manager Brett Lowther confirmed those posts are in response to Ms. Carter's report into the prize payout process.
The former senior advisor to Canada's natural gas delivery lobby has been hired as a member of the provincial government's climate action secretariat, Public Eye has learned. Late last month, secretariat head Graham Whitmarsh quietly announced Robert Joshi - who was recently employed by the Canadian Gas Association - has been named one of the Campbell administration's two climate policy executive directors. And he'll have specific responsibility for leading the government's consultations with the oil and gas industry, as well as "carrying out economic and analytical analysis" of its "targets and policies." But, before environmentalists raise their eyebrows about Mr. Joshi's appointment, they might want to take a read of a column he wrote for the National Post this past January.
In that column, he suggested the heavy-hand of regulation should be part of Canada's global warming strategy. The reason: thanks to the introduction of tighter federal efficiency standards, "the energy use for all our fridges combined in 2004 was 27 per cent lower than in 1990." So why not use similar standards to shrink the automobile sector's environmental footprint?
But "before government thinks it can wave a magic regulatory wand in the face of powerful political opponents, it requires a sense of realism," he continued. "If the regulations are pushed too hard, they run ahead of the technology and cost consumers a lot more money or reduce performance." Still, he added, "sometimes, markets need a push to get things done. When the goal is as important as mitigating climate change and cleaning the air we breathe, a firm shove is justified." The following is a complete copy of the aforementioned announcement, as well as Mr. Joshi's column.
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From: Rossner, Amber N PREM:EX On Behalf Of Whitmarsh, Graham PREM:EX
Sent: Thursday, August 23, 2007 5:29 PM
Subject: New team members joining the Climate Action Secretariat
I am very pleased to announce that the following new team members are joining the Climate Action Secretariat. There were many highly qualified candidates, both local and international, who expressed interest in the Climate Action Secretariat and these were the successful applicants in a very competitive process.
These individuals bring a wealth of experience and energy and will begin work immediately to support the Government's climate change commitments.
Please join me in congratulating the following members of the Climate Action Secretariat on their appointments:
Warren Bell, Executive Director Climate Change Policy
Nichola Wade, Executive Director for Carbon Neutral Government
Tim Lesiuk, Executive Director Climate Policy
Robert Joshi, Executive Director Climate Policy
Louise Comeau, Executive Director Public Outreach and Strategic Engagement
Lawrence Alexander, Special Advisor
Melanie Stewart, Director of Research
Steve Anderson, Executive Director, Climate Change and Intergovernmental Relations
Julie Turner, Executive Coordinator.
Please read the attached document for further information on each member of the Secretariat.
Sincerely,
Graham Whitmarsh,
Head, Climate Action Secretariat.
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Warren Bell will be joining the Climate Action Secretariat on August 20th as the Executive Director Climate Change Policy. Mr. Bell will be responsible for policy coordination and support for the Cabinet's Committee on Climate Action and the Climate Action Plan. He will also coordinate communications between CCCA and ministries, manage the climate policy legislation and design and manage performance metrics and targets.
Warren Bell brings an extensive tenure of 18 years' experience with the BC Public Sector. Most recently, Warren joins the Secretariat from a secondment to the Deputy Minister's Policy Secretariat as a Special Advisor on Climate Change. Both through Government work and personal endeavours, Warren has over 20 years of experience in dealing with energy and climate change issues, policies and programs. Outside of his "day job," Warren maintains the position of President, Raincoast Resources, a consulting company that specializes in providing strategic support to Canadian corporate and government clients in the areas of climate change, energy and sustainability. Trained as an energy & environmental economist, Warren is also an Associate with the International Institute for Sustainable Development.
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Nichola Wade will join the Secretariat on the 20th of August as the Executive Director for Carbon Neutral Government. Her responsibilities will extend to cover Hospitals, Schools, Universities, and Municipalities, as well as public sector green buildings and the overall greening of the public sector.
Nichola joins us from the Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources, where she held the position of Director, Service Sector and Partnerships for the past 4 years. Nichola brings to the Secretariat 16 years' senior level service to the Public Sector. Recognized for her work in Public Service at the 2006 Women of Distinction awards, Nichola brings expertise in project and issues management, strategic planning and dispute management to this position.
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As Executive Director Climate Policy, Tim Lesiuk will head the negotiations with the Western Climate Initiative, a growing partnership of eight western provinces and states including British Columbia, Arizona, California, New Mexico, Oregon, Washington, Utah and Manitoba, that have established aggressive goals to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, adopted California tailpipe standards, participate in a cross-border GHG registry, and are working together on a regional GHG cap and trade system. In addition to leading policy development for the cap and trade and offsets program, Mr. Lesiuk will lead the consultation with large final emitters in British Columbia upon his start with the secretariat on August 20th.
Tim brings with him extensive experience in leading local, national and international climate change and sustainability initiatives. He has invested 10 years in developing solutions to climate change risks and advancing climate action as an economic and market opportunity. Most recently, in the position of Sustainability Specialist, Climate Change Management with BC Hydro, Tim played import leadership roles in many organizations, committees and boards focused on greenhouse gas accounting and reporting, offsets, energy, and sustainability.
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Robert Joshi will join the Secretariat as Executive Director Climate Policy. As of September 10th, his responsibilities will include leading the consultation the oil & gas industry and carrying out economic and analytical analysis of targets and policies. Mr. Joshi will also manage the disbursement of the EcoTrust Funds.
During his time as a Senior Advisor with the Canadian Gas Association, Robert gained broad experience in climate change policy and GHG emissions analysis. In joining the Climate Action Secretariat, Robert will contribute his knowledge of policy instruments such as targeted funding, efficiency regulations, cap and trade systems and polluter-pay fees, combined with an innate understanding of the relationship between energy, the environment and the economy.
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As Executive Director Public Outreach and Strategic Engagement, Louise Comeau will lead the government's public outreach and engagement campaign, including public sector employees, municipalities and the general public. Ms. Comeau will also be responsible for the Citizen's Conservation Council. She starts with the Climate Action Secretariat on August 20th.
Louise began her 15 year tenure in the field of climate action in 1992 when she joined Canada's first campaign team on climate change. She has since worked for the Federation of Canadian Municipalities and, most recently, at the Sage Centre in Ottawa, where her work with climate protection, sustainable energy systems and sustainable community development has continued under her role as Director, Sage Climate Project. Now, with the Climate Action Secretariat, Louise returns to solutions work and a focus aimed at engaging with citizens in personal lifestyle changes that build sustainable communities and cut GHG while improving quality of life. Louise is currently completing her Master's in Environmental Education and Communication at Royal Roads University.
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As Special Advisor on the Secretariat, Lawrence Alexander will lead policy development, coordination and consultation on Green Cities and Communities and the Green Buildings Strategy. Mr. Alexander will manage the Carbon Trust and develop policy on water use in British Columbia. He will also lead the coordination with VANOC and manage the Carbon Trust.
Lawrence Alexander is a solicitor working in the Office of the Assistant Deputy Attorney General, Legal Services Branch, Ministry of Attorney General. He advises the Premier's office on sustainability issues including Climate Change and the 2010 Olympics, and will extend this role to the Climate Action Secretariat. Lawrence brings with him 12 year practice in environment and land use law (focus on law reform) and 3.5 years experience as a public servant in a BC central government agency.
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Melanie Stewart will be joining the Secretariat as the Director of Research, effective August 20th. She will be responsible for all research and policy support work needed to create and implement the Climate Action Plan and all climate action policy.
Melanie joins the Climate Action Secretariat from the Ministry of Small Business and Revenue, where she has been acting as Manager, Small Business Secretariat. Along with a PhD in Political Science, Melanie's strong academic background in research and policy set a firm foundation for her new role as Director of Research. She has taught Political Science and Communications at York University, the University of Victoria, and Royal Roads University. Her specific experience working on climate action issues and with academic and non governmental environmental research organizations in Toronto and Vancouver makes her an asset to this team. Melanie has also worked as the Managing Editor for Women and Environments International magazine as well as Director for the Women's Health and Environment Network.
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Steve Anderson will be joining the Climate Action Secretariat as the Executive Director, Climate Change and Intergovernmental Relations, on August 27. Mr. Anderson will lead negotiations and policy coordination for intergovernmental initiatives on climate change. He will work collaboratively with other governments including federal, provincial, municipal and First Nations as well as in partnership with governors in California, Washington, and other Pacific Coast states to reduce net greenhouse gases in the Pacific Coast region and across Canada. Mr Anderson will also represent British Columbia on The Climate Registry, an international collaboration to develop and manage a common greenhouse gas emissions reporting system.
Steve Anderson has 13 years experience working in both the public and private sectors. He began his career in the Public Service at the former Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs and, prior to joining the Climate Action Secretariat, was most recently an Executive Director at the Ministry of Transportation where he led their Climate Action Program. Steve has represented the Ministry of Transportation on various Assistant Deputy Minister (ADM) Committees and was also an Executive member of the Joint Emergency Liaison Committee, which is a partnership between local governments in the Lower Mainland and the Province to review cross-jurisdictional emergency planning. Along with an MA in Political Science and successfully completing programs at UBC's Sauder School of Business, Steve brings demonstrated experience and success in building strategic alliances, partnerships and relationships.
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Julie Turner will be joining the Secretariat as the Executive Coordinator on the 20th of August. Her duties will include: operational and issues coordination, key c