February 2009 Archives

On Wednesday, the provincial New Democrats were granted access to 8,000 pages of government records related to the privatization of British Columbia Railway Co. assets. The Canadian Press's Steve Mertl quoted New Democrat attorney general critic Leonard Krog as saying those records might not include a smoking gun. "My fear is there'll be a number of edited pages, and this may not advance the public's understanding or the seeking of truth, which is what this is supposed to be all about," said Mr. Krog. But what does Liberal House Leader Mike de Jong think about this development?

Earlier, we reported the provincial government's direct forest fire fighting forecasts are dramatically lower than the average amount spent on such activities during the past ten fiscal years. In an interview with Public Eye, Forests and Range Minister Pat Bell explained the government is upgrading its tanker bases and dispatch system - an initiative that should "reduce our costs over the long term." But what does his New Democrat critic Bob Simpson have to say about those figures?

In its most recent budget and fiscal plan, the provincial government estimates it will spend $62 million on direct forest fire fighting costs in the coming fiscal year. But that estimate is dramatically lower than the average amount spent on such activities during the past ten fiscal years, according to an exclusive analysis by Public Eye.

Earlier, we broke the news the provincial government had appointed a new public security commissioner to implement its gangs and guns strategy. As a result, the new commissioner - David Morhart - is now the province's director of police services.

Earlier, we exclusively reported the Federation of Child and Family Services of British Columbia is disputing an internal government report that states contracted services such as group homes "rarely contributed to good outcomes for children." And children and youth representative Mary Ellen Turpel-Lafond is also concerned the ministry didn't give her a copy of that report, which details the rising costs of putting kids in care. So what was Children and Family Development Minister Tom Christensen response to those criticisms?

Stephen Smith - British Columbia Ferry Services Inc.'s newest director - has been a past critic of the company. But he's also been a supporter - attacking the ferry service's New Democrat critic in a letter to the Daily News's editor. And now Public Eye has learned Mr. Smith was identified by the provincial government in November 2002 as one of its backers when the Campbell administration privatized the former Crown corporation. According to a draft of the cabinet submission communications plan for that privatization announcement, the Prince Rupert hotelier was among the names of third party supporters who could be "sought out for comment" by the media.

British Columbia Ferry Services Inc.'s newest director Stephen Smith runs several Prince Rupert businesses which are impacted by ferry service to that city. But the the ferry service's public affairs vice-president Mark Stefanson has said he doesn't think Mr. Smith's board appointment will put the hotelier in a conflict of interest.

In an interview with The Times Colonist's Lindsay Kines, children and youth representative Mary Ellen Turpel-Lafond criticized the government for withholding an internal report on the increasing cost of the province's child weflare system. But Ms. Turpel-Lafond isn't the only party upset about the contents of that report, which was leaked to the New Democrats.

Earlier, we exclusively reported David Morhart has been appointed as the provincial government's new public security commissioner. Speaking to reporters, Solicitor General John Van Dongen said Mr. Morhart wouldn't be assigned any additional staff to assist him in implementing the government's guns and gangs strategy. "He will simply assume the responsibility for all of those components of the ministry and that will be his specific focus. So some of the administrative side, the finance side, all of the management of the ministry will fall to Dana Hayden."

The provincial government has appointed a "public security commissioner" as part of its efforts to "increase focused attention on the issue of gangs, illicit drugs and gun violence in BC," Public Eye has learned. In an email to colleagues, the premier's deputy minister Jessica McDonald announced solicitor general and public safety deputy minister David Morhart has been named to that position. He'll be replaced by forestry roundtable vice-chair and former British Columbia Lotteries Corp. chief executive officer Dana Hayden. The following is a complete copy of that email.

Earlier, we reported provincial Liberal Vancouver-Fairview candidate Margaret MacDiarmid will be having an evening fundraising reception on March 6 at the Plaza 500 Hotel. But that's not the only political function happening at the hotel that evening. Lower Mainland federal Liberal members will also be at the Plaza 500 selecting delegates for their upcoming leadership convention. How convenient! The following is a complete copy of the notice for that event.

Five months ago, the ministry of children and family development described it's own child welfare system as being "in crisis and in need of innovation." This, according to a September 2008 internal analysis that was leaked to opposition New Democrats and released today. According to the analysis, the "overall cost and cost per case" of children in care has been increasing at "rates beyond inflation and beyond the Ministry's capacity to continue to fund within existing budgets."

Speculation former West Vancouver chief constable Kash Heed may run for the provincial Liberals remained the hot topic at the legislature today. Speaking with reporters, Premier Gordon Campbell said, "He'll have to decide if he wants to run or not, certainly I think he would be a great candidate if he decided to." Meanwhile, Wally Oppal had this to say about Mr. Heed - who could replace him as the party candidate in Vancouver-Fraserview should the attorney general switch ridings or not seek re-election.

Liberal candidate and former British Columbia Medical Association president Margaret MacDiarmid may or may not unseat incumbent New Democrat legislator Jenn McGinn during the upcoming election. But, if she does lose, it won't be because Dr. MacDiarmid didn't have help from government relations professionals advising some of the province's most powerful corporate interests.

Yesterday, the West Vancouver Police Board announced Kash Heed had resigned as chief constable after less than two years on the job. That announcement immediately resulted in speculation Mr. Heed might run for the provincial Liberals in the next election, with The Province's Michael Smyth telling CKNW's Philip Till this morning "the bottom-line is Philip, Gordon Campbell needs a new top cop - somebody the public can respect, somebody who is smart and savvy with the media. And Kash Heed may fill that bill." But, if Mr. Heed does run for the Liberals, the New Democrats could have a tough time criticizing his candidacy.

This morning, The Vancouver Sun reported Attorney General Wally Oppal "ended months of speculation over his own political future Monday, saying he will be seeking re-election. 'I'm committed to staying here. There's no question about that," he said in an interview. But, when Public Eye pressed him about the issue yesterday, Attorney General Oppal seemed to leave himself some wiggle room. But don't take our word for it. Take a look at the clip.

In December, Premier Gordon Campbell told The Vancouver Sun's Vaughn Palmer that, even though the New Democrats have personally attacked him, his "strategy is actually not to do that. I think that Carole James and the NDP all are probably trying to do what's best for the province." But it seem some of the premier's cabinet ministers disagree with that assessment. Speaking in the legislature yesterday, Finance Minister Colin Hansen said, "I know that the opposition wants to be dismal. I know they want to be pessimistic. I know that they would actually love it if the economy of British Columbia failed relative to everybody else." Fancy that!

Finance Minister Colin Hansen isn't concerned about a Central 1 Credit Union report that states there's a "high" chance the government will miss its economic forecasts by a "wide margin" unless a substantial recovery occurs in the second half of 2009. Among the reasons: according to Minister Hansen, the forecasts the credit union's chief economist Helmut Pastrick "has been putting out are significantly more pessimistic than other economists in Canada."

Thanks to your donations, we're pleased to announce the addition of video on Public Eye. Below, you can find footage of Attorney General Wally Oppal commenting on his political future. And we also captured Children and Family Development Minister Tom Christensen on tape, responding to a question about whether social workers are going to be carrying a heavier administrative burden. So thank you, once again, for your support. And, if you haven't contributed yet, please consider doing so by clicking on this link and making a donation.

"I'd be surprised if a frustrated Attorney General Wally Oppal seeks re-election," wrote Globe BC chief political reporter Keith Baldrey. "New Democrats and Liberals alike wonder if the affable Oppal will run again," revealed The Vancouver Sun's Vaughn Palmer. But what does the man himself have to say about such reports? Well, we caught up with Attorney General Oppal today at the legislature. And this is what he had to say.

Last week, in an interview with The Times Colonist's Lindsay Kines, provincial New Democrat leader Carole James alleged a reduction in the number of full-time equivalents at the ministry of children and family development would mean more administrative duties for social workers. But, when questioned by reporters, Tom Christensen denied that allegation.

Here's a squib for those paying attention to the machinations leading up to the next provincial election: on Saturday, Liberal candidates and their campaign managers attended a closed-door campaign school in Vancouver. No word yet on the specifics of what was discussed at that meeting.

In December, we exclusively reported the ministry of children and family development would be looking at "fiscal restraint measures" as a result of the "economic situation in BC." At the time, deputy minister Lesley du Toit said some of that budget pressure would be managed through "natural staff attrition." But last week, it became apparent some of that budget pressure will also be managed by reducing the number of full-time equivalents at the ministry by 203 between now and fiscal 2011/12.

On Friday, British Columbia Ferry Services Inc. announced Stephen Smith - "the President or CEO of a number of Prince Rupert hospitality-related businesses including the Crest Hotel and the Pacific Inn" - had been appointed to the company's board of directors. But, in the past, Mr. Smith has also been both a critic of that company and New Democrat legislator Gary Coons.

Last month, ForestEthics co-founder Tzeporah Berman told CKNW's Bill Good, "I think the opposition that we're seeing in B.C. by some environmental groups to the move toward green power - the whole kind of 'save-our-rivers' piece - needs to be rethought." The reason: "We need to re-evaluate our priorities based upon what we know about global warming. Yes, we need to do it smart. We need to be careful about our rivers. But the fact is we need to support the move to green power." So what does Save Our Rivers Society spokesman Rafe Mair think about that statement?

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, Save Our Rivers Society spokesperson Rafe Mair joins us to discuss independent power production in British Columbia. And our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Eleanor Gregory, Bob Russell and Allan Warnke - will 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 or leave a comment below.

Earlier, we reported just 30 percent of British Columbians have a "positive awareness" of the diversity of value of First Nations culture. This, according to the ministry of aboriginal relations and reconciliation's service place. Asked for his interpretation of that number, Mike de Jong, the minister responsible, said it means the government has "more work to do. That (awareness is) better than it was. But we want to ensure British Columbians have a keener sense of our history - our history dating back to the formation of the colony but also our history pre-contact with Europeans. And there's more work to be done."

Last month, Catalyst Paper Corp. announced, beginning July 1, it would only be paying $6 million in municipal taxes instead of the $23 million it is normally assessed. And it's asked the Campbell administration to make up the difference, threatening to close a paper mill unless the provincial and municipal governments agree to its demands. So, in that context, our readers may be interested to know Norman Stickelmann - the former president of the Canadian Property Tax Association Inc., registered as a lobbyist for Catalyst in January. On May 9, 2008, The Vancouver Sun's Don Cayo reported Mr. Stickelmann was then a member of the Vancouver Fair Tax Coalition's technical committee.

In an interview with the Nanaimo Daily News's Robert Barron, Blue Energy Canada Inc. founder and chairman Martin Burger declared that, after 20 years of advocating for tidal power in the province, British Columbia is a "moonscape" for the company. Indeed, according to Mr. Barron, the Campbell administration and BC Hydro Corp. "have made it clear they have no interest in adding tidal power to B.C.'s power supply any time soon." Nevertheless, there was a present for tidal power companies in the government's budget gift basket. Effective yesterday, "equipment specifically designed to produce mechanical or electrical energy from ocean current, tides or waves is exempt" from the provincial sales tax.

Add the province's most prominent independent power producer to the list of corporate interests advised by Patrick Kinsella, the provincial Liberals' powerful former campaign co-chair.
In an email to Public Eye, a Plutonic Power Corporation Inc. spokesperson confirmed Mr. Kinsella provides the company's vice-chairman and chief executive officer Donald McInnes with "high level strategic advice on public policy."

Earlier, we reported the ministry of children and family development expects a decrease in the average number of children in care. This, despite the economic downturn. But perhaps the ministry has good reason to forecast such a decrease. After all, in December 2008, the ministry had just 8,960 children in care as part of a downward trend. The following is a complete copy of those numbers since December 2001.

"There's a lot of talk by theorists. And there's a lot of talk by those who observe. But those doing the work think there's a lot being done." That's what British Columbia Salvation Army Major Brian Venables said in response to questions about whether the government should be doing more to address reports the province has the worst child poverty rate in Canada. So what does the organization responsible for those reports think about that statement?

According to the provincial government "part of forging respectful relationships with Aboriginal peoples includes an increased awareness by British Columbians of Aboriginal peoples' history, culture and heritage." But increasing that awareness will be a challenge for the Campbell administration. The ministry of aboriginal relations and reconciliation's service plan reports just 30 percent of British Columbians expressed "positive awareness" of the diversity and value of First Nations culture. This, according to a survey conducted by BC Stats between September 2007 and September 2008.

Earlier, we reported the ministry of children and family development isn't accounting for an increase in the average number of children in care. In fact, according to the budget and fiscal plan, the ministry projects that caseload will decline by 100 in fiscal 2009/10 to 9,000 children. But if that caseload increases, the Campbell administration's fiscal plan could be at risk. Because, according to the government, a one percent increase in the average caseload or cost per case will cost $2.7 million.

Provincial government layoffs, if they do occur, will be under five percent of the workforce. This, according to the premier's deputy minister Jessica McDonald. In an email to bureaucrats, Ms. McDonald stated "we believe the number could ultimately be much lower than that." But "every effort is being made to consider direct staff impacts only as a last resort." The following is a complete copy of that email.

The provincial government seems to be taking an increased interest in shale gas development in northeastern British Columbia. Yesterday, Premier Gordon Campbell announced a new transmission line to service the region. And, today, the government committed to spend $6 million over the next three years to "support the strategic development of shale and tight gas resources in the northeast area of B.C." According to the province's budget and fiscal plan, that expenditure will "assist in adding to BC's natural gas potential."

The ministry of children and family development has once again failed to meet a number of its key performance targets. According to the ministry's latest service plan, the "rate of recurrence of child neglect and/or abuse" by abusive families was 20.1 percent in fiscal 2007/08 - 0.2 percentage points higher than anticipated. The number of aboriginal children in care who are served by delegated agencies was 31.9 percent - 4.1 percentage points lower than expected. And just 78.1 percent of children in care under continuing custody orders were at the grade level prescribed for their age - 3.4 percentage points less than the target.

Despite the government's renewed commitment to improving relations with First Nations people, the ministry of aboriginal relations and reconciliation is reducing the number of treaties and agreements it expects to sign in fiscal 2010/11. In 2008, the government predicted it would sign 17 such deals - three more than the Campbell administration is now forecasting.

Earlier, we reported on the Campbell administration's pre-election budget, which forecasts a two year $740 million deficit. But there's a chance that deficit could be higher. The reason: according to the government, increases in the use of income assistance and children and family services is one of the major risks to its fiscal plan. That plan accounts for a six percent increase in the income assistance caseload in fiscal 2009/10. But the ministry of children and family development isn't accounting for any increase in the average number of children in care. The reason: children presently in care are going to be aging out of that program. And the ministry believes preventive strategies can keep new children from being taken into care.

Finance Minister Colin Hansen said today the government's pre-election budget is all about stability, jobs and confidence at a time of economic turmoil - announcing additional healthcare, education and social services spending. But it's also about two year $740 million deficit, public sector wage freezes and future cutbacks, as well as hidden Vancouver 2010 Olympic security costs.

Earlier, we reported the Campbell administration will be building a northeastern cousin for it's promised northwestern transmission line - which has been criticized by environmentalists as a sop to the mining industry. So what's the purpose of the Northeastern Transmission Line? Speaking to reporters, Premier Gordon Campbell said, that line "will actually allow us to dramatically reduce greenhouse gas challenges in developing the northeastern energy bank that we've got that we would like to tap into. And it will allow us to do so in a way that actually reduces greenhouse gas emissions in that development as well."

When economic times were good, the Campbell administration rejected demands to increase the minimum wage, in part, because "the average hourly wage right now is $21.73. That's 21/2 times the minimum wage, and it's up over 21 per cent from 2001." So sayeth labour and citizens services minister Olga Ilich in October 2007. And, in an interview with The Canadian Press's Scott Sutherland she said, "We think it would be counterproductive to do so. We think we would lose jobs in the economy." But now that the economy is bad, the government is again rejecting those demands, arguing such an increase would "mean more job losses" and "depress job creation." Which begs the question, is there any time when the minimum wage could be increased?

With just three months left until British Columbians go to the polls, the Campbell administration has announced the province "must brace for a period of recession." And, as a result, the government - in today's throne speech - has promised to reduce "discretionary spending" to "maximize available budget increases to support critical services for patients, students, children and those most vulnerable in our society." Those increases, according to Finance Minister Colin Hansen will also feature a funding boost for children and family services. But recession-bracing wasn't the only major announcement included in the throne speech.

British Columbia Salvation Army Major Brian Venables doesn't think "it's a fair question" to ask whether the provincial government should be doing more to combat child poverty. Major Venables was at the legislature today to attend the scheduled unveiling of Finance Minister Colin Hansen's new shoes - a pre-budget tradition. But, instead, Minister Hansen donated $4,000 of his own money so the Salvation Army could buy 100 pairs of shoes for needy children.

Today, The Times Colonist's Rob Shaw reported rural agency store owners were "warned by former solicitor general John Les to keep their complaints out of the media or lose any chance of help from the provincial government." In an email sent to those owners in 2007, Mr. Les said, "All this talk and e-mails flying around is not helpful. It will get out to those who are not helpful and a huge fuss will break out and I won't be able to help you. Let's keep this very low profile. One more question in QP or an article in the paper and it's over." But this isn't the first time Mr. Les has reportedly made such statements to a stakeholder group.

On Monday, we reported former solicitor general John Les warning to rural agency store owners was similar to an alleged statement he made to Canadian Association of Home Inspectors (BC) Bill Sutherland. Specifically, Mr. Les - who denied making such a statement in 2006 - warned owners in an email that if there was "one more question in QP" about their concerns "or an article in the paper" they wouldn't receive any help from the government.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, Independent Contractors and Businesses Association president Phil Hochstein joins us to discuss the upcoming election, the budget and his own Vote Smart BC campaign. And our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Sheila Orr, Bob Russell and Allan Warnke - will 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 or leave a comment below.

Because of your generous contributions, Public Eye will soon be expanding. We expect to relaunch the Website on or about February 23. And footage of legislative scrums could be available as early as next week. So thank you, once again for your support. And, if you haven't contributed yet, please consider doing so by clicking on this link and making a donation.

The ministry of aboriginal relations and reconciliation is being restructured as a result of the "current economic situation." And that restructuring means the ministry's corporate services assistant deputy minister - Barbara Reuther - will be "leaving" the bureaucracy. This, according to an email authored by aboriginal relations and reconciliation deputy minister Bob de Faye.

On Monday, in an interview with Public Eye, Housing and Social Development Minister Rich Coleman said it was "absolutely not true" British Columbia's fire chiefs had safety concerns about the government's decision to allow taller wood-frame buildings. Instead, Minister Coleman stated, "The head of the B.C. fire chiefs actually wrote a letter saying that they didn't have the concerns." But that's not the case, according to Fire Chiefs' Association of B.C. president Stephen Gamble.

Earlier, we reported the Alberta government introduced amendments earlier this week to strengthen its Lobbyists Act. So when will the Campbell administration reveal its own lobbyist legislation fix, which it intends to introduced during the current legislative session? Speaking with Public Eye, Attorney General Wally Oppal joked, "We're going to call it the Sean Holman Amendment Act. But, seriously, I can't say anything yet. But stay tuned."

The Campbell administration has yet to introduce promised spring legislation correcting its flawed Lobbyists Registration Act. This, despite a 2001 campaign commitment to be the most open and accountable government in the country. But, meanwhile, Alberta has moved to strengthen its own laws governing the profession. In a news release distributed earlier this week, the Stelmach administration announced amendments to its Lobbyists Act, which will "fine tune" some aspects of that legislation to "ensure it functions efficiently and effectively."

Last month, the Urban Development Institute's Victoria chapter organized a luncheon to discuss the provincial government's controversial decision to allow taller wood-frame buildings. That luncheon was sponsored by Read Jones Christoffersen Ltd. - which, according to the government's building and safety policy branch - was part of the consultant team which advised the Campbell administration during the making of that decision. And, in late February, the firm will be sponsoring another institute event on the same subject in Vancouver, along with Wood WORKS! - a Canadian Wood Council initiative promoting the use of wood and wood products in construction projects. The following is a complete copy of the invite to that event.

Those supporting the taller wood-frame buildings in British Columbia could get a boost tomorrow. That's when Wood WORKS!/Canadian Wood Council sustainability and special projects director Peter Moonen is scheduled to speak at Buildex Vancouver delegates about the economic advantages of green buildings. And, during that discussion, Mr. Moonen has said he'll be citing a nine storey wooden residential building in East London as one of his examples. Speaking to the Journal of Commerce's Jean Sorensen, Mr. Moonen said using wood in innovative ways to create larger structures is topical for builders because of the government's recent decision to allow the construction of five and six storey wood-frame buildings. That decision has become mired in controversy, with engineering, fire and earthquake experts raising safety concerns about such buildings.

Yesterday, we confirmed some media outlets are "taking a second look at their plans" to send reporters on the provincial New Democrats' campaign bus during the upcoming election. And, according Vaughn Palmer, the same considerations are taking place concerning the Liberals' campaign bus - although party communications director Chad Pederson told us he hasn't yet had any conversations yet about the issue. So, if there isn't a traveling press corps during the upcoming campaign, how will the election be covered?

In the last election, federal Liberal incumbent candidate Raymond Chan lost his riding to Conservative challenger Alice Wong. So who's going to take on Ms. Wong when Richmond voters next go to the ballot box? Well, some think Joe Peschisolido could make a bid for the Grit nomination in that riding. But what does Mr. Peschisolido have to say about that talk?

Provincial Liberal MLAs won't be given leave to attend events in their riding while the legislature is in session, Public Eye has learned. In an email to riding association presidents, government caucus whip Randy Hawes wrote "our member numbers have decreased over the past few months" - as a result of Stan Hagen's death, as well as Lorne Mayencourt, Richard Neufeld and Carole Taylor's resignations. Furthermore, according to Mr. Hawes, "there are several members suffering illness that will or may cause their absence over the next month."

Provincial New Democrat communications officer David Bieber has told Public Eye some media outlets are "taking a second look at their plans" to send reporters on the party's campaign bus during the upcoming election. Covering the campaign from such buses is a staple of political reporting. But it's a costly one. During the last election, outlets paid $8,500 to spend 28 days on the Liberals' campaign bus and $6,000 to spend the same amount of time on the New Democrats' bus. And that's a price tag some outlets might not have the wherewithal to pay.

Earlier, in a letter to The Times Colonist, Housing and Social Development Minister Rich Coleman wrote leaky condos problems "were not a result of the building code" - a statement supported by the 1998 Barrett commission. But that's not what Gordon Campbell told The Canadian Press's Steve Mertle 11 years ago, when commission released its recommendations. According to Mr. Mertle, the then Opposition leader said the government contributed to the leaky condo problem by not reviewing National Building Code standards, which are the province's responsibility. "There's no question the building code helped contribute to this problem by sealing water into the structure," the future premier was quoted as saying.

Housing and Social Development Minister Rich Coleman said today that five and six storey wood-frame buildings will be gradually phased in "to make sure we do this right." This, in response to fire and earthquake safety concerns about the government's controversial decision to allow such buildings. But he said there will be no legal requirement for that to happen, acknowledging such buildings could be constructed as soon as the BC Building Code amendments allowing them come into effect.

The controversy over Tourism, Culture and the Arts Minister Bill Bennett's heated email to a tourism operator in his constituency made it to the legislature today. New Democrat MLA Norm Macdonald wanted to know whether Gordon Campbell thought Minister Bennett's conduct was "acceptable" - demanding the premier "stand and speak." This, after the East Kootenay legislator wrote a message describing the operator as having "bigoted" and "ignorant" opinions. But the premier didn't oblige until he was confronted by reporters outside the legislature, telling them the language in Minister Bennett's recent diatribe is "quite a bit different" compared with the one that resulted in his resignation from cabinet two years ago. However, the premier acknowledged, "Look, I wouldn't write emails like that. But I think Bill will be held to account on May 12 by his constituents."

Here's a fascinating factoid for those paying attention to former provincial Liberal campaign co-chair Patrick Kinsella. According to Election British Columbia, between 2005 and 2007, Mr. Kinsella's companies Progressive Holdings Ltd. and Progressive Strategies Ltd. donated $74,714.00 to the Liberals. But the party's most recent financing report - which covers the period from January 1 to October 29, 2008 - records no donations from Mr. Kinsella or those two firms.

Those following the goings-on at Vision Vancouver will be interested in this squib: on March 23, Terminal City's governing civic association will be holding their annual general meeting at the Chinese Cultural Centre.

Earlier, we reported Housing and Social Development Minister Rich Coleman defended the Campbell administration's decision to allow five and six storey wood-frame buildings in a letter to The Times Colonist. And, in the letter, he dismissed comparisons between that decision and British Columbia's leaky condos fiasco, writing that the problems with those structures "were not a result of the building code. They were caused by deficient materials and installation which did not comply with the code." But that's not the whole story, according to the 1998 commission of inquiry into the quality of condominium construction in British Columbia.

Last week, The Times Colonist urged the provincial government to take a more "cautious approach" in implementing its controversial decision to allow taller wood-frame buildings. In response, Housing and Social Development Minister Rich Coleman wrote a letter to the editor explaining that decision was taken "after careful consultation with building experts in B.C. and internationally." But he's not the only one who rushed to defend such buildings.

The time has come to tell Premier Gordon Campbell "we told you so." Yes, the provincial Liberal leader did a flip-flop when he announced his government would engage in deficit spending. But this now commonplace observation misses an important point. Premier Campbell has a long record of reversal - his recent conversion to deficit spending is just the most recent example. And the pattern of behavior surrounding these reversals raises disturbing questions about his leadership.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, provincial New Democrat leader Carole James discusses the upcoming election. And our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Eleanor Gregory, Bob Russell and Allan Warnke - will 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 or leave a comment below.

Earlier, we reported the National Fire Protection Association's Canadian regional manager still has "very serious concerns" with the provincial government's decision to allow the construction of six storey wood-frame buildings. Government didn't directly respond to those concerns, which were made after Sean Tracey reviewed the BC Building Code amendments implementing that decision. Instead, in a statement released to Public Eye, the housing and social development ministry limited its comments to a report Mr. Tracey submitted to the government seven months ago, noting that document "predates the major work of this project" and "is not based on the actual code changes." And while government did "carefully consider" Mr. Tracey's opinions, "code consultants completed a full risk analysis and subsequently new code provisions were designed to address technical risks."

Earlier, we reported the National Fire Protection Association's Canadian regional manager Sean Tracey and British Columbia's fire services liaison group chair Stephen Gamble raised serious safety concerns about the government's decision to allow taller wood-frame buildings. But, in a news release distributed last week, Surrey Fire Chief Len Garris stated, "the concerns people have about the fire safety of taller wood buildings come from a lack of information about how fires behave and about how buildings are constructed to protect people and limit the spread of fires."

The National Fire Protection Association's Canadian regional manager told Public Eye yesterday he still has "very serious concerns" with the provincial government's decision to allow the construction of six storey wood-frame buildings. Writing on his own behalf, Sean Tracey stated in an email that, even under ideal conditions, those buildings would have just one hour of fire resistance. By comparison, the current expectation in the National Building Code of Canada is "for continuous structures above three storeys to require 2 hour fire resistive construction." This, according to a report prepared by Mr. Tracey and submitted to the government on August 7, 2008.

Bill Bennett's New Democrat challenger says the East Kootenay Liberal legislator, "really needs to understand he's there to represent all his constituents and to listen to them and not to attack anyone who has a different point of view." Troy Sebastian made the comments after Public Eye exclusively revealed the tourism, sport and the arts minister had described a tourism operator in his constituency as having "bigoted" and "ignorant" opinions. This, after the operator wrote an email criticizing Minister Bennett for talking more about coalbed methane development than the tourism industry.

Earlier, we exclusively reported Tourism, Culture and the Arts Minister Bill Bennett had described a tourism operator in his constituency as having "bigoted" and "ignorant" opinions. This, after the operator wrote an email criticizing the minister for talking more about coalbed methane development than the tourism industry. In an interview with Public Eye, Minister Bennett was unapologetic about making those statements, which were part of a message sent to the Fernie Chamber of Commerce's president. But the New Democrats are demanding Premier Gordon Campbell tell his "tourism minister that enough is enough. British Columbians deserve a tourism minister who will work with the ndustry to help create jobs and welcome visitors to this province, not an arrogant minister who attacks anyone who disagrees with him." The following is a complete copy of the opposition's news release.

Public Safety and Solicitor General John Van Dongen will be hobnobbing in Washington, D.C. later this month. Minister Van Dongen has confirmed his attendance at a conference "exploring how Northern border states and Canadian provinces are developing reguional solutions" to the challenges resulting from 2010 Olympic Winter Games. Premier Gordon Campbell has also been invited to give a keynote speech at the conference, which is being hosted by the Woodrow Wilson Centre's Canadian Institute.

Earlier, we reported Alfred Apps would be doing grin and grip exercises at the Labatt Beer Institute on February 9 as part of his nascent campaign for the federal Liberal presidency. But that's not the only shoulder-rubbing event he'll be attending in Vancouver. Members of the party's exclusive Laurier Club have been invited to a light breakfast on February 10 at Fasken Martineau DuMoulin LLP's office to meet the would-be candidate. The following is a complete copy of the invite to that event.

Tourism, Culture and the Arts Minister Bill Bennett has described a tourism operator in his constituency as having "bigoted" and "ignorant" opinions - accusing Steve Kuijt of writing a "vicious and mean-spirited" email about him, which "may well be libellous." This, according to emails exclusively obtained by Public Eye. But, in interview, Minister Bennett defended his words, saying, "I put myself out there. It's my personal style to put things in writing - to say what I think, to say what I stand for."

Earlier, we reported Fasken Martineau DuMoulin LLP partner Alfred Apps would likely be running for the federal Liberal national presidency against Mike Crawley. And, in an interview with Public Eye, Mr. Crawley - the party's Ontario president - confirmed his name will be on the ballot. "We've got a great opportunity with the Liberal Party right now, I think, not only to return to power but also to do a heck of a lot of good things for the country. We've got a strong leader. We've got some great ideas that are coming up through the Liberal Party - different policy ideas that can really change the country and make it even better then it is now. But the question is: how do you get from the opposition benches into government again," he explained.

Today, "business, community and government" leaders are meeting at the Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre Hotel to discuss the "choices, challenges and potential" of the provincial economy." But, for most, there was a cost to join that discussion: $170 per person or $1,700 for a table of ten. Although a government spokesperson has told us that price tag wasn't "written in stone." And 15 seats were set aside for university and college students to attend the British Columbia Economic Summit at no cost.

Alfred Apps's nascent campaign for the federal Liberal national presidency is coming to British Columbia next week. Mr. Apps, a partner with Fasken Martineau DuMoulin LLP, will be doing grin and grip exercises with party members on February 9 at Vancouver's Labatt Beer Institute. Mr. Apps, who was instrumental in encouraging Michael Ignatieff to run for the Liberal leadership in 2006, will likely be competing against Ontario party president Mike Crawley. Meanwhile, our understanding is incumbent candidate Doug Ferguson hasn't yet decided whether his name will be on the ballot. The following is a complete copy of the invite to the aforementioned event.

At 1:00 today, Premier Gordon Campbell and Finance Minister Colin Hansen will be holding a press conference to "update British Columbians on the state of the provincial economy." But provincial Liberal legislators likely won't have to wait until then to hear the specifics of that update. The reason: a government caucus meeting is taking place in Vancouver just prior to that press conference. The following is an edited copy of the media advisory announcing the event.

Last month, Premier Gordon Campbell appointed Blair Lekstrom as his energy, mines and petroleum resources minister. This, after Richard Neufeld - the post's previous occupant - accepted an appointment to the Senate. But Mr. Lekstrom, who had been named the administration's community development minister just seven months ago, wasn't the only executive council member affected by Mr. Neufeld's departure. Healthy living and sports minister Mary Polak was also a beneficiary - filling the Treasury Board seat vacated by the former energy, mines and petroleum resources minister. That's the cabinet responsible for budget and management matters.

Last week, we exclusively reported provincial fire servies associations, the Structural Engineers Association of British Columbia and American local government officials have raised serious concerns about the government's decision to allow five and six storey buildings. But they're not the only ones speaking out. In an interview with The Times Colonist's Richard Watts, the City of Victoria's development and regulatory service manager Ron North predicted problems with those buildings. And the city's fire chief Doug Angrove said he's been "a little off-guard" by the change, questioning whether water flows from the street will be sufficient to tackle a fire in a six storey wood-frame building.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, Saanich South provincial New Democrat nomination candidate Lana Popham discusses her bid to hold onto the seat held by retiring legislator David Cubberley. And our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Sheila Orr, Bob Russell and Allan Warnke - will 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 or leave a comment below.