July 2009 Archives

Today, provincial New Democrat leader Carole James encouraged supporters to sign a party-sponsored petition demanding the government "scrap plans to implement the HST in 2010." For those keeping count, that petition comes eight days after the Campbell administration announced those plans and six days after 24 hours's columnist Bill Tieleman launched his NO BC HST facebook group. The following is a complete copy of the email sent to New Democrat "Council Delegates, Provincial Presidents, Provincial Executive Members, (and) Labour Communications" informing them of that petition drive.

The Sechelt Indian Band has accused the British Columbia Utilities Commission of "regulated racism." In a letter sent today, the band told the commission its refusal to endorse BC Hydro Corp.'s 2008 Clean Power Call, has "undermined our people and directly caused a breach in the negotiations and opportunities between our Nation and specific IPP projects and proponents."

On Tuesday, A-Channel's Stephen Andrew reported British Columbia Ferry Services Inc. chief executive officer David Hahn made "more than a million dollars" in fiscal 2008/09 or $1,034,680. That includes a $494,923 salary and incentive plans totaling $443,744. So how does that stack up against the salaries of those responsible for such services in other jurisdictions? Well, the deputy commissioner responsible the Alaska Marine Highway System James Beedle makes US$116,848 or C$126,371.11. Meanwhile, Washington State Ferries chief David Moseley makes US$144,768 or C$156,566.59. Neither has an incentive plan.

Former provincial cabinet minister Moe Sihota made an appearance yesterday at the Canadian Union of Public Employees British Columbia's annual think tank, which took place at the Coast Capri Hotel in Kelowna. The union invited Mr. Sihota to speak as their special guest at the event, discussing the results of the recent election and the state of the provincial New Democrats.

Earlier, we reported Earls Restaurants Ltd. had contributed $38,400 to the provincial Liberals between 2005 and 2008. But those donations are just a fraction of $106,632.66 David Aisenstat and his restaurants - Hy's Steakhouse and Cocktail Bar, The Keg Steakhouse and Bar and The Shore Club - have given to the party over the same time period. Mr. Aisenstat hasn't yet responded to a request for comment on the Campbell administration's sales tax, which has been criticized by restaurant industry representatives.

Earlier, we exclusively reported the provincial government spent more than $500,000 on ceremonies celebrating civil service excellence. So what do British Columbians think about those parties? Well, Public Eye took our camera down to Victoria's public library to find out.

The provincial government was living it up as the economy was crashing, spending more than half-a-million dollars on parties celebrating civil service excellence. But the government has said those celebrations were necessary to maintain a "high performing workforce" - something that’s "even more important during these challenging times."

British Columbia’s top Olympic bureaucrat got a severance agreement worth more than $300,000 when she left the civil service earlier this year by "mutual consent." That’s what Finance Minister Colin Hansen said about Annette Antoniak’s departure to The Vancouver Sun's Jeff Lee at the time, telling 24 hours's Bob Mackin it was "a window for her to make a career move." But employees who resign don’t usually get a severance agreement.

Earlier, we reported New Democrat provincial secretary Laura Nichols will be leaving her job in January. But whoever replaces her as the party's top staffer may have a different title. Some have suggested changing it to executive director as part of a move to modernize the New Democrats, breaking away from language that seems more at home in Soviet Russia than twenty-first century British Columbia. If such a change were to take place, it would require a resolution to be introduced at the New Democrats' upcoming convention.

The provincial government isn't promising to protect provincial operating grants for public libraries. But, despite that lack of commitment, library representatives struck a more conciliatory tone following a meeting with Education Minister Margaret MacDiarmid where she delivered the news. In an interview following that meeting, British Columbia Library Trustees' Association president Andy Ackermann told Public Eye the minister was "fully appreciative" of the importance of libraries. However, "decisions have not been made yet on budget. So we'll wait for those. But, I think at the end of the day, we agreed we would work very cooperatively and collaboratively with government to continue to support the library system." The following is a recording of that interview.

Earlier, we reported provincial New Democrat leader Carole James's chief of staff Ian Reid would be taking an extended leave of absence to treat an ongoing health condition. So who's going to replace him? Well, the answer the leader's communication director Jim Rutkowski, who begins his duties on August 1. This, according to an email distributed to caucus members by Ms. James. The following is a complete copy.

Earlier, we reported harmonized sales tax critic John Bishop had contributed $1,000 to the provincial Liberals in 2006. But he's by no means the only restaurant owner who has supported the Liberals. According to Elections British Columbia, Earls Restaurants Ltd. has donated $38,400 to the Liberals between 2005 and 2008. And, earlier this month, the company was one of the corporate teams at the Leader's Invitation Golf Tournament, contributing $1,000 worth of gift certificates as an auction item. Earls chief executive officer Stan Fuller hasn't returned a request for comment placed yesterday.

John Bishop, owner of Bishop's restaurant, continued his criticism of the Campbell administration's harmonized sales tax on CKNW this morning, telling host Bill Good, "If I felt betrayed, that would be even an understatement because my understanding three months ago when the provincial election was taking place, they did reassure us that they would not increase taxes and would not think about harmonizing the GST with the PST." But that's not the only reason why Mr. Bishop should feel betrayed. Because, in 2006, his restaurant made two $500 contributions to the Liberals according to Elections British Columbia.

Earlier, we exclusively reported public library representatives will be meeting with Education Minister Margaret MacDiarmid today to discuss the status of their provincial operating grants. Those grants haven't yet been received by the libraries - something that should have usually by now. Meanwhile, opposition to potential library cutbacks is sprouting up among the netroots, resulting in the creation of a facebook group and Website protesting such measures.

A portable sundae bar party and the "Ultimate BC Lions Football Experience" were auctioned off at last month's provincial Liberal Leader's Invitational Golf Tournament. The annual tournament is among the party's most lucrative fundraisers, netting $258,321.96 in 2008 according to Elections British Columbia filings. According to a course program obtained exclusively by Public Eye, $27,100 worth of items were donated for that auction, including three that were valued as being priceless. The following is a list of those items as present in the program - which included numerous capitalization, grammatical and punctuation errors and inconsistencies.

Earlier, Minister of State for Mining Randy Hawes told Public Eye Radio he doesn't plan to revisit the provincial government's ban on uranium mining. But is that policy in conflict with the Campbell administration's commitment to make climate change its top priority? Perhaps, according to a 2006 analysis prepared by the British Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology. Comparing the cradle to grave carbon footprints for six different technologies, the office found nuclear power to have the lowest emissions in Europe and the United Kingdom, followed by wind, hydro, marine, solar and biomass. The following is a complete copy of that list.

The British Columbia Restaurant and Foodservices Association is heating up its opposition to the provincial government's harmonized sales tax. Last week, association president and chief executive officer Ian Tostenson announced that tax "is not welcome news for the over 12,000 foodservices." And now, in an email distributed to industry colleagues this afternoon, Mr. Tostenson has stated, "It's time to fight back!" - launching a campaign that will include a "series of town hall meetings in a number of cities in upcoming weeks," a blog and an online petition. According to the email, the association will be taking a "very fact based non-emotional approach to our government negotiation." The following is a complete copy.

British Columbia Hotel Association president Earl Wilde said this morning the Campbell administration's harmonized sales tax is a "business-friendly" decision. But, he added, "I can't say it's necessarily a consumer-friendly thing." In an interview with Public Eye, Mr. Wilde said the tax will increase the prices for meals at hotel restaurants. He'd also like to know what will happen to the provincial sales tax rebate long-term guests receive after being in British Columbia for 30 days. Although, "for business overall - especially hotels where we reinvest a huge amount of capital into properties - there's no question it's going to save money."

"The harmonized sales tax proposal is a regressive scheme that will nickel and dime families at a time when they can least afford it...This is nothing but a sales tax grab that will nickel and dime families that are already feeling the squeeze." That's what the New Democrats have said about the HST...in Ontario. But, in British Columbia, the New Democrats' first day response to that tax didn't have any fire and brimstone. Instead, in a wet noodle and tapioca news release, finance critic Bruce Ralston demanded the Campbell administration "answer questions about what this new tax will mean in terms of increased costs for British Columbia" because "too many families are already struggling to make ends meet, and any further hit to their pocketbooks couldn't come at a worse time."

Yesterday, independent provincial legislator Vicki Huntington said the Campbell administration has "indicated no interest" in protecting the Pacific Flyway, a migratory route for birds that includes the Fraser estuary. Which is why she's going to make highlighting its importance one her top issues in the coming legislative session. But Ducks Unlimited Canada doesn't share her assessment. In an interview this morning, the conservation group's British Columbia operations and development manager Les Bogdan told Public Eye told "overall, I think between the (federal and provincial) governments they've done everything they can" to safeguard the flyway.

Three years ago, former conflict of interest commissioner Ted Hughes recommended the creation of a children and youth representative to audit and investigate the ministry of children and family development. But Mr. Hughes acknowledged it was unusual to have an external body overseeing the functioning of a ministry. So he suggested that function - which is presently invested in Mary Ellen Turpel-Lafond - be reviewed in five years time. So does Children and Family Development Minister Mary Polak think Ms. Turpel-Lafond's oversight of her ministry should continue?

In February, the ministry of children and family development predicted the rate of recurrence of child neglect and/or abuse would actually increase by 0.9 percentage points to 21 percent in fiscal 2008/09. In fact, that rate was 21.4 percent in the twelve month period leading up to December 2008. So what is Children and Family Development Minister Mary Polak going to do to address that problem?

In December 2008, the ministry of children and development released a report monitoring the progress of children in care within its north region. This, as part of its commitment to implement Ted Hughes's recommendation that the ministry "should establish a comprehensive set of measures to determine the real and long-term impacts of its programs and services on children, youth and their families." But when is the ministry going to release similar reports for other regions?

Last month, following her swearing-in ceremony, independent Delta South legislator Vicki Huntington refused to elaborate on what issues she'd be raising in the legislature, expect to say they were "very significant." But, in speaking Sunday on Public Eye Radio, Ms. Huntington said her top concern will making the protection of the Fraser River Estuary a provincial issue, highlighting its importance as an integral part of the Pacific Flyway.

Sunday morning, on Public Eye Radio, independent provincial legislator Vicki Huntington joins us to talk about her view on the harmonized sales tax. Minister of Children and Family Development Mary Polak discusses her new portfolio. And our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Eleanor Gregory, Sheila Orr and Bob Russell - 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 8:00 and 10:00. Or check us out after the show by downloading our podcast. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us or leave a comment below.

On Wednesday, Public Eye was the first to tell you British Columbia's public libraries may be forced to reduce their hours if they don't get the funding they need from the provincial government. The Times Colonist's Sandra McCulloch has picked up that story today. And so have the provincial New Democrats, issuing the following news release.

Transportation minister Shirley Bond recently turned down an anywhere-anytime request meet with a union representing workers at TransLink and BC Transit Victoria. But a ministry spokesperson said that denial doesn't have anything to do with the union's election advertising campaign, which featured the controversial Gordon Campbell Hates You commercial. In fact, according the spokesperson, a meeting between the minister and the union will happen in the future.

Earlier, we exclusively reported Vancouver city librarian Paul Whitney has been developing a contingency plan in the event his library doesn't receive its annual operating grant from the provincial government. But Mr. Whitney isn't alone in preparing for the worst. Surrey chief librarian Beth Barlow told Public Eye last week her trustees are meeting tonight. "And we'll be talking with our board about what we might do if, indeed, this happens and there is a major cut to the funding from the province." In 2008, Surrey received a $84,888 grant from the government, making up 6.7 percent of its budget.

A provincial government-funded Royal Canadian Mounted Police team charged with investigating illegal gambling was quietly shutdown on April 1, Public Eye has exclusively learned. The shutdown happened less than a month after the government's gaming policy and enforcement branch reported an "increase in the popularity of illegal gaming and unregulated gambling."

British Columbia's public libraries may be forced to reduce their hours if they don't get the funding they need from the provincial government. Public Eye has exclusively learned those libraries haven't yet received their annual operating grants. Nor have they told how much money they'll be getting - both of which should have usually happened by now.

Earlier, Public Eye told you about Fightback editorial board member Mike Palecek and former Vancouver city councillor Tim Louis effort to "take back" the provincial New Democrats on behalf of "left-leaning people" in the party. And that effort will continue next Thursday, when organizers to "discuss future activities and to elect a steering committee." The following is a complete copy of the details of the event.

Plutonic Power Corporation Inc. considered getting into the biomass business three years ago, generating electricity using mountain pine beetle wood. But the independent power producer eventually decided against that diversification strategy.

Tom Christensen may not have run for re-election. But that doesn't mean the former Campbell administration cabinet minister is staying out of public life. Last week, the Law Society of British Columbia notified members it had appointed Mr. Christensen to the Legal Services Society of British Columbia's board of director for a two-year term beginning September 7, 2009.

Last year, a Decima Research Ltd. report advised the provincial government the "phrase global warming tends to resonate slightly more clearly and deeply (with British Columbians) than the phrase climate change." Which is likely why the Campbell administration used the clearer phrase in its LiveSmart BC advertising campaign. But not all of the government's backers seemed to think that was the right thing to do.

Former police services division deputy director Judy Reykdal has been directly awarded a seven-month policy/research consultant contract worth up to $120,000. According to a notice posted on BC Bid last week, Ms. Reykdal will be advising government as it renegotiates its agreement with the Mounties to provide provincial police services. She was chosen for that contract "based on superior knowledge acquired from over 20 years of direct experience managing the RCMP contract in BC." The government didn't tender her contract because an open bidding process could "compromise government confidentiality," as well as interfere with "the ministry's ability to maintain security or order or to protect human life or health." The following is a complete copy of the aforementioned notice.

The Progressive Group, the strategic communications firm chaired by former provincial Liberal campaign co-chair Patrick Kinsella, pitched-in to help BC Children's Hospital earlier this month. The company's president Mark Jiles participated in the hospital's Miracle Weekend fundraiser, with photographer Andrew Chin snapping a shot for posterity.

Earlier, we reported the provincial government has blown it's direct forest fire fighting budget for five of the past seven fiscal years. So, with the fire season now hitting the front page of newspapers across British Columbia, how close is the government to blowing it's budget this year? Well, in February, the administration projected it would spend $62 million on such expenses in 2009/10 - $46 million less than the average amount spent on forest fire fighting over the past ten fiscal years. And, as of yesterday, the ministry of forests and range reports the government has paid out $52.5 million of that amount. Although, once again, the government stressed it is "always prepared to spend what’s necessary to protect the public."

On Wednesday, Health Minister Kevin Falcon said funding from his ministry would increase by 5.8 percent in this fiscal year and not a penny more. Even though the health system needs $360 million over and above that to keep up with demand. But, despite accusations to the contrary, Minister Falcon's announcement is actually consistent with what the Liberals said they'd do to protect that system.

Former provincial New Democrat attorney general Colin Gabelmann told Public Eye Radio yesterday an independent custodian is needed to safeguard government records - determining what must be saved and what can be deleted. "I think you have to have an oversight body that is neutral and not connected to the political process who can say, 'Yes, this is transitory; No, this is a permanent record.' He said that custodian could be an all-party legislative committee, an officer of the legislature or even information and privacy commissioner David Loukidelis. Mr. Gabelmann made the proposal following revelations the government ordered the deletion of high-level emails that may have a bearing on the legislature raid trial.

Former provincial New Democrat attorney general Colin Gabelmann said yesterday he regrets exempting British Columbia Railway Co. from freedom of information requests. At the time of that exemption, Mr. Gabelmann said it was necessary to protect the company from competitors. But, speaking on Public Eye Radio, Mr. Gabelmann said he was personally opposed to it. "We had long and I mean long - months and months and months of debate about it. I insisted from the beginning that BC Rail should be included. And others in cabinet - who had different views - argued against it."

Last month, constitutional expert and former British Columbia Court of Appeals Justice Ron Cheffins told Public Eye it was "inappropriate" for Mike de Jong to be the Campbell administration's house leader and attorney general. And, in an interview on Public Eye Radio, former New Democrat attorney general Colin Gabelmann also expressed concern about that dual role.

As a participant in Food TV's The 100 Mile Challenge, Randy Hawes committed to adopt the popular diet for 100 days. But, in an interview with Public Eye Radio, the minister of state for mining said he personally would oppose government supporting for that diet, preferring market forces do that work. And he questioned whether it's more environmentally-friendly than other ways of eating.

Minister of State for Mining Randy Hawes doesn't know if the government will be re-introducing its controversial Resource Road Act. But, speaking on Public Eye Radio, this is what he had to say about the bill, which would allow forest companies to establish fees for the use of those corridors: "I can tell you forestry is not exactly in a vibrant place today. And to put all of the onus on a forestry company in these times when there are other users, I guess you've got to ask is there fairness there and is that impeding forestry or the maintenance on the roads?"

Minister of State for Mining Randy Hawes won't be traveling to Saskatchewan to see how uranium can be safely extracted. Last month, on Public Eye Radio, the Association for Mineral Exploration British Columbia's president and chief executive officer said he invited the Campbell administration to take that trip as part of a campaign to convince government to rescind its prohibition on uranium and thorium exploration and mining. But, in an interview Sunday, Minister Hawes said, "I have talked to Gavin Dirom about this. And I do understand how they feel. However, we know that the public, so far, has told us that they don't want to see uranium mining or exploration in British Columbia."

Sunday morning, on Public Eye Radio, British Columbia's Minister of State for Mining Randy Hawes joins us to discuss his government's resource agenda and his recent participation in The 100 Mile Challenge. Former provincial New Democrat attorney general Colin Gabelmann talks about the possible destruction of high-level documents from cabinet and the premier's office. And our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, David Cubberley, Bernard Schulmann 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 8:00 and 10:00. Or check us out after the show by downloading our podcast. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us or leave a comment below.

Earlier, we reported Prime Minister Stephen Harper might be visiting the Lower Mainland in the first week of August. We can now confirm that visit, which will include a mix and mingle event at Senator Gerry St. Germain's ranch on August 4 between 5:30 to 8:30 in the evening. Barbecue chicken will be served, with party members being charged $25 per ticket. The following is a complete copy of the invite to that event.

Prime Minister Stephen Harper could soon be making an appearance in British Columbia. Our understanding is there's a strong chance the prime minister will be in the Lower Mainland sometime during the first week of August to rally party members.

Earlier, we reported on the increasing number of provincial New Democrat caucus and party officials who are leaving their posts. And now we can add another name to that list. In an interview with Public Eye, party communications director David Bieber confirmed he'll be joining the Health Sciences Association of BC's communication team in September. "I've been doing this for 12 years and I love doing it. But we've got a kid now though. So I've been looking to do something that's a bit more regular hours - a bit of a quieter job - for some time," he explained.

Provincial civil servants will no longer be able to post anonymously on their public service intranet's comments board - even though they expressly told the government they wanted to keep that option. In an email sent to bureaucrats on Wednesday and obtained by Public Eye, the government explained eliminating anonymous comments "should result in fewer negative comments," ensuring the forum is "a positive tool for sharing ideas, observations and constructive dialogue."

American rock musician Meat Loaf once declared he would do "anything for love (but I won't do that)." And the privatization-loving provincial Liberals sang the same tune when confronted with a proposal to put the government's lucrative lottery operations in private hands. Records obtained exclusively by Public Eye show well-known party supporter Lyall Knott pitched privatizing (or, as he put it, monetizing) that business between 2007 and 2008.

Earlier, we reported Glen Sanford's "short-term project" as provincial New Democrat caucus communications director would soon be coming to an end. But the party doesn't seem to have put much effort into finding a replacement. The reason: the posting for that job was circulated on July 30 - just 11 days before the application deadline. The following is a complete copy of the posting.

Shirley Bond was flying high in government's most recent fiscal year, booking $103,082 in travel expenses - more than any other provincial cabinet minister. It's the first time Minister Bond, who billed $76,443 the year prior, has been in the top spot. Asked about the increase, Minister Bond told Public Eye, "Simply put, I made more trips back and forth to Prince George which, for me as an MLA, is absolutely critical."

Since losing the election, some commentators have called on Carole James to axe her hacks - the senior party and caucus officials who advise her. But recent departures mean the provincial New Democrat leader soon might not have any hacks left to axe.

We're pleased to announce that, beginning this week, Public Eye's syndicated column can now be read in The Squamish Chief and The Whistler Question. In March, the Canadian Community Newspaper Association judged both publications as being Canada's best all-around newspapers in their respective circulation categories. Combined, The Squamish Chief and The Whistler Question reach 30,000 readers in the Sea to Sky corridor. Public Eye can also be read in Monday Magazine.

Earlier, we mentioned provincial Green deputy leader Damian Kettlewell took a leave of absence following the party's May 25 annual general meeting. In an interview with Public Eye, Mr. Kettlewell said he spoke to party president Walter Meyer zu Erpen about taking a leave after saying "some things in The Georgia Straight that kind of rankled some feathers" - telling the newspaper's Carlito Pablo he was receptive to the idea of an alliance with the New Democrats.

On Canada Day, provincial Green deputy leader Damian Kettlewell's private liquor store put a poster at nearby public store, advertising the fact his shop was open over the holiday. So what is his personal political opinion on the place of public stores in the liquor retail business? In an interview with Public Eye, Mr. Kettlewell, who is on a leave of absence as deputy leader, responded, "I definitely support the public liquor stores. I don't really like to mix my business and my politics. But I support the status quo. And we're just providing a service. It's pretty standard for private liquor stores to let people know (about their hours). Because a lot of the public doesn't know when liquor stores are closed because some are closed on Sundays and some aren't closed on Sundays." The following is a complete copy of the aforementioned poster.

Last week, in response to a question from Public Eye, Finance Minister Colin Hansen said discretionary grants to social service agencies could be impacted by the government's effort to find $1.9 billion in administrative efficiencies over three years. In fact, in an interview with CHNL's Angelo Iacobucci, Housing and Social Development Minister Rich Coleman said today he's ordered a detailed review of those grants, which could be "anything from a food bank to a group of people who’ve been working, like for instance there’s a group that’s doing outreach. And you could say, 'Okay, if we look into an area we might have five or six different outreach teams. Do we really need five or six? Can we do it with three and get better efficiencies? And if we can save a few hundred thousand dollars, can we put them into something that we could do more support for people who are living housing?'”

Last month, Kamloops This Week's Dale Bass reported the Interior Health Authority is "asking its non-contract employees to give up 10 days of pay" as part of a voluntary reduced work week pilot program designed to help address its 2009/10 "budget challenges." According to an email authored by the authority's chief human resources officer Brenda Rebman and obtained by Public Eye, that initiative is "related" to a similar program already underway in the provincial government. But what the email doesn't mention is the fact only five percent of civil servants signed-up for that government program, saving just $2 million. This, according to The Tyee's Andrew Macleod. The following is a complete copy of the aforementioned email.

Earlier, we reported on the departure of top tourism, culture and the arts bureaucrat Bruce Okabe on August 31, 2008. Two months later, Mr. Okabe joined InterVISTAS Consulting Inc. as a senior vice-president with the firm's business strategy group. But now he's back on the public payroll - in Alberta. Last week, the Edmonton Journal reported Travel Alberta has hired him as its new chief executive officer.

During the recent election, the incumbent provincial Liberals obstinately refused to admit they would likely miss their $495 million deficit target for fiscal 2009/10, despite worsening financial news and forecasts. But the New Democrats didn't revise their fiscal plan either, which projected an $877 million deficit. Nor did they do much to raise budget issues on the campaign trail.

For the past five years, I've been holding British Columbia's public institutions to account - along with the elected and unelected officials who are supposed to serve those institutions. But during last month's swearing-in ceremony, provincial New Democrat Saanich South legislator Lana Popham asked me if she could have a shot at holding me to account, if she could come into the studio to ask me some tough questions - the same kind of tough questions I've asked her. And since I'm a strong advocate for media accountability, I agreed.

Last week, Finance Minister Colin Hansen announced what everyone had expected - the provincial government likely won't meet it's $495 million deficit target for fiscal 2009/10. But he rejected a suggestion he's been Pollyanish for standing by the target in the face of worsening financial news and forecasts. The reason: because, according to Minister Hansen, government bases its budget on "real numbers" and "real data" not "speculation." But that reasoning doesn't make sense.

Sunday morning, on Public Eye Radio, Carrier Sekani Tribal Chief David Luggi discusses his opposition to the proposed Recognition and Reconciliation Act. Provincial New Democrat finance critic Bruce Ralston joins us to talk about the state of the government's finances. And our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Eleanor Gregory, 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 8:00 and 10:00. Or check us out after the show by downloading our podcast. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us or leave a comment below.

Earlier, we reported on BC-STV volunteer James Douglas Roy's lengthy critique on why electoral reform failed at the ballot box during the recent election. But now Mr. Roy will be helping build the organization responsible for that failed campaign. In an email sent to supporters, Fair Voting BC president Arjun Singh announced Mr. Roy, along with five others, have been acclaimed as interim members of the group's board of directors. The following is a complete copy of that email.

The provincial government could be putting discretionary grants to social service agencies on the chopping block. Speaking with reporters today, Finance Minister Colin Hansen acknowledged discretionary grants could be "impacted" by the government's effort to find $1.9 billion in administrative efficiencies over three years. Asked whether grants "impacted" would include those allocated to social service agencies, the minister said, "We're going through all the discretionary grants line-by-line. In some cases, you've got organizations that may be doing great work. But then you realize it's a duplication of what somebody else is doing. So let's find ways to get those groups working together that reduces the administrative cost of delivering that front-line service."

Finance Minister Colin Hansen said today he is "not optimistic at all" that it is "anywhere near possible" to meet the government's $495 million deficit target for fiscal 2009/10. Minister Hansen said he reached that conclusion following after his government received personal income and corporate tax revenue estimates from the federal finance department on June 24. He said those estimates show personal income tax "is going to be significantly lower than they had anticipated." But the "biggest impact - and the one that sort of took my breathe away - was what was happening on corporate income tax revenues for 2008."

The Campbell administration will be encouraging British Columbians to develop personal health plans, Public Eye has exclusively learned. The government first said it would be reviewing those plans "as a possible model for B.C.'s health care" in its February 2005 throne speech. A year later, Premier Gordon Campbell told The Province's Ian Bailey he was interested in taking look at that model while in the United Kingdom, where health care teams already work with citizens to develop so-called "Personal Health Guides" to help them "achieve their health goals." And now those plans have been listed as one of four strategic projects at the ministry of health living and sport. This, according to a document quietly posted on BC Bid earlier today.

Since last year, the Campbell administration has been releasing compensation disclosure statements for its top-paid executives. That's a laudable policy. But what isn't laudable is a recent decision that will restrict online access to the salary ranges of everyone else working for the province - including political aides. That information was previously available on the public service agency's salary administration Web page. But those ranges or pay schedules have just been moved to the government's intranet, which can only be accessed by employees.

British Columbia New Democrat provincial secretary Laura Nichols will be leaving the party in January. In an interview with Public Eye, Ms. Nichols confirmed she told the party executive last month she didn't want to renew her three-year contract, which expired on July 1. But she'll be staying on for the next six months to give the New Democrats time to find a replacement.

Yesterday, we reported Premier Gordon Campbell didn't specifically mention the government's proposed Recognition and Reconciliation Act in recent statements commemorating the National Day of Reconciliation and National Aboriginal Day. Instead, at one point, he simply stated government "must continue building the New Relationship and exploring different ways, through either legislation or agreement" to "close the gaps between First Nations and non-First Nations." And that phrase "legislation or agreement" cropped up in the Nanaimo Daily News earlier this month.

Earlier, we reported leftists will be meeting tonight to discuss taking back the provincial New Democrats on behalf of "working and marginalized people." But they're not the only ones who will be talking about the future of that party tonight. Another group is meeting at the Hotel Vancouver to discuss how the New Democrats can be more successful in the future.

The First Nations Leadership Council is preparing a concept paper or series of papers detailing the land title recognition options for indigenous peoples in British Columbia, Public Eye has exclusively learned. In an interview, First Nations Summit Grand Chief Ed John said those document are meant to provide a basis for discussion at an upcoming forum for aboriginal leaders scheduled to take place over four days during the last week of August.

There was a surprising omission when Premier Gordon Campbell released a statement last month commemorating the National Day of Reconciliation. In the statement, the premier noted the province is "building on our New Relationship with Aboriginal people. This relationship was founded on mutual respect, recognition and reconciliation. We are building economic opportunities in Aboriginal communities. We are supporting the development of Aboriginal governance. We are working to improve the lives of Aboriginal people." But there was no specific mention of the government's proposed and controversial Recognition and Reconciliation Act.

Earlier, we reported four of the Legal Services Society of British Columbia's top-paid executives are given a $4,704 "parking benefit." That's much higher than the median rate for unreserved parking in Vancouver. So what gives? "The parking fee in the building is $350 a month - which works out with GST and PST to the amount recorded" in the society's executive compensation disclosure statement, explained society communications manager Brad Daisley.

Last month, real estate services company Colliers International reported the median rate for monthly unreserved parking in Vancouver was $224.00 or $2,688 per year. But the Legal Services Society of British Columbia, the non-profit organization which provides legal aid in this province, gives four of its five top-paid executives a $4,704 "parking benefit." The society hasn't yet responded to repeated inquiries as to why that benefit is so much higher than the median rate.

Earlier, we reported Warren Buckley, who returned to B.C. Pavilion Corp. as its president and chief executive after an eight year absence, is making 166.67 percent more than he did when left that same job in 2000, earning $400,000 in fiscal 2008/09. So why the increase? Well, in an interview with Public Eye, corporation chair David Podmore explained, "I know, at the time you refer to in 2001, the feeling was that that salary was too low for the nature of the position. But, I guess more importantly, the position is very different today. You're talking about a facility that is virtually five times the size of the facility that was being managed in the year 2001."

You don't often expect compensation packages for the provincial government's top bureaucrats to be reduced. But that's what happened to Partnerships British Columbia chief executive officer Larry Blain in March 2007. That's when the company's board directors reduced Mr. Blain's short-term incentive pay from 50 to 30 percent of his salary. This, after a biennial external review found such a reduced bonus would be more in-line with comparable executives. As a result, Mr. Blain's short-term incentive pay for fiscal 2007/08 was $105,000 rather than $143,400 he received in 2006/07.

Last month, provincial New Democrat president Jeff Fox stepped down. And his replacement Sav Dhaliwal has said doesn't intend to run for that post at the party's upcoming November convention. So who is going to make a bid for that job? Well, how about British Columbia Federation of Labour policy development director Lynn Bueckert, who is also the assistant to its president Jim Sinclair? Asked whether she was interested in heading the party, Ms. Bueckert said, "I haven't ruled it, let's put it that way. But I haven't put forward any kind of indication that I'm going to do so. I'm a (party) table officer and have been for the last four years and there's a vacancy. So, of course people always think about these things. I'm sure all table officers are thinking about it. But, really, that's as far as its gone."

Last week, we reported the provincial ministry of children and family development hired a child rights adviser known to its deputy minister at $275 per hour without going through a competitive process. According to records obtained by the Vancouver Courier's Allen Garr, that's more than than the $250 per hour former civil service head Ken Dobell made when he was contracted to work as a special advisor to the premier. New Democrat critic Maurine Karagianis has called that arrangement "completely outrageous." But this isn't the first time the ministry's spending has been questioned in recent years.

Earlier, we reported "concerned individuals and organizations" will be meeting on Tuesday to discuss taking back the provincial New Democrats on behalf of the province's "working and marginalized people." But this isn't the first time the left has attempted to reassert themselves. In 2004, those dissatisfied with the New Democrats' centrist policies organized an unsuccessful movement called Left Turn to field "independent labour and community candidates" in the 2005 election. So what makes those behind this more recent effort think they'll be more successful?

In 2004, then provincial New Democrat youth co-chair Mike Palecek criticized party leader Carole James for having come "to power without a platform. She said nothing concrete in her campaign for leader and clearly had no real plan for how to move forward." So, five years later, does Mr. Palecek think that criticism is still valid? "Well, actually I think I would say I made a mistake in that analysis," he responded, in an interview on Public Eye Radio.

Last month, provincial New Democrat legislator Harry Lali said his party - in an effort to move to the middle ground of the political spectrum - has been "neglecting our left." But members of the left aren't neglecting the New Democrats. On Tuesday, Fightback editorial board member Mike Palecek and former Vancouver city councillor Tim Louis will be speaking at a public meeting organized to "take back" the party.

Sunday morning, on Public Eye Radio, provincial New Democrat legislator Lana Popham interviews host Sean Holman as part of our commitment to media accountability. Fightback editorial member Mike Palecek discuss his effort to "take back" the New Democrats. And our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Bob Russell, Allan Warnke and Monday Magazine's Jason Youmans - 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 8:00 and 10:00. Or check us out after the show by downloading our podcast. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us or leave a comment below.

When Warren Buckley resigned as president of the B.C. Pavilion Corp. in November 2000 to become president of the Singapore International Convention and Exhibition Centre, he was making $150,000 - along with a $40,000 bonus. This, according to records obtained by The Province's Helen Plischke. At the time, then tourism minister Ian Waddell said that salary was "rather high - too high." So what do you think Mr. Waddell would have to say about the fact Mr. Buckley, who returned to the corporation in January 2008 as its president and chief executive officer, is now making $400,000 - 166.67 percent more then he did before. And that's not counting the $125,000 bonus he received covering the 15 months between January 2008 and March 2009.

Last year, the Campbell administration announced it would be increasing the base salaries for its top bureaucrats by an average of 7.38 percent or $14,960 to $217,758. But the government refused to release the names of which deputy ministers would be getting raises because those selections were made on the basis of job performance. Nevertheless, thanks to compensation disclosure statements for the public service's five highest-paid bureaucrats, we now know finance deputy minister Chris Trumpy's salary increased by 7.83 percent or $16,964.08 to $233,698.78. Deputy attorney general saw his salary increase by 5.97 percent or $13,199.88 to $234,405.48. And health deputy minister Gord Macatee's salary increased by 3.69 percent or $8,159 to $221,205.60. The salaries for Jessica McDonald, the premier's deputy minister, and Martyn Brown, the premier's chief of staff, didn't increase. Messers. Trumpy and Macatee have since retired from the civil service.

Earlier, we reported Jeff Fox had resigned as president of the provincial New Democrats to avoid a possible perceived conflict of interest. So who has replaced him? Well, that would be party vice-president Sav Dhaliwal. Mr. Dhaliwal was elected to serve out the remainder of Mr. Fox's term. But, in an interview with Public Eye, the Burnaby councillor said he doesn't intend to run for that post at the party's upcoming convention, which is scheduled to take place between November 27 to 29 at The Westin Bayshore in Vancouver.

British Columbia's ministry of children and family development is moving to tighten rules on how it hires consultants, following inquiries about a child rights adviser who was appointed without using competitive process. In the late summer of 2006, the ministry hand picked Brent Parfitt, a child rights adviser known to its deputy minister, using a secondment agreement. Unlike most secondees drafted from their employers, the ministry arranged for Mr. Parfitt to bill like a contractor, paying him $275 an hour, a rate that over a full work year would have earned him more than the highest paid bureaucrat in the public service.

Provincial New Democrat president Jeff Fox has resigned. The reason: earlier, we reported Mr. Fox had married party secretary Laura Nichols. As a result, in an email sent to constituency association presidents, council delegates and provincial executives, Mr. Fox notified them he would be stepping down "to avoid any perception of conflict that may arise." The following is a complete copy of that email.

Last week, records obtained by former provincial New Democrat legislator David Schreck revealed the provincial government suppressed the release of damaging welfare caseload numbers until after the election. The reason: the minister responsible, Ben Stewart, told The Globe and Mail's Justine Hunter the civil service was just trying to "remain neutral and non-partisan about all information except for information about public safety." But the government didn't seem to have any compunction about releasing such statistics during past election periods.

The BC Agriculture Council applied to strip migrant farm workers of the labour rights enjoyed by Canadian workers while Steve Thomson, British Columbia's new agriculture and lands minister, was its executive director. In a submission made to the Labour Relations Board on September 29, 2008, the council and the Western Agriculture Labour Initiative, said the province's Labour Relations Code can't constitutionally apply to foreign nationals working in British Columbia under the Seasonal Agricultural Workers Program - preventing them from unionizing.