Sunday, on Public Eye Radio, London Citizens living wage campaign chair Deborah Littman shares her thoughts on how to promote economic equality in British Columbia. Quality of Life Challenge chair Maureen Young discusses efforts by the private sector to alleviate poverty in Victoria. And Simon Fraser University senior communications lecturer Donald Gutstein talks about CanWest Global Communications Corp.'s recent legal action against The Tyee and activists who published a parody of The Vancouver Sun. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Bob Russell, Alex Tsakumis and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us or leave a comment below.

Sunday, on Public Eye Radio, Vancouver Island Exploration Group Bill 30 direct action committee chair Dan Berkshire discusses his concerns about the Resource Road Act. Auracle Geospatial Science Inc. principal David McLland shares his thoughts on British Columbia's uranium mining ban. And former British Columbia Federation of Labour executive director Geoff Meggs talks about the Campbell administration's proposed limits on third party advertising. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Bob Russell, Alex Tsakumis and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us or leave a comment below.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, former University of Victoria human and social development faculty dean Brian Wharf shares his thoughts on the ministry of children and family development's good practice action plan. Thompson Rivers University assistant journalism professor Alan Bass talks about the need to professionalize journalists. And British Columbia Government and Service Employees' Union president George Heyman opines on the Campbell administration's outsourcing initiatives. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Bob Russell, Alex Tsakumis and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, British Columbia Association of Social Workers' child welfare and family committee chair Paul Jenkinson shares his thoughts on the children and youth representative's recent report. Journalists Bob Mackin and Stanley Tromp discuss secrecy at the Vancouver 2010 Olymic Games. And Maquila Solidarity Network advocacy director Kevin Thomas talks about how sportswear companies are treating their overseas workers. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Bob Russell, Alex Tsakumis and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, former provincial deputy minister Jon O'Riordan shares his thoughts on adapting to climate change. Grassland ecologist Don Gayton tells us how global warming is impacting the Interior of British Columbia. And our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Bob Russell, Alex Tsakumis and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, Pembina Institute British Columbia energy solutions acting director Matt Horne discusses the province's new carbon trading legislation. Richmond school trustee Chak Au shares his thoughts on how our school boards are changing. And The Leader's Jeff Nagel talks about increased secrecy at TransLink. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Alex Tsakumis and Brad Zubyk - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, Nelson city councillor Gord McAdams discusses his effort to reduce local government freedom of information request fees. Pivot Legal Society co-founder Ann Livingston shares with us her thoughts on how the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics will impact civil liberties. And our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Bob Russell, Alex Tsakumis and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, Vancouver-False Creek provincial Liberal nomination candidate Mary McNeil discusses why she wants to sit in the legislature. Lawyer David Sutherland shares his thoughts on the need to reform the country's defamation laws. And our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Bob Russell, Alex Tsakumis and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, University of Victoria Harvey Stevenson Southam lecturer Charles Campbell discusses the future of investigative blogging in Canada. Journalist and social activist Murray Dobbin weighs in on former Reform leader Preston Manning's efforts to organize the right. And Alaskan lawyer Joe Geldhof tells us why Canada should be paying closer attention to cruise ship pollution. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Bob Russell, Alex Tsakumis and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, British Columbia's new conflict of interest commissioner Paul Fraser discusses the future of his office. The Tyee's Monte Paulsen and Carnegie Community Action Plan organizer Wendy Pedersen share their thoughts about the Campbell administration's housing endowment fund. And our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Bob Russell, Alex Tsakumis and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, First Call coordinator Adrienne Montani comments on a Campbell administration proposal to expand kindergarten. Former New Democrat cabinet minister Paul Ramsey shares his thoughts on what party leader Carole James needs to do to win the next election. And Agriculture and Lands Minister Pat Bell discusses the Campbell administration's new agricultural plan. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Bob Russell, Alex Tsakumis and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, Consumer Advocacy and Support for Homeowners Society acting president John Grasty and Canadian Association of Home Property Inspectors president Bill Sutherland discusses the Campbell administration's initiative to regulate home inspectors. And Royal British Columbia Museum botany and earth history curator Richard Hebda shares his concerns about biomass power projects. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Bob Russell, Alex Tsakumis and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, Patti Bacchus talks about her experience as a participant at the Campbell administration's recent parent congress. The Grand Forks Gazette's Jason Harshenin discusses his recent investigation into provincial playground funding. And Interntional Play Association board member Valerie Fronczek shares her thoughts on how the government can be encouraging play in our schools. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Bob Russell, Alex Tsakumis and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, provincial New Democrat children and family development critic Nicholas Simons shares his thoughts on the state of his portfolio. Save Our Rivers Society board member Tom Rankin discusses Plutonic Power Corporation Inc.'s recent hiring practices. And Moira Stilwell, the head of nuclear medicine at Saint Paul's and Surrey Memorial Hospitals, talks about her bid to become a provincial Liberal candidate. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Bob Russell, Alex Tsakumis and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, provincial New Democrat transportation critic Maurine Karagianis shares her thoughts on the recent controversy surrounding the premier's former special advisor Ken Dobell. Saanich-Gulf Islands federal Liberal candidate Briony Penn talks about her bid to unseat Conservative incumbent Gary Lunn. And Association for Mineral Exploration British Columbia president and chief executive officer Dan Jepsen discusses the present state of the mining industry in British Columbia. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Bob Russell, Alex Tsakumis and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, former Youth Employment Project executive director Richard LeBlanc tells us about his plan to help out Victoria's homeless. Ex-provincial Liberal legislator Art Cowie shares his thoughts on what the Campbell administration needs to do to attract around 50 new election candidates. And New Democrat finance critic Bruce Ralston weighs in on the government's controversial new oath ceremonies. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Bob Russell, Alex Tsakumis and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, former federal Liberal nomination candidate John Moonen discusses his party's chances in West Vancouver-Sunshine Coast-Sea to Sky Country. New Democrat candidate Dana Larsen will also weigh in on the topic. And American historian and cultural critic Michael Fellman shares his views on the result of the recent Iowa caucuses. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Bob Russell, Alex Tsakumis and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, Association of Canadian Editorial Cartoonists president Michael De Adder discusses The Province's recent decision to re-assign or buy-out its two editorial cartoonists. New Democrat parliamentarian and former provincial cabinet minister Penny Priddy talks about her party's upcoming leaders' summit. And our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Bob Russell, Alex Tsakumis and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, Simon Fraser University public policy association professor John Calvert gives some advice to B.C. Hydro Corp.'s new chair. Vancouver-Quadra federal Conservative candidate Deborah Meredith tells us why she deserves to win the upcoming by-election in that riding. And provincial parliamentary secretary Mary Polak discusses the conversation on health's recently released summary of input. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Bob Russell, Alex Tsakumis and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

Last week, we reported the Campbell administration's climate action team had its first meeting last week. The team will have until July 31, 2008 to do their work. And it seems they won't have much of an opportunity to get that work done during the time period. According to team member Naomi Devine, she and her colleagues are scheduled to meet just eight times. In an interview on Public Eye Radio, Ms. Devine explained, "We've got a very quick pace that's been set for us and a big challenge that's been set by the premier. But everybody is pretty enthusiastic about meeting it and the conversations we're going to be having over (climate action) options and where we see the province going."

And what options will she be pushing for? "Many of my dream ideas are already on the table or being taken by the government. But the one that really stands out for me is transportation and public transportation specifically. I really would like to see - and within a very short period of time - public transportation become a viable first option for people. And that involves many things. And I think one of the first things I'd like to talk about is advocating for free public transit within a well-designed, sustainable and integrated system. We've advanced the idea at the University of Victoria where students, of course, get a univeral bus pass. And that has greatly increased the amount of ridership among students. And we've proposed the idea of a U-Pass for the whole university. But if you take that idea further, why don't we have that idea as a policy for everyone in British Columbia."

Ms. Devine, 27, also addressed her status as the youngest member of the climate action team, saying "I don't worry about getting steamrolled. It's quite an interesting table of people who bring a tremendous amount of experience and a wide and diverse amount of experience. But the nice thing about being a youth member is that they're often interested in hearing what I have to say about things and the perspective that I bring. And a lot of people turn, because of the very large nature of this challenge, to what younger people have to say about it."

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, Right to Die Society of Canada president Ruth Von Fuchs talks about a recent conversation on health finding that many British Columbians are "in favour of instituting a process to allow euthanasia or assisted suicide." We'll be discussing the current status of the Bear Mountain tree sit-in. And provincial climate action team member Naomi Devine shares her thoughts on how British Columbia can meet its greenhouse gas emission goals. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Bob Russell, Alex Tsakumis and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, provincial Liberal backbencher Dennis Mackay talks about his effort to reactivate the select standing committee on aboriginal affairs. Former mayoral candidate Ben Isitt discusses the dissolution of the Victoria Civic Electors. And New Democrat house leader Mike Farnworth shares his thoughts on the fall legislative session. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Bob Russell, Alex Tsakumis and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, Gateway 40 Citizens Network coordinator Donna Passmore discusses her part in Gordon Campbell first attempt to meet the climate change challenge. And The Tyee's Andrew Macleod talks about his report into abuse of the developmentally disabled in British Columbia. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Alex Tsakumis and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, select standing committee on finance and government services chair Bill Bennett discusses government's recent round of budget consultations. British Columbia Government and Service Employees Union president George Heyman tells us why the labour movement should be involved in the Campbell administration's climate action plans. And Raincoast Conservation Society biologist Michael Price shares his thoughts on the British Columbia Salmon Farmers Association's latest advertising campaign. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Alex Tsakumis and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, Canadian Women Voters Congress board member Janet Wiegand discusses her group's upcoming women's campaign school. Media Union of British Columbia president Mike Bocking shares his thoughts on recent staff cutbacks at The Vancouver Sun and The Province. And Dogwood Initiative executive director Will Horter explains why we should care about a recent controversy surrounding tree farm licenses. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Bob Russell and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, Union of British Columbia Indian Chiefs president Stewart Phillip shares with his thoughts about the First Nations treaty process. Provincial New Democrat aboriginal relations and reconciliation critic Scott Fraser also weighs in on the issue. And The Tyee's investigative editor Monte Paulsen talks about the influence of big money on local politics. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Alex Tsakumis, Bob Russell and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, North Vancouver-Seymour provincial Liberal legislator Dan Jarvis joins us to discuss why he voted against the Tsawwassen Final Agreement. Green leader Jane Sterk talks about her future vision for the party. And Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows MLA Michael Sather shares his thoughts on the present legislative session. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Alex Tsakumis, Bob Russell and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, Whistler mayor and provincial Green supporter Ken Melamed discusses the party's future. Environmental researcher Howard Breen shares his thoughts on greenhouse gas emissions from the shipping industry. And Peace River Environmental Association member Bob Cameron talks about how development is threatening his favourite waterway. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Alex Tsakumis, Bob Russell and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, Simon Fraser University political science professor Patrick Smith discusses the lack of openness and accountability in local government. Chris Vallee, past president of British Columbia's Qualified Acupuncturist and Traditional Chinese Medicine Association, talks about the Campbell administration's decision to cover acupuncture treatments for low-income British Columbians. And British Columbia Chiropractic Association executive director Don Nixdorf shares his thoughts on what other proceedures the government should be paying for. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Alex Tsakumis, Bob Russell and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, former United Church minister Kevin Annett discusses his film Unrepentant. Bruce Hallsor, honouray counsel for Scouts Canada, talks about how the taxman is threatening summer camps across the province. And federal Liberal Vancouver-Quadra candidate Joyce Murray reacts to the results of yesterday's Conservative nomination meeting in that riding. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Alex Tsakumis, Bob Russell and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, we'll be mixing it up with interim provincial Green leader Christopher Ian Bennett. Merit commissioner Joy Illington discusses the results of her recent annual report. And David Shishcoff, the Canadian correspondent for Friends of Animals, talks about why the promotion of vegetarianism should be government policy. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Alex Tsakumis, Bob Russell and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, former provincial mental health advocate Nancy Hall joins us to discuss plans to upgrade British Columbia's mental health plan. And our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Alex Tsakumis, Bob Russell and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

Last month, Monday Magazine's Russ Francis reported members of the Victoria Civic Electors - the New Democrat's capital city municipal wing - will soon be presented with two different "visions of the future." The first would see the revitalization of the civic electors by "recruiting a new executive to track down enough good candidates so that the New Democrats will control the council." The second, on the other hand, would "dissolve the current organization and establish a committed and experienced investigative team" as part of a possible effort to "create a new organization to elect a majority of 'progressive individuals' to the city council" - an option favoured by the party's former mayoral candidate Ben Isitt.

Speaking on Public Eye Radio this weekend, Mr. Isitt said, "I think it's good that the VCE leadership is looking ahead. My personal view, for some time, has been that Victoria needs a broader civic party. I think there may be a role for the NDP-Green divide in provincial-federal politics - although that is debatable in the long-term. But I think, locally, we just don't benefit by having those divisions. And I think there can be really advantages in having New Democrats, Greens, independents and people from across the political spectrum working together in one common organization."

Continued Mr. Isitt, "I think the Greens have been on the cutting edge of policy development. And New Democrats can learn a lot from that. And, municipally, we have this opportunity to combine the experience and the strong, I think, social movement base of the NDP with these innovative policies of the Greens. The whole provincial and federal debates can be left at the door. Those aren't really necessary if our objective is to ensure there's sound representation in Victoria and the other municipalities and that we have a vision for where we're taking this city and region, I think this proposal can help us accomplish that."

That being said though, Mr. Isitt said there's a "lot of things" the civic electors could do to revitlize themselves. "But I think, given the political alignments in the city, I think the other option is better just to avoid the duplication of various campaigns. You could count six different campaigns of the broadly-defined left in the last election between school board and council. And I think that duplication can be counter-productive."

And what about his personal political future? Is Mr. Isitt going to make another run for mayor? "Mayor, council I'm going to have to decide that," he responded. "I have a daughter now. So I've got a lot of priorities beyond politics - work and my family. But it's fairly certain that I will want to seek elected office in the future - and definitely, right now, I'm looking towards November 2008. But, again, in the last two elections I've kind of run by default in the absence of a strong advocate for environmental and social values. So I'm open to supporting others. Perhaps there's a recent retiree who's just moved to our city who's just a very strong community leader and has strong views. And I'm be happy to support someone like that."

Former provincial New Democrat leadership candidate Craig Keating is urging Carole James to develop a vision for what it means to be a centrist social democratic in British Columbia - before it's too late. Speaking on Public Eye Radio this weekend, Mr. Keating remarked, "There is no guiding principle that defines what social democratic centrism might look like in British Columbia - what ideas we might support whether we're in government in or in opposition. And I think there's a lot of hard work that needs to be done about that."

"I think Carole is in a very unique position," he continued. Having been elected leader of the New Democrats in 2003 - at a time when the party only had two members in the legislature - she "had a unique opportunity to put her imprint on the party. And I think she still has that opportunity" by test running "ideas about what her centrism looks."

But didn't Ms. James show what her centrism looks like in the party's last election platform? "Having been involved - and I don't think I'm speaking out of turn - in some of the debates that created that plaform, I think clearly the platform was articulated to do exactly what it did - which was to highlight a few speaking points that differentiated ourselves from the Liberals and help to portray (Premier) Gordon Campbell as a bad, bad man. And let's face it, let's face political reality - the 33 seats the NDP got in the last election was not because we put forward a centrist agenda. It was because there was a broad group of people across British Columbia who thought Gordon Campbell was a bad, bad man and that he's done a lot of bad things. And that platform helped reinforce that. It was a strategic platform not a visionary platform."

So how does Ms. James go about becoming a visionary? According to Mr. Keating, she needs to deliver a series of "perhaps risky" speeches telling members, "I want to reinvigorate the party on a policy issue. I'm going to put some content on the line. And we're going to move forward to turn this party into something that it hasn't been before. Building on it's past but turning into something that is a twenty-first century social democratic party."

But is Ms. James able to do that? "I know Carole and I've been on the road toward Carole and I have no animus toward Carole. So I'm giving her certainly the benefit of the doubt on this. I don't see anybody else in any of the wings of the party who's going to do it right now," Mr. Keating responded.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, former provincial New Democrat leadership candidate Craig Keating gives Carole James some advice. The party's environmental critic Shane Simpson tell us why the government isn't answering his question about top climate action bureaucrat Graham Whitmarsh. And former Victoria Civic Electors mayoral candidate Ben Isitt weighs in on the municipal party's proposal to disband. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Alex Tsakumis, Bob Russell and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, provincial Liberal legislators Jeff Bray and Sheila Orr share their thoughts on the electoral boundaries commission's preliminary report. Fair Vote BC president Bruce Hallsor gives his take on that report. And University of Victoria journalism professor Lynne Van Luven weighs in on the recent firing of Victoria News editor Keith Norbury. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Alex Tsakumis, Bob Russell and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

Federal Green Vancouver Quadra candidate Dan Grice is going to "really push" the issue of democratic accountability during the upcoming by-election in that riding, proposing a radical change to the way parliamentarians are compensated. Speaking yesterday morning on Public Eye Radio, Mr. Grice said, "if elected, he's prepard to "take half of my salary and put that aside and let my constituents vote whether I should get the rest of that money" - challenging his opponents to make the same commitment. "I come from the private sector. And you don't get paid a flat salary. You get paid performance bonuses," he explained.

Mr. Grice also spoke out against the fact many parliamentarians seem to ignore voters once elected. "The fact MPs don't regularly meet with their constituents is a travesty of our democratic system. Their job is to represent us - not represent the party. It's not vote once every four years and see ya later.” And that's why the Green candidate promises to have regular video conferences with constituents if he gets to Ottawa.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, provincial New Democrat Nelson-Creston legislator Corky Evans shares his thoughts on rural access to British Columbia's healthcare system. Federal Green Vancouver Quadra hopeful Dan Grice discusses his candidacy. And former British Columbia Government and Service Employees' Union president John Shields gives his take on the Campbell administration's recent reinvestment in the civil service. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Alex Tsakumis, Bob Russell and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, former District of Sechelt planner Hans Penner tells us why watersheds and logging don't mix. South Island Health Coalition co-chair Carole Pickup tell us how American documentary filmmaker Michael Moore is helping protect Canada's public healthcare system. And Pembina Institute British Columbia policy director Karen Campbell shares her thoughts on provincial government subsidies to the oil and gas industry. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Alex Tsakumis, Bob Russell and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, Montana public service commissioner Ken Toole shares his concern about the Pacific Northwest Economic Region council. Legendary broadcaster Rafe Mair will be discussing his new talk show. And Vancouver Quadra federal New Democrat candidate Rebecca Coad talks about her candidacy. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Alex Tsakumis, Bob Russell and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

Last week, we exclusively told you the Campbell administration is apparently supporting a controversial plan to staff a proposed underground coal mine with workers from China. Speaking on Public Eye Radio yesterday morning, British Columbia Federation of Labour president Jim Sinclair said that support is partially explained by the fact the provincial government wants "to get more economic development in certain areas." That being said though, Mr. Sinclair added, "When companies yell at this government, they jump. It doesn't matter whether it's changing the rules for forest companies or changing the rules for mining companies. Whatever it is, they are more interested in making sure Howe Street and those guys are happier than workers." Which is why, according to Mr. Sinclair, then Minister of State for Mining Bill Bennett spoke to the federal government about the mine's staffing plans.

Last week, interim provincial Green leader Christopher Ian "Wonder Boy" Bennett, urged those seeking the party's top job to "move the party to the middle on some policies" and make inroads with the business community. This, according to a report by The Globe and Mail's Laura Drake. But at least one of those leadership candidates was less than enthusiastic about Mr. Bennett's message. Speaking on Public Eye Radio yesterday morning, former Green campaign co-chair Silvaine Zimmerman said she thinks the interim leader made that statement just to grab a headline. "I know he has said to us in the past that the way to get in the news is to say things that are controversial. And I think he's right about that. But I'm not sure if that is a really good strategy actually. Because it does create internal controversy."

Continued Ms. Zimmerman, "I'm very much into inclusive, cooperative, working-together, solutions-oriented politics. And I think creating controversy may get you into the news. But I don't think it's a very constructive way of doing it. So I disagree with both his strategy and his vision there because I don't think (being) centrist is a meaningful concept. I think having a big tent is a meaningful concept. Working together with anyone who has a good idea - whatever party they're from - is a good concept. If that's what he means - fine. But if he thinks we have to somehow blunt our message or change it somehow or message-massage it into some sort of fudged version of what we're about - I don't agree with that."

During the interview, the party's former external liason also said she would like to see the Greens have co-leaders rather than just one spokesperson. "Ideally, there would be two main spokespeople. In other parts of the world where this is employed, it's usually one man, one woman. And they are chosen by the general membership. And they help each other be spokespeople. As you know, there's a lot of work to be done as any kind of politician - but especially as a leader-type figure."

"I talked with the late Green Party leader of New Zealand. And he said that it really helps them spell each other off. If one is off on the campaign trail or travelling around the globe interacting - doing the sort of activist Green thing - the other one can still be at home attending parliamentary sessions and doing the more directly political thing. So you're kind of juggling all the balls without having to clone yourself."

The candidate said, if she wins, she would prefer to have the party membership pick a co-leader. "But if it's not possible to do it that way, then I think Ben (West) would be my number one choice, yes...I think we would work really, really well together. And I would be so jumping up and down happy if we could work as a team officially. Because he's the same age I was when I started the Green Party. He's around 30. Actually, he just turned 30. So I think he has a connection to the youthful grassroots that we need in the party."

"I think a lot of activist movements lately in the world have been populated by sort of late generation ex-hippies or just the generation that came after. So when you're in a room of activists you are almost looking at a room full of people with grayish or graying or even white hair. And that's not a very healthy situation. I think we really need to bring young people in. So one thing that makes Ben special is that he's younger. And he has an amazing dynamic with people," Ms. Zimmerman.

"He's very much the networker like I am too. And so I think we have a very similar style. We're both very inclusive. And we tend to inspire people to join at least our larger group of friends - if not inspire them to become Green Party members which is our final goal as far as party politics is concerned. Our big goal is to help save the world."

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, provincial Green leadership contender Silvaine Zimmerman discusses her run for the party's top job. Saanich-Gulf Islands federal New Democrat hopeful Julian West shares his thoughts on a recent attempt to make sure the Greens don't run a candidate in that riding. And British Columbia Federation of Labour president Jim Sinclair weighs in on the Campbell administration's apparent support for a plan to staff a proposed underground coal mine with workers from China. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Bernard Schulmann, Alex Tsakumis 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 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, former Vancouver-Point Grey provincial Green candidate Damian Kettlewell discusses his bid for the party leadership. Dogwood Initiative executive director Will Horter reacts to the nomination of Andrew Lewis as the federal Green candidate in Saanich-Gulf Islands. And David Coon, policy director for the New Brunswick Conservation Council, talks about what's being done in the Maritime provinces to combat climate change. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Bill Tieleman, Alex Tsakumis 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 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, former Terminal City columnist Brian Salmi discusses his new book Booze Up And Riot and the necessity of gonzo journalism. Former Green candidate Jack Etkin talks about his bid for the provincial party's leadership. And Mary Polak, parliamentary secretary for the conversation on health, shares her thoughts on the state of that discussion. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Alex Tsakumis, Bob Russell and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

Ben West says the fact he knows the provincial Greens "inside and out" makes him the right candidate to lead the party. In a wide-ranging interview yesterday on Public Eye Radio, Mr. West - the party's former outreach coordinator - says he's "in regular communication with many of our members. So that puts me in a good position to be able to get the ball rolling, in terms of getting our party where it needs to be. But, beyond that, I'm also a film maker and a relatively experienced communicator - which, I think, puts me in a good place to sort of start talking to people in ways that they're not accustom to, to try to redefine the party and to reach out to some groups that we haven't been as effective as we could be in speaking to like youth, for example."

But isn't that the job of a backroom boy not a party leader? "I think it's the party leader's job to rally the troops and to get everybody moving in the same direction," Mr. West responded. "And I'm going to come forward and really try to push our party in the direction that's necessary. I think it not only takes a push from behind the scenes but it also really takes a push from the leadership itself to get everybody excited about a specific course of action and to really start taking steps toward success."

Mr. West, who turns 30 today, also addressed concerns he might be too young to lead the Greens, stating "youth needs a voice in this province province. And what's really important is speaking clearly and knowing what you're talking about and being a voice of authority. And I think I can provide that voice. So I don't think age is really a factor."

Nor is Mr. West worried about having been a Work Less Party candidate - first provinciailly and then in the Vancouver mayoral race. "When I was running for the Work Less Party I worked harder than anytime I have in my life. I can understand if people think the name is silly. It's silly on purpose. And the party used it to get people's attention. And if people continue to start paying attention to what I have to say because of the role that I played with the Work Less Party, I think that's fine."

Indeed, Mr. West says he he saw "the work I was doing there more as media activism. I made a film for the Work Less Party - Alarm Clocks Kill Dreams. That was actually what first got me involved was doing that work. And I realized that I really had a passion for organized politics while in the midst of debating mayoral candidates and provincial candidates and doing the sort of organizing work that's involved. So...this was kind of a stepping stone for me. I realized that this was something I had a passion for. And I knew that if I was serious about it that the real natural home for me was the Green Party."

Mr. West, who's already raised more than half his campaign budget, says the Greens will be releasing the official list of leadership candidates tomorrow.

This morning, on Public Eye Radio, The Tyee's Monte Paulsin joins us to discuss the homelessness probloem in Vancouver. Consumer Association of Canada president Bruce Cran weighs in on new details about how the provincial government is propping up the private liquor store industry. And Ben West discusses his run for the Green leadership. Also on the show: our rabble-rousing panel - Don Anderson, Alex Tsakumis, Bob Russell and Allan Warnke - debate the week that was in provincial and federal politics. You can listen to Public Eye Radio outside of Victoria by logging into CFAX 1070 between 8:30 and 10:00. If you have a question for one of our guests, you can email us, leave a comment below or phone (250) 386-1161 during the show.

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