Gordon Campbell’s resignation doesn’t change B.C. Liberal record
November 3, 2010
While the timing of Premier Gordon Campbell’s resignation may have caught some observers by surprise, it was inevitable. And it was the right thing to do.
The B.C. Liberals have broken trust with the people they were elected to serve. No issue shows that more clearly than the HST. And while the much-hated tax may have been the final straw for the premier’s leadership, let’s not forget the role all B.C. Liberals have played.Every single B.C. Liberal MLA perpetuated the HST deception. Every single one of them were active participants in a government that slashed public services and shut people out-an approach that’s culminated in growing social equality and a more divided society.
Today, British Columbia has the lowest minimum wage, the highest cost of living, and the highest child poverty rate in the country.
No new leader can change those facts. And that person will have to answer some tough questions about the B.C. Liberal record.
Like why the government spent $6 million of taxpayer funds to cover the legal fees of two convicted B.C. Liberal insiders.
Like whether the HST referendum date will be moved up, to end the economic uncertainty for families and businesses alike. And whether the premier’s commitment to a simple majority in that referendum will be honoured.
The public deserves answers. And they deserve a government that’s prepared to focus on their priorities and take action on issues that matter to them.
But I have my doubts as to whether those answers will be forthcoming. As a leadership contest begins and the infighting and internal jockeying begins, British Columbians may be forced to the sidelines-the pressing issues they face once again going unnoticed and unaddressed.
Like how we prepare B.C. for the opportunities of tomorrow’s knowledge economy. How we build a strong, educated workforce to address the skills shortage and meet future labour market demands. How we’re going to sustain strong public services, fight climate change, and support strong, safe, and diverse communities.
Under my leadership, New Democrats are working with people from all walks of life to find solutions to these and other questions about our B.C.’s future. We’re committed to delivering on a vision for British Columbia based on four key priorities.
First, a strong, dynamic economy that supports traditional industries while diversifying our base.
That’s why I am working with small business, entrepreneurs, and industry to help build a prosperous and dynamic economy for every region in our province.
Second, investments in human capital to give British Columbians the opportunities and the skills they need.
That’s why I have been calling for smart investments in early learning, education, and apprenticeships. And why I’ve proposed changes to help make advanced education a reality for everyone with the will to succeed.
Third, a fundamental commitment to sustainability and environmental health, a commitment that must be reflected in our choices and our actions.
That’s why I’ve proposed a comprehensive retrofit program to fight climate change and create green jobs.
And it’s why I have made it clear that economic development cannot be at the expense of environmental protection or without meaningful inclusion of First Nations and communities.
And fourth, a strong, vibrant democracy characterized by open government and fair access to information.
That’s why I tabled a package of far-reaching of democratic reforms that opens up government, tightens up lobbyist registration rules, and fundamentally changes the way we finance political campaigns.
It’s time for a strong, compassionate, and pragmatic government in the province of British Columbia. New Democrats will deliver.
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