Published: February 02, 2009 6:00 PM
On Feb. 10, I will be returning to Victoria for the last Legislative session before the election on May 12, 2009. As I prepare for the next session I have been reflecting on the last four years and the many conversations I have had with you on the issues that you care about.
Politics is all about promises; which promises are kept and which promises are broken. When politicians break their promises, real people suffer the consequences, and many of the stories you have told me arose from those broken promises.
Premier Campbell promised to improve health care for all British Columbians, but instead he closed hospitals, cut acute and extended beds, reduced home support and, as a result, forced some seniors to move away from their families and their homes.
Premier Campbell promised to improve education for British Columbian kids, but instead schools have closed, special education support has been reduced and class sizes have grown.
Premier Campbell promised to support forestry in British Columbia, but instead we have seen an unprecedented collapse of this vital industry under his watch.
Premier Campbell promised to strengthen local government, but instead he removed our right to have a say on whether or not our rivers should be diverted to build private power projects.
Premier Campbell does not have a very a good record on the issues that matter to people in this area.
In 2005, when you elected me to be your Member of the Legislative Assembly, I promised that I would be a strong voice for you in Victoria, that I would listen to the issues that mattered to you and that I would fight for your best interests.
As I continue to travel throughout this area, and on my return to the Legislature, I will continue to keep the promise that I made to you.