1991 Legislative Session: 5th Session, 34th Parliament
HANSARD
The following electronic version is for informational purposes only.
The printed version remains the official version.
(Hansard)
TUESDAY, MAY 7, 1991
Afternoon Sitting
[ Page 11931 ]
CONTENTS
Routine Proceedings
Speech from the Throne. Hon. Mr. Lam –– 11931
An Act to Ensure the Supremacy of Parliament (Bill 1). Hon. Mr. Fraser
Introduction and first reading –– 11936
Motions
Appointment of Select Standing Committees of the House.
Hon. Mrs. Johnston –– 11936
Ms. Cull
Mr. Sihota
Mr. Harcourt
Mr. Rose
Hon. Mr. Richmond
Appointment of Deputy Speaker and Deputy Chairman of the
Committee of the Whole. Hon. Mr. Richmond –– 11940
TUESDAY, MAY 7, 1991
The House met at 2:08 p.m.
This being the first day of the fifth session of the thirty-fourth Legislative Assembly of the province of British Columbia for the dispatch of business, pursuant to a proclamation of the Hon. David C. Lam, Lieutenant-Governor of the province, hon. members took their seats.
Prayers.
His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor, having entered the House and being seated upon the throne, was pleased to deliver the following gracious speech.
Speech from the Throne
HON. MR. LAM (Lieutenant-Governor): Mr. Speaker and Members of the Legislative Assembly, in opening this fifth session of the thirty-fourth parliament of British Columbia, I extend greetings on behalf of our Sovereign, Her Majesty the Queen.
I join all British Columbians in wishing Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II well, as she begins the fortieth year of her reign.
I pray that all members of this assembly will strive to keep the needs and well-being of all citizens of this province at the forefront in their thoughts and deliberations.
We mark the passing of the Hon. Jack Davis, PC, whose distinguished career included service in the House of Commons from 1962 to 1974 and in this Legislature as the member for North Vancouver–Seymour from 1975 until this year. He has served the people of Canada and British Columbia in many capacities: Minister of Fisheries and Minister of the Environment for Canada; Minister of Energy, Transport and Communications and Minister of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources for British Columbia. His enduring commitment and dedication to public service will long be remembered by friends, colleagues and those he served.
My government is pleased to announce that the new Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources building, to be built in Victoria, will be named in his honour.
Over the past year we have been saddened by the passing of two former Members of the Legislature: Mr. Hunter Vogel, who represented Delta and Langley from 1963 to 1972, and Mr. Donald Lewis, who represented Shuswap from 1972 to 1975.
[2:15]
My government has been visited by numerous distinguished guests over the past
year. We were pleased to receive the Queen's representative in Canada, Governor-General
Hnatyshyn, on his first official visit to British Columbia. Other distinguished
guests included President von Weizsacker of the Federal Republic of Germany,
President Koivisto of Finland and Her Royal Highness Princess Margriet of the
Netherlands. My government was also pleased to receive many diplomatic representatives
accredited to Canada.
It was my great pleasure to participate in the inaugural investiture of the Order of British Columbia, which took place in this chamber last June. Twenty-six outstanding British Columbians were recognized for their efforts and contributions toward the betterment of our province.
As we enter the last decade of this century, the greatest challenge we shall face will be to secure the future of Canada as a strong and unified nation. The task is formidable and will require all the strength, tolerance and skill at our disposal if we are to remain a vibrant country worthy of our place among the international community of nations. But it is a task to be met positively, welcoming the opportunity for the renewal of the spirit which has sustained us for more than a century.
The focus of the unity debate has been primarily on Quebec and its role in the Canada of the future. However, Canadians in all parts of the country are seeking revision of relationships in the federal system. My government is committed to the principle that reform must accommodate the legitimate aspirations of Canadians in all provinces and territories. The Canada of the future must enjoy the support of every region and province, and be tuned to embrace the diversity which is part of our strength, not our weakness. My first minister has already met with the Prime Minister to reinforce British Columbia's interest in and concern for the future of Canada.
The constitution of Canada does not belong to governments; it belongs to the Canadian people. To this end, the people of our province must have the opportunity to contribute to the development of constitutional change — not as British Columbians, but as Canadians who have the good fortune to live in British Columbia.
My government has initiated a series of papers and reports on Canadian federalism and governmental reform. British Columbians from a variety of walks of life — constitutional experts, business people, labour representatives and academics — have been invited to offer their perspective on Canada's future. These papers are to be distributed widely, with the intention of fostering thoughtful discussion on the future of our country and our province's place in the Canada of the future.
Our constitution of Canada represents the architecture of our system of government. As such, discussion leading to constitutional reform should transcend partisan political considerations.
My government's Cabinet Committee on Confederation will continue to review and consider all reports and recommendations and will develop a British Columbia approach to federal and constitutional reform that reflects, in a considered manner, input from many diverse sources. The report of the committee of cabinet will be released for general consideration and comment.
To encourage dialogue, my government will ask the Legislature to establish a committee of members to review these and other proposals, and provide an
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opportunity for the people of British Columbia to offer their advice and recommendations to the Legislature.
British Columbians and other Canadians have faced serious challenges before. However, we have a tradition of developing workable solutions, fashioned from open, constructive dialogue by dedicated people. The result has been a country whose accomplishments are respected throughout the world and whose values are deeply cherished by Canadians from British Columbia to Newfoundland. My government will spare no effort to find solutions that build on our accomplishments and reflect these values.
My government also recognizes that Canada's federal system for the twenty-first century must enable and encourage fiscally responsible, accountable and affordable government. People in all parts of the country have come to the realization that the growth of government debt at all levels in Canada has reached crisis proportions. Uncorrected, the burden of this growing debt inhibits the ability of government to deliver universal social programs to the national standards which have become a hallmark of our Canadian life. Changes to eliminate this problem are pressing and urgent, but solutions will require sacrifices.
The government of British Columbia has a longstanding commitment to the responsible management of provincial affairs. In this endeavour, my government will continue to manage provincial finances responsibly while protecting taxpayers, jobs and critical government services from the effects of recession and economic uncertainty.
British Columbia has achieved the best record of financial management of any government in Canada, federal or provincial. As of March 31, 1991, direct and indirect debt of the province was estimated at 21 percent of gross domestic product. This represents the lowest debt level in over 25 years, and British Columbia's expenditure to service this direct debt of the province is the lowest of any province in Canada.
Although there are worrisome exceptions, most governments in Canada have now recognized the need to reduce government debt to combat high interest rates, inflation and the consequent tax creep that has been hurting the economy of the entire country.
Improved economic performance will require a concerted commitment by all governments to prudent financial management. It will require efficient government operations, the making of difficult decisions when necessary, and holding firm to the critical program priorities that have made us unique in North America.
Governments across Canada are also recognizing the importance of achieving fair but responsible levels of public sector compensation. It is unfortunate that in British Columbia, public sector wage settlements have been consistently running ahead of private sector settlements for the past five years. This has created inequities with employees in the private sector, and it has strained government's limited revenue base.
My government has responded with the Compensation Fairness Act. This act will ensure wage settlements in all areas of the provincial public sector reflect the taxpayer's ability to pay, as well as achieving fairness in relation to private sector employees for whom compensation increases have been modest and job loss more prevalent. Under this act, collective bargaining is preserved subject to limits which reflect prevailing economic conditions.
The Job Protection Act was passed to help ease the impact of the recession on British Columbians employed in businesses experiencing temporary difficulty and faced with shutdown and loss of jobs. The act enables the job protection commissioner to work with stakeholders in a company where a business is fundamentally viable and the parties involved are prepared to make concessions to revitalize the enterprise and preserve jobs. Based on the principle of shared sacrifice, my government is prepared to make financial concessions as part of the job protection partnership.
My Minister of Finance and Corporate Relations will present to you a budget appropriate to the difficult economic climate we now face. It will be a responsible budget, and those who can afford to do so may be asked to contribute a little more so that vital and essential programs can be maintained and improved.
[2:30]
The Minister of Development, Trade and Tourism is currently reviewing government grants and loan programs with the objective of reducing government's direct role in financing businesses. Experience suggests that the most effective and time-proven way to encourage business and expand the economy is to provide a stable, attractive climate for investment and to ensure a vigorous, well-trained workforce.
My government will put forward proposals to other provinces and the federal government to restrict grants, loans and subsidies to industry A critical element of renewed federalism should be a code of conduct among governments in Canada to create, protect and enhance a common free market for goods, services, people and investment within Canada. We must apply to Canada those same rules by which we seek to regulate international commerce.
Government is committed to managing the province's forest resources in the interests of a healthy economy and a healthy environment for present and future generations. The Forest Resources Commission was established to advise on my government's approach to sustaining and enriching our forest base as we enter the twenty-first century.
My Minister of Forests has now received and released the report of the commissioner. The minister will initiate a process for public review and comment to guide further action on the report's recommendations.
My government has announced and is proceeding with a $1.4 billion program of forest renewal. This program includes a four-year, $200 million forest resources development agreement with Ottawa. Families and communities throughout the province will benefit from over 64,000 person-years of employment related to forest renewal over the next five years.
Recognizing the difficult times facing the forest industry, my government will continue to pursue vigorously with the government of Canada the elimination of the softwood trade agreement with the
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United States that is costing jobs here in British Columbia.
British Columbians treasure the majesty and pristine beauty that makes our province one of the most desirable areas of the world in which to live. Preserving this quality is essential.
My government is determined to ensure that environmental needs are balanced with the needs of the families and communities that depend on our forests. Through initiatives such as the old-growth strategy, the recreation program, the wilderness system plan and the Parks '90 plan, my government is securing employment and social values associated with our forest heritage. More than 11,000 British Columbians attended public meetings and made known their views, concerns and priorities for parks and wilderness areas for the 1990s.
A public review of commercial back-country recreation has also been initiated by the Ministry of Lands and Parks. This Ministry continues to provide leadership in the designation, exchange and acquisition of land for conservation purposes.
The recommendations flowing from the Forest Resources Commission, the Round Table on the Environment and the Economy and Parks Plan '90 will be brought together with input from other sources to create an overall strategy for British Columbia land use decisions.
My Ministry of Environment will be releasing, over the coming months, specific action plans in the areas of water management, fisheries, wildlife, pesticides and environmental enforcement.
It is increasingly recognized that environmental problems do not respect national or international boundaries. The destruction inflicted recently in the Persian Gulf is dramatic testimony to this fact, as is the cross-border problem of acid rain in central Canada. British Columbians, having experienced the consequences of an oil spill outside British Columbia waters, live in constant fear that a disaster on the scale of the Exxon Valdez spill in Alaska could occur in waters adjacent to our province.
My government recognizes that sound environmental management and protection must encompass more than one community, and often more than a particular river system. The waters of the southwestern corner of British Columbia and northwestern corner of Washington are an important case in point. These waters are fed by major river systems, and they are affected by effluents from literally dozens of communities in both Canada and the United States. They are also subject to catastrophic marine risks by maritime traffic which is international in origin.
To address these critical environmental issues, my government will take a leadership role in proposing and promoting an international initiative to attack water and air pollution problems in the entire coastal waterway embracing Puget Sound, the strait of Juan de Fuca, Georgia strait and waters tributary thereto, including the Fraser River. Discussions will be initiated with the federal government for the establishment of an international commission to include representation of both national governments, the province of British Columbia and the state of Washington. The requested mandate of the commission will include a thorough analysis of existing and potential pollution threats to air and water, leading to recommendations for a proactive environmental protection strategy for implementation by all four jurisdictions.
My government, through the Ministry of Municipal Affairs, Recreation and Culture, remains committed to working with local governments to address the urgent need to undertake major water and sewer projects to protect the environment and the quality of community water supplies.
British Columbia is a huge and diverse region, larger than California, Washington and Oregon combined, yet our population is only one-tenth of California alone. Transportation is therefore essential to bind us together as a province and allow us to realize our social and economic potential. The transportation planning process begun in 1988 will continue. A special two-year joint planning process is now underway with the Greater Vancouver Regional District. A comprehensive plan for the lower mainland area is critical to cope with growth and establish strategic priorities for that region.
My Minister of Transportation and Highways is also proceeding to draft legislation to provide a consistent framework, rules and processes to govern the construction and maintenance of resource roads in the province. In cooperation with private industry, my government will commence early construction of the Iskut road to access potentially valuable gold and mineral deposits in northwestern British Columbia. This road will meet acceptable environmental standards and be constructed with the assistance of native people in the area.
The B.C. Ferry Corporation continues to aggressively implement its capital expansion program. These projects are consistent with my government's desire to respond to the shipbuilding task force initiative which was set up after the federal government announced the cancellation of the Polar 8 contract. In addition, the corporation has undertaken the redevelopment of three terminals. Over the next three years, 3,330 person-years of employment will be created as a result of the Ferry Corporation's capital construction program.
As the 1990s progress and the twenty-first century dawns on the province of British Columbia, societal values, needs and structures will change. The roles and needs of women have changed, and will continue to change, whether they are in the home or employed.
[2:45]
My government will dedicate itself to help women achieve equality in the workplace, economic security and safety, both in the home and in the community. A comprehensive child care strategy to meet the needs of British Columbians will be developed and implemented as a priority. The government will work with business and community leaders to become partners in the provision of quality child care services for working parents throughout the province.
A major three-year expenditure commitment will also be targeted to improving subsidies to families,
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providing additional support to family day care providers in the community and expanding facilities in critical shortage areas.
The complexity of the licensing and regulatory process has been a barrier to providing an adequate supply of accessible, high-quality day care. Specific changes to streamline the process will, while ensuring the necessary protection for children in day care, be introduced.
In support of fairness in the workplace, the implementation of employment equity in the public service will remove barriers to employment opportunities for women, visible minorities, aboriginal peoples and persons with disabilities. My government has begun implementation of a four-year, $40 million pay equity program to reduce pay inequities associated with female-dominated job classes in government ministries.
Fostering the growth of entrepreneurship among women and removing barriers that inhibit business development among women will be a key priority for my government. The appointment of a businesswomen's advocate to further improve women's access to private sector financing opportunities was recently announced.
My Minister of Women's Programs and Government Services and Minister Responsible for Families will develop and participate in a process for broad public consultation on the British Columbia Retirement Savings Plan Act. The proposed B.C. retirement savings plan will ensure viable retirement-income options for all British Columbians. The plan will be of particular benefit to parents caring for children at home and to others not now part of a contributory pension plan.
The Pension Benefits Standards Act, designed to provide a framework for standardization of pension benefit plans in British Columbia, will be reintroduced.
My government will soon issue a proclamation outlining the responsibilities of government, communities and individuals to protect and support children. It will affirm the central role of the family and underscore the importance of the care of our children to the future well-being of the province.
In support of the proclamation, the Ministry of Social Services and Housing will undertake a comprehensive review of the Family and Child Service Act. My government will ensure that child-protection legislation reflects community values and meets the changing needs of families and children as the cornerstone of society. There will be thorough consultation with the public and appropriate professionals in developing new legislation.
My government will also expand direct services for victims of family violence and sexual assault, giving priority to initiatives aimed at breaking the cycle of abuse. The devastating effect of such antisocial conduct must be aggressively addressed at all levels of law enforcement and throughout the justice system.
Through grants to community agencies and additional funding within ministries, counselling will be provided for victims, including children who have witnessed violence. Treatment for abusers, who are themselves often victims of abuse earlier in life, will also be enhanced.
The Royal Commission on Health Care and Costs, established by my government last year, is examining the cost, quality and accessibility of health care and the health care system. The commission has completed the public consultation process, having met in 38 communities, received 1,800 written submissions and heard 900 oral presentations. It is expected to report later this year.
The recommendations of the royal commission will provide an important blueprint for ensuring that service quality is maintained and enhanced, and that universal medical care is both affordable and properly funded. As a nation, and particularly here in British Columbia, demographic changes and an aging population will severely test the durability of the health care system. We shall be ready to meet that test.
In the meantime my government will continue to improve the health care system through the building of partnerships with hospitals, community groups and health care providers.
An initiative such as the establishment of a surgical registry is an example of how my government is reaching out to help both physicians and patients to make well-informed decisions and patients to receive proper treatment in a timely manner.
Improved access to services is also being realized through such facilities as the mobile screening mammography unit. This unit will continue to bring important breast cancer diagnostic services to women in rural and remote areas of the province.
My Minister of Health will also be implementing a travel allowance system for those in remote areas who must travel to Vancouver for complex treatment. Universal access and affordability of health care must be protected.
As well, my government is reviewing the Mental Health Act with the goal of improving procedures and the protection of rights for people who need voluntary admission and treatment in hospital due to severe mental illness.
The law affecting the right of dependent adults will also undergo modernization. Laws found in the Patients Property Act, the Power of Attorney Act and the Public Trustee Act will be reviewed.
My government is combating catastrophic illness from infectious diseases through such measures as the new centre of excellence for HIV and other viral diseases. This program includes access to drugs such as AZT at no cost to the patient.
Expansion of social housing and increases to the supply of rental accommodation will continue. During the mandate of my government, 10,000 new units of social housing have been provided. Many new projects are being brought forward in response to the 1991 proposal call by the British Columbia Housing Management Commission.
The programs and services of the Ministry of Social Services and Housing are fundamental elements of British Columbia's social safety net. Provision for income assistance funds, to ensure those in need receive financial support and re-employment services
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in a sensitive and responsive manner, will be particularly important during the difficult economic period.
Education represents a basic element of my government's vision for British Columbia's future. It is the most important and essential investment in our province's future that government can make.
The Access for All initiative will see the first university degrees granted at Malaspina, Okanagan and Cariboo Colleges. The process for development of the University of Northern British Columbia has commenced, a site has been obtained and a president hired. The Fraser Valley is the fastest-growing region in our province. My Minister of Advanced Education, Training, and Technology will be considering the establishment of a full university-degree-granting institution in the valley.
While education reforms currently underway will be reviewed in cooperation with the province's school trustees and educators, it is my government's intention to proceed as scheduled with the implementation of the primary program, covering the first four years.
An enhanced school facilities upgrading and construction program will proceed. Increasing enrolments, the aging of school facilities and earthquake preparedness continue to be priorities in setting and allocating the funds available for school construction and upgrading. In 1989 the government committed to a $1.5 billion, six-year capital program; $600 million of this commitment has been expended in the past two years. My government will soon announce a further major component of the schools' capital program.
[3:00]
The Minister of Education has recently announced a revised framework for the setting of residential school taxes. The new system is simpler, more predictable and more fair than the previous system. This new approach, coupled with the substantially increased homeowner grant, will mean that many homeowners will either see no increase or will see a decrease in school property taxes on their residence this year.
My government will participate with local parent groups and school boards in the development of an affordable school lunch program to ensure that students are not disadvantaged in school as a result of improper lunchtime nutrition.
A new social era for Canada must include accommodation of native Canadians as an essential part of a strong Canadian community. The government of British Columbia will continue to build on its successes in negotiating a new relationship with British Columbia's aboriginal citizens.
My government has begun the honourable but difficult journey to rectify the long-standing and profound sense of grievance which native people in this province feel. We have signed the first land claims framework agreement in the province's history, with the Nisga'a Tribal Council, and have begun substantive negotiations under it. We are participating with the First Nations Summit and the government of Canada on a tripartite task force on native claims to determine how best to proceed with other pending aboriginal claims. We have undertaken and will continue significant expenditures and initiatives in culture, heritage, language, education and native social services.
My government is committed to finding a just, fair and workable way of resolving these issues. We are prepared to contribute our fair and proper share to the resolution of these historic grievances and will press Canada to do the same. My government believes the building of a new and better relationship between native and non-native British Columbians to be a noble and worthy goal. We will make this a priority for all agencies of government.
My government is gravely concerned about an apparent increase in crime and violence in the community. Containment and reversal of this trend will be a major priority in the months and years ahead. The major urban communities of our province have been victimized by the activity of criminal gangs. Last year my Attorney-General and Solicitor-General announced the formation of an interministerial task force. My government will escalate its efforts to investigate and vigorously prosecute individuals involved in criminal gangs and violent activity generally.
In addition, the Ministries of Education, Provincial Secretary and Minister Responsible for Multiculturalism and Immigration, and Social Services and Housing, as well as several federal and municipal departments, are developing strategies for dealing with this problem. My government will assume an active and leading role to ensure a concerted and effective battle against crime.
It is of vital importance that all holders of public office exercise their official duties and responsibilities in a manner that will bear the closest scrutiny. Public confidence and trust in the integrity, objectivity and impartiality of government is essential. My government will introduce a motion to confirm the appointment of Mr. E.N. Hughes, QC, as conflict-of-interest commissioner. In addition, the Members' Conflict of Interest Act will be referred to a committee of the Legislature for a full review of its adequacy and effectiveness.
Openness and accountability in the public sector is a commitment of my government. Access to government information and the legitimate protection of privacy have been under active review during this parliament. My government will introduce legislation on access to information and protection of privacy.
Fundamental to ensuring public confidence in the administration of justice is a process that is fair and impartial, and is seen to be fair and impartial, for making decisions relating to charges against persons of high public profile. Following the report and recommendations of commissioner Stephen Owen in his Discretion to Prosecute Inquiry, my Attorney-General implemented policy changes concerning such charges. Directives from the Attorney-General to the Deputy Attorney-General regarding policy on prosecutions must be in writing and published. Provision for the appointment of special prosecutors and notification of the public thereof was made. Responsibility for explaining and disclosing charging decisions has been built into the process.
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My government proposes to reflect these policy and procedural changes in legislation. At the same time, it will be important to ensure that Attorneys-General continue to be accountable to the Legislature, and are able to make public statements and respond to public inquiries about prosecution policies, criminal law developments, specific cases and the criminal justice system.
My government continues to believe that the people of British Columbia should, through referendums, have the opportunity directly to help our elected representatives establish government priorities. The referendum concept introduces fundamental changes to the traditional political process in this province. Such changes should be introduced carefully and prudently after much public debate and discussion.
My government will be introducing this session the questions to be referred to the people during the next election. These questions will deal with the issue of the referendum process itself, and engage the people of British Columbia directly in a discussion on these most important matters.
Relations among Canada's provinces have never been more critical for the country. British Columbia will have the honour of hosting the thirty-second annual Premiers' conference, to be held this summer in Whistler. The conference will provide an important opportunity for Premiers from across Canada to reinvigorate the search for solutions to the problems we face as a nation.
The people of the Cowichan and Comox Valleys are to be congratulated for the successful staging of the Duncan-North Cowichan 1991 British Columbia Winter Games. The dedication of the athletes was matched by the commitment of the many volunteers.
We look forward to the hosting of the British Columbia Summer Games in Coquitlam. The awarding of the 1995 Western Canada Games to Abbotsford is noted with pride.
My government is also proud to be involved in the hosting of the fifteenth Commonwealth Games, to be held in greater Victoria in 1994. Known as the friendly games, they will provide an opportunity and environment for athletes from throughout the Commonwealth to pursue and achieve national and international excellence, while reflecting the scope, cultural richness and diversity of the Commonwealth. The Games will showcase greater Victoria, the province and the hospitality of our people to a worldwide audience.
Mr. Speaker and members of the Legislative Assembly, I now leave you to discharge your duties, knowing that you will strive to build a strong British Columbia. In our Sovereign's name, I thank you.
[3:15]
[Mr. Speaker in the chair.]
MR. SPEAKER: Hon. members, in order to avoid mistakes I have obtained a copy of His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor's speech.
Introduction of Bills
AN ACT TO ENSURE THE
SUPREMACY OF PARLIAMENT
Hon. Mr. Fraser presented a message from His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor: a bill intituled An Act to Ensure the Supremacy of Parliament.
HON. MR. FRASER: I move the bill be introduced and read a first time now.
Mr. Speaker, this bill seems more of a formality today than we normally think, but in fact this bill reinforces 400 years of parliamentary tradition. First enacted in 1603 during the last reigning days of Elizabeth I, it has asserted independence from the Crown for purposes of legislation.
The role of the government changed in the middle of the sixteenth century when the House of Commons claimed certain rights and privileges such as freedom of speech. The Speaker claims these rights every year. The privileges cannot be overemphasized.
Mr. Speaker, I move the bill be placed on orders of the day for second reading at the next sitting of the House after today.
Bill 1 introduced, read a first time and ordered to be placed on orders of the day for second reading at the next sitting of the House after today.
HON. MR. VEITCH: Mr. Speaker, I move that the votes and proceedings of this House be printed, first being perused by Mr. Speaker, that he do appoint the printing thereof and that no person but such as he shall appoint do presume to print the same.
Motion approved.
HON. MRS. JOHNSTON: Mr. Speaker, I move that the Select Standing Committees of the House for the present session be appointed for the following purposes:
Standing order 68(l) is hereby amended to so reflect. The said committees shall severally be empowered to examine and inquire into all such matters and things as shall be referred to them by this House, and to report from time to time their observations and
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opinions thereon, with power to send for persons, papers and records. A special committee shall be appointed to prepare and report to this House, with all convenient speed, lists of members to compose the above select standing committee under standing order 68(l), the committee to be composed of Hon. C.H. Richmond, convener, Hon. W.B. Strachan, Hon. H. Dirks, Hon. J. Weisgerber, Messrs. Loenen, Long and Peterson, and Messrs. Gabelmann, Rose and Williams.
MS. CULL: Following the traditions of this House, I rise to speak on the Premier's motion to appoint select standing committees for the present session.
It was 13 months ago, also on throne speech day, that I first took my place in this assembly as the newly elected member for Oak Bay–Gordon Head. It was my first opportunity to take part in a ceremony representing hundreds of years of parliamentary tradition.
I'm reminded today, as I was 13 months ago, of the important responsibilities of our office: of our duty to provide fair, open and honest government, of our vow to maintain the public trust and to follow the highest standards of ethical conduct. I'm also reminded that when this motion to appoint committees was before us last year, the Leader of the Opposition stood and urged the government to protect these ethical standards.
The Leader of the Opposition introduced amendments similar to the motion before us today, and I want to describe it in his own words. He said:
"This amendment would establish a select standing committee of this House on privileges and ethics. The adoption of this amendment would allow the people of British Columbia through their elected Legislature to fully investigate and report on the ethics of members of this Legislature in matters of public trust."
Our leader's motion of 13 months ago was not unlike the motion before us today in which the government proposes to appoint a conflict-of-interest committee. However, the Leader of the Opposition proposed at that time an amendment that would have been much broader. It was aimed not just at conflicts of interest but at all matters regarding members of this House, ethical conduct and the public trust.
It's interesting to recall, Mr. Speaker, how this government — now in the last year of its mandate and proposing a similar committee — responded to the motion 13 months ago. In what light did it cast its sad legacy of a dozen ministers resigning under conflict of interest or other controversy?
The former Premier, the first member for Richmond, said: "I suspect this is strictly for political purposes. I suspect it's strictly politics." He also said: "I would suggest all members see the shame in this and vote down this ridiculous motion."
Mr. Speaker, was the Premier alone? Was he the only one on the other side of the House who was critical of this proposal, this same idea before us today? Of course he wasn't. The government House Leader, the first member for Kamloops, had this to say:
"I would point out to all members of this House that the ten committees which have been named by the Premier are very adequate....
"I think every one of us should be proud of the actions of a Premier who acted with dispatch and very swiftly when there was just a suggestion that something was wrong. The Premier acted immediately. I think the actions of the Premier speak for themselves.
"The moral and ethical values are very high on this side of the House. I'm speaking against this amendment, as I think it is specious and absolutely unnecessary."
The rest of the government caucus apparently agreed with their Premier and House Leader. They agreed that a committee to look at conflicts and the broader matter of ethical conduct was ridiculous, specious, shameful and absolutely unnecessary. We know that they agreed with the Premier, as they did all along until they decided he could no longer win an election for them. They gave the former Premier their wholehearted support — they voted with him.
If I may quote from Hansard for one moment, page 8855 of Hansard records the vote — taken on division — on the motion to amend put by the Leader of the Opposition. When we look at the list of names under "Nays," we see some very familiar names. Let me read: "Vander Zalm, Johnston, Smith...."
MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. You may read from the book, but you must remember to refer to the constituency from which the member has been elected rather than the name of the member.
MS. CULL: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I'm simply quoting from Hansard, but I don't need to go on with any more names. We know what names were there, and there were many, many more. These same people are telling us today that they have changed. In the fifth year of their term they are going to create a committee on conflict of interest. They want us to forget that just thirteen months ago they ridiculed the idea and then, to a one, voted against it.
Mr. Speaker, even when this government thinks they've got it right, they've still got it wrong. They think that conflict of interest is their only sin, the only thing the public needs protection from, but they are wrong. The scope of the committee proposed today is far too narrow. The people of British Columbia need protection from those who would lie, condone a lie, cover up the actions of their colleagues, and interfere in our justice system. This committee just isn't good enough.
I spoke earlier of 13 months ago, when I first took my place in this assembly. It's with regret that I have to say that nothing has changed. There is a new Social Credit politician in the Premier's chair, but nothing has changed. But that does not stop this government from pretending, from appointing a committee that it ridiculed yesterday, because this is a government that will say anything and do anything to stay in power.
Every government member — not just the former Premier — must be held accountable for their failure to maintain basic standards of morality and ethics in government. Scandal after scandal, conflict after conflict, the Social Credit cabinet and caucus rallied behind the former Premier. Those who stayed on either saw no problem.... Their sense of duty was so dulled that they sat silent until the very end, until they realized that their leader couldn't get them re-elected.
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Mr. Speaker, I'm going to conclude my remarks with the words of a former member of the governing party, Rafe Mair, who on March 28 took to the airwaves to reflect on the current state of this government. Mr. Mair said:
"The Social Credit Party, which I was once a proud member of and spear-carrier for, has, in the words of Watergate, lost its moral compass. Instead of cleansing its soul, it's looking for loopholes."
He went on to say:
"There are minimum moral standards which the public is entitled to and will expect to be met. From the very beginning, these moral standards have been violated day after day, minister after minister, conflict of interest after conflict of interest, until now the Social Credit Party comes to its moment of reckoning."
At this moment this Social Credit government is promising the citizens of British Columbia a committee — a very narrow process that only 13 months ago they ridiculed and voted against. Mr. Speaker, it's time for a change.
Interjections.
MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. I would ask the member for Oak Bay–Gordon Head to rise and actually move the amendment, if the member wishes to speak. Is there an amendment coming?
The member for Esquimalt–Port Renfrew.
Interjections.
MR. SIHOTA: Mr. Speaker, here they are, heckling again.
Mr. Speaker, I think that it is appropriate, in light of the fact that I raised this matter in the Legislature last year, to take a few minutes of time today to talk about this committee. To the extent it's being proposed, it is welcome.
As I listen to the members opposite, I think the House should be reminded that never in the history of the Commonwealth has there ever been a government that has had its first minister, the Premier, resign in disgrace over conflict of interest. Never in the history of the Commonwealth have we had a government that has had its chief law enforcement officer, the Attorney General, resign in disgrace. Never have we had the chief financial officer, the Minister of Finance, resign for alleged breaches of the law — and twice in his case, Mr. Speaker. Never has there been a government that has had a Provincial Secretary resign for diverting lottery funds to his friends and insiders. On top of that record, a Minister of Highways resigned for breach of conflict-of-interest regulations. And here they sit in the House today.
Most of them are now sitting over there in that legislative corner as members of the Social Credit hall of shame. Out of 20 ministers in this government, 11 or 12 have resigned and have demonstrated that this is a government that has favoured friends and insiders, a government that can't distinguish between right and wrong, a government that blindly supports loyalty and friendship over ethics and dignity.
The indiscretions of this government, nonetheless, are not confined to matters of conflict of interest. They deal with ethical discretions on the part of a number of Social Credit politicians. Let us not forget that over the past year and a half we have been witness to a number of ethical indiscretions by various Social Credit politicians. For example, the activities of the Minister of Women's Programs when she was a director of B.C. Hydro and used her position as a B.C. Hydro director and MLA to get B.C. Hydro to break the credit rules for her son. The case of the then Minister of Agriculture who allowed golf courses and ancillary facilities to be built on farmland, greatly increasing the value of his family's property which was up for sale. And one other example would suffice: the current Minister of Transportation and Highways, who was privy to a lie and a cover-up dealing with the Knight Street Pub and tampering with the granting of a licence to Mr. Toigo.
[3:30]
The acting interim Premier, in introducing this amendment, would have us believe that things have changed. But her handling of the latest scandal today has demonstrated that she has the same ethical and legal blind spot as her predecessor. She, like her predecessor, first denied that there was a wrong, and said that she was satisfied that the former Minister of Finance had done nothing wrong. Then she tried to divert the issue, and finally she tried to blame the media, just as her predecessor had done.
Mr. Speaker, introducing a committee is not enough. If there was a sincere desire on the part of this administration to deal with matters of conflict of interest, then it ought to have simply opened up the books and taken a look at the private member's bill that was introduced by this side of the House, because — if the members opposite can just cease heckling for a moment; we're just about finished — we have introduced a law that says very simply that if cabinet ministers get their hands caught in the conflict-of-interest cookie jar, they lose their seat, their pay and their pension.
Rather than a committee, what British Columbia needs is a law like this one that says that you lose your seat, your pay and your pension.
Interjections.
MR. SPEAKER: Hon. members, it's opening day. Please, could we just dispense with this business with a little less acrimony.
MR. SIHOTA: The acrimony stems from the fact that the members opposite have consistently shown an ethical blind spot and that the Social Credit government is known for its inability to distinguish between right and wrong: the continual cover-ups, the continual deals for friends, the continual abuse of the public trust.
Mr. Speaker, Social Credit has forgotten who they work for. They think that they work for themselves. This is a government that has grown arrogant and stale. It needs time in opposition to sort itself out. It's time for a change.
[ Page 11939 ]
MR. HARCOURT: Mr. Speaker, I rise to move an amendment to the motion to add the words "ethical conduct and" before the words "conflict of interest." This amendment would broaden the proposed standing committee to deal with the ethical conduct of members of this government and of this assembly and not simply with conflict of interest.
While we need this standing committee, it's not good enough just to establish the committee. It's not just the conflict per se that we and the people of British Columbia are concerned about, but the ethical misconduct that has plagued this government.
Eight Social Credit cabinet ministers have been forced to resign under investigation. Of the eight, only three were conflict of interest. The other five were matters of ethical misconduct. The Finance minister resigned today for his role in events surrounding the sale of Fantasy Gardens. The intentions of this government's motion mean that his misconduct can't be investigated by the committee. And there are other ministers whose ethical misconduct will never be investigated if the government has its way on this motion.
We've heard today, for example, that there's never been an investigation of the Minister of Government Management Services, who used her position as a B.C. Hydro director to get Hydro to break the credit rules for her son.
There's never been an investigation of the current Minister of Transportation and Highways for his role in the political cover-up of the Knight Street Pub scandal.
There's never been an investigation of the Minister of Native Affairs for his role in allowing golf courses and ancillary facilities to be built on farmland and thus potentially increase the value of his family's property, which was put up for sale.
What we have here is a government that wants to give the appearance of embracing integrity and ethics in government but places barriers in the way of any public scrutiny of their behaviour. And it's only because of shame, embarrassment or political necessity that this government has been forced even to bring forward this motion for a conflict-of-interest committee.
You heard how they responded last year, Mr Speaker. That's why this motion is before us today — because of shame, embarrassment and political necessity. This government still sees ethical behaviour as a political problem rather than as our obligation as representatives of the people to uphold the public trust.
But we shouldn't be surprised, for this is the government that was forced by the weight of embarrassment to finally introduce conflict-of-interest legislation. They thought they got that right, but they got that wrong too. The fact is that the legislation is so poor, it would have failed to have caught the former Premier — and despite the fact that the former Premier has clearly mixed his public responsibility with his personal business and in doing so has brought disgrace and dishonour to the office of Premier.
Mr. Speaker, by adopting this amendment, by establishing a standing committee on ethical conduct and conflict of interest, this government has an opportunity to help us move towards more open and honest government. But should they fail to support this amendment, they show British Columbians that nothing has changed, that they still don't know right from wrong and that they're not prepared to adopt the standards of ethical behaviour consistent with the trust that the people of B.C. place in their government and this assembly.
Mr. Speaker, I have placed the motion before you. The amendment is before this Legislature. It's up to the government to decide.
MR. SPEAKER: just before recognizing the Premier, I should advise the members and our guests that the amendment is as follows: that the motion be amended to insert the words "ethical conduct and" before "conflict of interest."
HON. MRS. JOHNSTON: In my view, the preamble put forward by the three members of the opposition would be more appropriately spoken at an all-candidates' meeting. But I can tell you, Mr. Speaker, that those of us on the government side have absolutely nothing to hide, and I'm very pleased to allow the amendment to stand.
MR. ROSE: Mr. Speaker, I'm pleased to hear about the cooperation of the government benches on this matter. What a change a year makes. I'd like to call a division anyway, just to prove it.
MR. SPEAKER: It may be interesting of the member to want to call a division. However, we haven't reached that point in the process when you can call a division. But when that time comes, you may wish to do so.
Are members ready for the question on the amendment. All those in favour say aye. Opposed, if any.
MR. ROSE: Division.
MR. SPEAKER: A division has been called.
MR. ROSE: I want to see them stand up.
MR. SPEAKER: With leave, could the Chair request that our guests be allowed to stay in the chamber.
Leave granted.
MR. SPEAKER: Thank you. A division has been called. Is it agreed that the time-limit be removed?
SOME HON. MEMBERS: Agreed.
Amendment approved unanimously on a division.
HON. MR. RICHMOND: I would just like to say a very few words on the motion put forward by the Premier. I find the motion very acceptable and far-reaching. The committees have been expanded not
[ Page 11940 ]
only in scope but in number, and as you have heard, the Premier and this side of the House have accepted the amendment by the opposition. So I feel that with these committees in place, we are more than adequately equipped to deal with any situation that should arise.
I just want to conclude my remarks, though, by saying that I welcome open debate on this and any other topic in this House; but I find a lecture by the member for Esquimalt–Port Renfrew on morals and ethics offensive in the extreme.
MR. SPEAKER: Hon. members, this returns us to the original motion, for members who are familiar with the original motion.
[3:45]
Motion as amended approved.
HON. MR. RICHMOND: Just before I make the next motion, Mr. Speaker, a word of explanation about the empty chair to my right with the flag of British Columbia on it. This Legislature, as mentioned in the throne speech, lost one of our esteemed colleagues in the last little while. As also outlined in the throne speech, the Hon. Jack Davis had an exemplary career in federal as well as provincial politics.
His passing creates a void in this Legislature. His speeches usually became the definitive word on any given subject. Many of us, certainly on this side of the House, and perhaps even on the other side of the House, sought his counsel on more than one occasion. He had a very effective technique for debating with the opposition which usually destroyed them totally: he knew what he was talking about.
He was also from Kamloops, and he will be missed by all British Columbians.
MR. ROSE: Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the official opposition I would like to pay tribute as well and join the hon. House Leader from Kamloops in paying tribute to our departed colleague, the late Jack Davis.
I served with Jack Davis in the federal House from 1968 to 1974, when he was Minister of Fisheries and later, I believe, Canada's first Minister of the Environment. Of course, we all knew of Jack Davis earlier because he used to write well-researched articles on such matters as the two-river policies and other matters concerning energy. I don't think anybody who knew Jack Davis had anything but respect for a fine mind. In addition, he was a tremendously hard worker. In public service, if anybody has any concern about whether or not they got their money's worth out of an elected official, they certainly got it out of Jack Davis.
Mr. Speaker, Jack Davis was not a gregarious man. I hate to say this, but he wasn't one of the boys. You didn't see him hanging around and wondering what to do next with himself — visiting "vespers" and that sort of thing. He was the kind of person who went to his office and also worked very hard.
I recall that he had a favourite seat on the Air Canada plane between Vancouver and Ottawa, and for a period of six years I rode there with him. Sometimes there were rows of three and rows of six, but he had one where there was a row of only one, so nobody could sit beside him, because he wanted to work. He worked tremendously on behalf of Canada, and he worked tremendously and capably on behalf of British Columbia.
I'm sure my colleague from Vancouver East, who was once Energy critic, paid him the ultimate tribute by saying: "Jack Davis tells the truth." He was never evasive about questions in estimates. Regardless of the potential political fallout, Jack always gave you a straight and honest answer, and for that we all respected him.
I respected him for one other thing. Although we differed politically on a number of things, we agreed 100 percent on the irrelevance of the current Canadian Senate.
MR. SPEAKER: Hon. members, on your behalf and in your absence, I sent the appropriate floral arrangement to the family at the appropriate time. But if it is the wish of the House, we will send an official message from all of you through the office of the Chair. Is that agreed?
HON. MEMBERS: Agreed.
HON. MR. RICHMOND: It is my pleasure to move, seconded by the opposition House Leader, that F.C. Austin Pelton, Esquire, first member for Dewdney electoral district, be appointed Deputy Speaker for this session of the Legislative Assembly; and that Angus C. Ree, Esquire, member for North Vancouver–Capilano electoral district, be appointed Deputy Chairman of the Committee of the Whole for this session of the Legislative Assembly.
Motion approved.
MS. A. HAGEN: Mr. Speaker, I rise at this time to confirm that you have received notice on my behalf that I wish to present a motion of privilege in respect to the first member for Richmond (Mr. Vander Zalm), and I will be guided by you as to the earliest time to proceed with that matter.
MR. SPEAKER: For any members who wish to bring forward matters of privilege, tomorrow would be considered the earliest opportunity. You may give me notice now, but tomorrow will be acceptable if that's the case.
MS. SMALLWOOD: I also rise to confirm notice given to you on my behalf that I have a matter of privilege to raise in relation to the hon. Minister of Environment (Hon. Mr. Mercier) and look for your guidance as to the earliest possible opportunity.
[ Page 11941 ]
MR. SPEAKER: Tomorrow will be the earliest opportunity.
Are there any reports from government ministers?
Prior to the motion of adjournment, I would advise the members and their guests that the Speaker's office has arranged for a reception to be held immediately following the adjournment, in the usual quarters.
HON. MR. RICHMOND: Just before moving adjournment, I would remind the members that the House will sit tomorrow at 2 p.m.
Having said that, Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank all of our guests for joining us and wish everyone a pleasant good evening.
Hon. Mr. Richmond moved adjournment of the House.
Motion approved.
The House adjourned at 3:51 p.m.