Wednesday, May 31, 2017

Victoria Viewpoints: Wednesday, May 31, 2017




Our compilation of some of the stories of note from the day, reviewing the political developments from the Provincial scene:





Feds to back softwood industry with $860-million aid package
Inside the negotiations to determine B.C.'s next government
B.C. left-of-centre alliance expected to usher in green economic vision
Trudeau Liberals, B.C. set to face off over Pacific NorthWest LNG
Lower mainland mayors await transit talks with NDP-Greens
Notley says B.C. must allow Alberta access to the coast
A historic moment for B.C. politics - and our environment
The road ahead for B.C. politics
NDP leader John Horgan confident none of his MLAs will join Liberals
"It's deeply troubling': critics decry federal cuts to salmon education programs in B.C.
Locations announced for 4 new lifeboat stations on the B.C. coast
B.C. has no exclusive claim on its coast, Alberta premier warns pipeline foes
Ottawa to announce nearly $1B in aid for softwood lumber industry
Alliance has two party heads, but one NDP brain
Setting B.C. on course to $15 per hour minimum wage on NDP/Green government agenda
A glimpse behind the scenes of B.C.'s power-sharing talks
Province on pace for more than 1,400 overdose deaths in 2017
B.C.'s next political quagmire is electing a Speaker of the Legislature
Business leaders express concern about promises in B.C. NDP-Green agreement
It's B.C. vs Alberta and Ottawa in a pipeline battle royale
Weaver, Horgan inform lieutenant governor about their deal
Oceans protection plan includes boost to fisheries department, coast guard
Tag-team brawl coming over pipeline
Big changes are on the way
Culture clash key to B.C. minority talks
Dear Premier Clark, Don't give up (but try not to look like you are clinging to power)
B.C. is a on the precipice of a marvellous drama, with high odds of everything blowing up soon
BC NDP and Greens to push legal challenge of Trans Mountain pipeline
John Horgan, Andrew Weaver visit B.C.'s government house
BC NDP and Greens to push legal challenge of Trans Mountain pipeline
A brave new world of policy in British Columbia
Ottawa and Alberta warned to tone down pipeline rhetoric
Forget any economic windfall from Kinder Morgan, Analyst says
B.C. Liberals are doomed if they don't do an about-face on climate change

Ottawa Observations: Wednesday, May 31, 2017



Our compilation of some of the stories of note from the day, reviewing the political developments from the Federal scene for Wednesday, May 31, 2017



Feds to back softwood industry with $860-million aid package
Inside the negotiations to determine B.C.'s next government
Scores killed, Canadian embassy damaged in Kabul bombing
Indigenous leaders call for oversight of Thunder Bay police
Liberals' fundraising bill fails to quell cash-for-access charges
Tory amendment would quash effort to make O Canada gender-neutral senator warns
From Paris to pariah: Trump to exit climate deal
What oil shock? Suddenly, Canada leads G7 in economic growth
Russian dissident calls on West to take stand against Putin
Two members of Joly's staff worked with official languages pick Meilleur
Defence Minister scolds Boeing for trade complaint against Bombardier
Documents suggest taxpayers poised for bigger risk in infrastructure bank
IMF warns of 'significant' risks from Canada's housing market
B.C. left-of-centre alliance expected to usher in green economic vision
Trudeau Liberals, B.C. set to face off over Pacific NorthWest LNG
B.C. has no exclusive claim on its coast, Alberta premier warns pipeline foes
Quebec plans to reopen constitutional debate, launch coast-to-coast discussion
Ottawa to announce nearly $1B in aid for softwood lumber industry
Airbus took a chance that paid off with its high bid for search and rescue planes
Bilingualism watchdog nominee never discussed post with Trudeau's top advisers: Joly
Conservatives trying to 'kill the bill' that would make O Canada gender neutral, senator says
Harjit Sajjan blasts Boeing over trade spat with Bombardier in defence industry speech
Government developing new firearms marking scheme
As U.S. weighs withdrawal, Canada still committed to Paris Accord, McKenna says
Shared Services Canada spread 'too thin,' consultations hear
Tory senator wants to close 'troubling' election loophole on foreign funds
Liberals to introduce legislation banning private cash-for-access fundraisers
How Stephen McNeil's Liberals won a slim majority government
Canada is 'blameless' for trade surplus, Trump trade official says, contradicting Trump
More troops won't solve Afghan mess
Trumped on climate change
Time to reassess Canada's green agenda
Trudeau's open border policy has a price
Dear Premier Clark, Don't give up (but try not to look like you are clinging to power)
B.C. is a on the precipice of a marvellous drama, with high odds of everything blowing up soon
Bernier didn't lose the leadership vote; it was stolen by infiltrators from the farmers' union
Defence Minister says Boeing's complaint about Bombardier means it's no longer a 'trusted partner'
Thirty years after birth of the Reform Party, its legacy lives in Conservative leadership results
Senate amendment to O Canada bill could force House to vote unanimously on new sponsor
BC NDP and Greens to push legal challenge of Trans Mountain pipeline
How a Senate amendment could wind up killing gender-neutral 'O Canada' bill
Paris climate agreement is 'better off' without the U.S., say experts
Donald Trump's Paris pull-out would put Justin Trudeau, Canadian businesses on alert, critics warn
John Horgan, Andrew Weaver visit B.C.'s government house
BC NDP and Greens to push legal challenge of Trans Mountain pipeline
Just under 50 people could face fines, charges over census refusal
Looking ahead to the 2019 election: How Scheer and Trudeau stack up on key trends
A brave new world of policy in British Columbia
An insider's view of the final week of Andrew Scheer's campaign
Ottawa and Alberta warned to tone down pipeline rhetoric
Forget any economic windfall from Kinder Morgan, Analyst says
How Putin has already won a stealth war
B.C. Liberals are doomed if they don't do an about-face on climate change



CityWest announces 10 million dollar investment in firbre infrastructure set for Prince Rupert

With a number of CityWest employees
standing in the background
CEO Chris Marrett outlined a
10 million dollar investment in
Prince Rupert on Tuesday
The future is fibre and for CityWest the future also involves a complete rebuild of the backbone of its communication services in its home base of Prince Rupert.

A major announcement by the City of Prince Rupert owned company was held in the CityWest offices on Tuesday, as CEO Chris Marrett outlined the ambitious 10 million dollar project that will put Prince Rupert's communication system in a strong position to face the demand that will come in the future.

Standing in front of a collection of CityWest employees, Mr. Marrett provided some of the key elements of the project which is expected to start later this year and will build on the existing network that now extends from Prince Rupert to Vancouver and on to Seattle.

"CityWest started in Prince Rupert, and with this investment, we're showing that we're committed to being a part of Prince Rupert's future ... Those builds have been successful because of our amazing employees, they've got the experience to undertake the build in Prince Rupert, and they know the most important thing for us is to exceed our customers' expectations. They'll be able to carry over the lessons learned in our prior builds to improve the experience for Rupertites"

The prior builds that the CityWest CEO was referring to were part of the CityWest expansion plan to the east, and that investment in communities such as Houston, Smithers, Terrace was hailed as projects which made yesterday's multi-million dollar Prince Rupert expansion possible.

When it comes to the Prince Rupert fibre to home project it was left to CityWest Vice President Bart Kuntz , the Outside Plant manager who will oversee the project to outline how the project will evolve once it launches in the months to come.

"When you're doing a fibre over-build, you start from the outside of town and word towards the centre ... within a few years we'll have finished the build, which will improve our  customer's experience with us."

As part of Tuesday's announcement CityWest noted that it would be working from the eastern and western edges of the city and progressing towards the centre and downtown core. With the new system looking to provide the new service to its customers by the start of 2018.

In the final moments of the event, Mr. Marrett received a few questions from the audience,  and from them he explained that while residents won't see many changes in CityWest service levels over the short term, noting that as the project moves forward towards completion the system will be ready to deliver more services in the future, including faster internet speeds and services that come through the Internet.

"We're making the investment now, so we can prepare for the demand that will come in the future. In order for our customers to continue getting a great experience from us, we need to invest in fibre-to-home." -- CityWest CEO Chris Marrett on building for the future in Prince Rupert

You can review the full announcement ceremony from the CityWest Facebook page

Fibre 101 (All you need to know about Fibre to Home)

What is fibre?

Short for fibre-optic cable, it’s thin flexible fibers of glass that transmit light signals, used for transmitting data. Fibre carries more data at higher speeds over long distances than any other technology.

What is fibre-to-the-home (FTTH)?

FTTH is the final step of bringing fiber-optic technology closer to our customers. We currently have fibre in our network, but the “last mile” is used by other technologies. When completed, our FTTH network will connect directly to all residents and businesses in Prince Rupert.

What can fibre do?

Fiber carries more data at higher speeds over long distances than other services. Fiber is capable of delivering all three services through one connection, through wireline or wireless methods.

Where else is FTTH available?

In Canada it was first deployed into major cities and is now heading into more rural areas. In Northern B.C., CityWest has FTTH services available to our Bulkley Valley customers, and in certain areas of Terrace & Kitimat.

What’s the difference between fibre and other technologies?

Fibre is a new, leading-edge technology that can carry much higher bandwidths and are capable of transmitting data at higher speeds than other technologies

The CityWest CEO also took advantage of the gathering on Tuesday to celebrate the achievements of two students from Charles Hays Secondary School, noting that Chelsea Mitchell and Christian Nguyen had been awarded scholarships for further study through the company's scholarship program.

For more items related to CityWest as well as Communications on the North Coast see our archive page here.

Cross posted from the North Coast Review

Tuesday, May 30, 2017

Victoria Viewpoints: Tuesday, May 30, 2017




Our compilation of some of the stories of note from the day, reviewing the political developments from the Provincial scene:


Trudeau defends Trans Mountain as BC Greens, NDP gear up for fight
What will people think of B.C's political makeover?
Electoral reform, political donations part of deal between BC NDP, Greens
Minority government could be the tonic B.C. needs
BC Greens agree to support NDP: A look at what happens next
NDP-Green accord touted as a way to give B.C. certainty provides Trudeau anything but
Trudeau stands by decision on Trans Mountain pipeline despite B.C. result
Beginning of the end: a chastened Clark acknowledges her premiership is likely coming to a close
Balmoral Hotel residents fear being turfed if building is condemned
NDP-Green alliance to focus on electoral reform, stopping Kinder Morgan and banning big money
Delta Mayor 'concerned' bridge to replace George Massey tunnel won't move forward
Kinder Morgan Canada shares fall in debut amid political uncertainty in B.C.
Horgan, Weaver hope to tread historic path in minority government
Christy Clark to stay on as B.C. premier -for now
NDP , Greens take aim at Kinder Morgan, Site C in power sharing deal
Tolls on Port Mann and Golden Ears bridges to fall under NDP/Green agreement
Christy Clark vows to fight on even as ability to govern slips away
Alberta's Notley warns B.C's NDP, Greens not to 'stand in the way' of Trans Mountain pipeline
B.C.'s NDP-Green alliance troubling for Canadian economy, energy projects
Pipeline politics key to Weaver weaving historic deal
Green, NDP priorities to test new 'expression of hope'
Christy Clark isn't the type to just roll over and quit
Clark to recall legislature, expects Liberal defeat
Greens and NDP didn't have to move much to find a deal
Text of deal between B.C. Green Party and B.C. NDP
'Mark my words:' Alberta's Notley says pipeline coming no matter B.C. politics
Inside the NDP-Green governing agreement
Christy Clark to stay on as B.C. Premier
B.C. NDP and Greens agree to fight pipeline, hold referendum and hike carbon tax
Christy Clark not resigning as premier - yet - will seek confidence of the B.C. legislature
CSIS report on Trans Mountain describes 'violent confrontations' over resource development
British Columbia's unstable politics shows why first past the post is the preferable electoral system
To solve Canada's social housing problem, we should look to Britain's privatization schemes
'The elegant thing for her to do is resign': Will B.C. Premier concede defeat?
B.C. NDP and Greens agree to fight pipeline, hold referendum and hike carbon tax
Christy Clark not ready to walk away, will recall house
Highlights of the NDP and Green party deal in B.C.
B.C. election results put federally-approved Trans Mountain pipeline in jeopardy
The ball is in Christy Clark's court
Alberta lawmakers react after B.C. Greens, New Democrats strike deal
Big changes in store for B.C. under NDP and Greens
On pipeline, Horgan and Weaver can do little but posture
B.C, NDP and Greens seal power sharing deal with confidence agreement
Liberal MP'S in B.C. could be among biggest losers in Green-NDP alliance
City of Vancouver issues statement about Balmoral Hotel in Downtown Eastside
NDP and Greens promise electoral reform referendum, Big Money Ban and Higher Carbon Tax
Christy Clark to Recall Legislature, Expects to Be Defeated
B.C.'s Tense Election Showdown Reaches Its Rightful Conclusion
Clark acknowledges her government likely to fall 


Ottawa Observations: Tuesday, May 30, 2017



Our compilation of some of the stories of note from the day, reviewing the political developments from the Federal scene for Tuesday, May 30, 2017




Trudeau defends Trans Mountain as BC Greens, NDP gear up for fight
Trudeau warns world leaders can't 'turn back the clock on progress'
Liberals to introduce bill reforming cash-for-access fundraisers
Efforts to cool housing market sparked drop in CMHC insurance
What will people think of B.C's political makeover?
Why Kathleen Wynne has become a great NDP premier
Electoral reform, political donations part of deal between BC NDP, Greens
Daughter of Canadians detained in China 'hopeful' for meeting with PM
Jonathan Vance praises soldier who lodged sex-assault complaint
Quebec government defends law that forces striking construction workers back to work
Minority government could be the tonic B.C. needs
BC Greens agree to support NDP: A look at what happens next
Trudeau addresses Merkel-Trump rift, says Canada committed to Europe and US
Trump's use of private cellphone raises security concerns
NDP-Green accord touted as a way to give B.C. certainty provides Trudeau anything but
Military inquiry finds failure of 'basic leadership' in handling of sex assault allegation
Former juror suffering from PTSD calls for national support standard
Trudeau stands by decision on Trans Mountain pipeline despite B.C. result
Federal government spends $4M to fight Lyme disease
Christy Clark to stay on as B.C. premier -for now
Critics accuse Andrew Scheer of hiding policies after campaign win
Losing search plane bidder not aware of federal 'budget flexibility'
Canada, Italy embrace EU trade deal as response to U.S. isolationism
Woman 57, dies of hypothermia while trying to cross border into Canada from Minnesota
Kinder Morgan Canada says pipeline expansion will proceed in B.C.
Why won't Kevin O'Leary go away, ever?
Scheer victory solidifies the West as Conservatives' home base
NAFTA talks will start in August. Here's what the plan looks like
Canada's foreign election financing is finally getting addressed
It's like Alberta is determined to be worse than Ontario
Little noticed 'escalator tax' on beer could help put federal Liberals' budget on ice
B.C. NDP and Greens agree to fight pipeline, hold referendum and hike carbon tax
The Pope is a lucky man. Not everyone gets a chance to be lectured on morality by Trudeau
Christy Clark not resigning as premier - yet - will seek confidence of the B.C. legislature
Could Justin Trudeau be key to bridging the toxic relationship between Trump and Europe?
CSIS report on Trans Mountain describes 'violent confrontations' over resource development
British Columbia's unstable politics shows why first past the post is the preferable electoral system
To solve Canada's social housing problem, we should look to Britain's privatization schemes
Federal Liberals set to introduce stricter rules, more transparency for political fundraising
'The elegant thing for her to do is resign': Will B.C. Premier concede defeat?
B.C. NDP and Greens agree to fight pipeline, hold referendum and hike carbon tax
Christy Clark not ready to walk away, will recall house
Highlights of the NDP and Green party deal in B.C.
B.C. election results put federally-approved Trans Mountain pipeline in jeopardy
The ball is in Christy Clark's court
Alberta lawmakers react after B.C. Greens, New Democrats strike deal
How a relative at MMIW copes: fishing, curling and a pet dog
Big changes in store for B.C. under NDP and Greens
On pipeline, Horgan and Weaver can do little but posture
B.C, NDP and Greens seal power sharing deal with confidence agreement
Liberal MP'S in B.C. could be among biggest losers in Green-NDP alliance





CityWest to share the next steps for Prince Rupert Service today at Noon

CityWest is inviting the public to stop into their Third Avenue West offices at noon today to hear what they are billing as a special announcement that will outline their plan to continue to provide the Prince Rupert area with superior customer service.

The City of Prince Rupert owned communication company issued the invitation through their Facebook portal, adding that refreshments will be provided as part of the lunch hour event.



The company has been on an extensive expansion campaign in recent months in communities east of the city, with a large focus on Terrace, Smithers and the Houston area where they have upgraded, or introduced new fibre optic services and other improvements to those community systems.

Today will offer customers in Prince Rupert a glimpse into how they will work to add to the local communications infrastructure.

For those that can't make it to the CityWest offices over the lunch hour they have plans to go live on their Facebook page at that time to deliver the comments from CityWest CEO Chris Marrett.

For more items related to CityWest see our archive page here.

Cross posted from the North Coast Review

City's tax notices make their journey to your mailbox this week

Mayor Lee Brain has provided a short review
of the year for residents as part of this years
Property Taxation Notice
The second stage of the City of Prince Rupert's tax collection process is now underway as the City's property tax notices begin to arrive in mailboxes across Prince Rupert, providing residents with the final word on whether they will be paying less, paying more or holding to last years totals when it comes to funds required by City Hall.

The Property tax call marks the final request for money for the year, the first having come back in January when the City issued their tax bills for the range of services such as water and garbage collection that they provide to the City.

Along with this years Notice is what has become an annual State of the City letter from the Mayor, with Mayor Lee Brain providing a few thoughts on the progress of this Council as they look to deliver city services and offer up ambitious plans for the future.

The letter is large on infrastructure this year with the mayor noting the range of paving projects currently underway in the community this year.

As well, the city's waterline projects make for key elements for the city this year, with the city making note of their success when it comes to their applications for a number of federal and provincial grants, to go along with their own financial contributions towards those large scale projects.

As well as the ongoing work to bring Watson Island back to life as a revenue generating industrial site gets a prominent mention in this years Tax Notice newsletter, though there is no mention of any of the legal issues that have surrounded the site from the past, nor the cost to the city of maintenance of the site while they await the new development to bring its financial returns.

Among some of the Mayor's observations from this years tidings of civic governance are:

Since 2015, we've rolled up our sleeves and got to work to bring now over $30 million dollars in grants as well as capital contributions from Prince Rupert Legacy Inc. towards new infrastructure in Prince Rupert.

Just this year we issued a $6.9 million dollar contract for Phase 1 of our Water Works project, and it was also announced that we received a $7.1 million dollar grant for Phase 2 of the Water Works project to replace our 100 year old dam. Although this project is not visible to the community, this is Council's number one infrastructure priority because of the urgency in securing our community's 100 year old water supply.

Although Prince Rupert has suffered a depressed economy, we are now gathering steam to revitalize the community by undertaking the the following initiatives: a design for our downtown and waterfront; supporting and advocating for new affordable housing initiatives, re-engaging public participation in the Redesign Rupert initiative and repaving announcements for the Highway and downtown core.

This summer we also expect to see the decommissioning of the old pulp mill site. We've removed all chemicals and are now looking towards the redevelopment of Watson Island. The Letter of Intent signed in April of 2017 with Pembina, for a Liquid Propane Gas export facility (LPG) on the site is a step towards bringing Watson Island back onto the tax roll. To generate additional revenues, we will be pursuing future development opportunities for the remainder of the site as well.

The Mayor also points to  areas that the City consider to be financially challenging, whether it is the current arrangement with Port Edward on Ridley Island Tax Sharing, or the larger issues with the Province and it's port property tax system.

For the city, those two external factors appear to be the major cause of much of their financial concern, with the Mayor suggesting that the issues are the main reason that the financial burden falls to the taxpayer, both residential and commercial.

However, it should be noted that those financial limitations have not had too large an impact when it comes to the increase in city staffing levels both operational and as part of the city's growing bureaucracy.

Council has also attached some high importance towards the ambitious planning for downtown, waterfront and Seal Cove revitalization and an expanding list of interests that council members have advocated for over the last three years.

While they may be concerned about how those external factors are impacting on their ability to continue to develop their plans, they are moving forward with many of them. Whether by way of continuing to draw down on the Legacy Corp funding that remains, through increases in user fees at recreation facilities, or by way of increases to taxes and utilities fees for commercial and residential users.

The letter to residents of Prince Rupert also provides for some unusually blunt language about the city's neighbours, comments that may not be very well received by the Port Edward side of the negotiating table.

Unfortunately, our capacity to reduce taxes or increase spending on infrastructure, services, or new amenities is currently hindered by two major factors: The Provincial Port Property Tax Act, which caps the tax rate at which we can collect revenues from major port industries, and the Ridley Island Tax Sharing Agreement, which transfers 17% of Ridley Island Tax revenues to the District of Port Edward. Each year, we lose a combined $1.2 million dollars (and growing) due to these two issues, with the burden shifting to the commercial and residential taxpayers.

Because of the unintended consequences of the Tax Cap, we are working with the Provincial government and the Port of Prince Rupert to find a mutually agreeable solution as soon as possible.

In addition, we are now seeking to renegotiate the Ridley Island Tax Sharing Agreement with the District of Port Edward, and to negotiate a fairer agreement with respect to cost-sharing for shared services because we believe its unfair to ask taxpayers to continue paying 22% of another community's budget each year.

The Mayor's address to the people closes with anticipation of another great year ahead as Council looks to continue to advance the interests of Prince Rupert. Along with that promise of performance, is the observation, that despite the challenges ahead, the Council and the City will continue to be innovative, efficient and fighting for the community to ensure that they can provide its residents with the best possible quality of life that we all deserve.

Along with Mayor Brain's themes, the city has also included some information for residents to review about how the taxation dollars are allocated, first by way of a breakdown of where the tax dollars go that are assessed both by the City and by other regional organizations.

City of Prince Rupert 64.3%
School Tax 26.2%
North Coast Regional District 2.0%
Northwest Regional Hospital District 7.1%
B.C. Assessment and Municipal Finance Authority 0.4%

A graph is also included to show how the City uses it's 64.3% share of our tax revenues and how much of it is allocated towards some of our key municipal services such as RCMP, Fire, Recreation, Airport Ferry and various elements of Civic Government to name a few of the seventeen areas listed.




There is also a sneak preview of the City's Annual Report that is scheduled to be released in mid-June.  That features an infographic review of some of the City highlights, from Watson Island, to the Grand Opening of the Cow Bay Marina and the ongoing consultation process for the redesign of the city's waterfront and downtown areas.



The preview also provides a look at the current paving projects underway, with the City making note of the 4.5 million dollars in work taking place in the community this summer.

In their update for the community the City makes mention of both the City's project on Third Avenue and the larger project of Highway 16.  Though the city's notes neglect to mention that the Province of BC is providing the funding for the extensive work taking place from the Lester Centre, to Fairview Terminal.

The City also appears to be holding firm with their own population count, noting that they believe that there are currently 13,766 people in the community.

A figure somewhat at odds and significantly less than what Stats Canada delivered earlier this year, when the Federal agency count settled on a population count of 11,733, a number which indicated a continued decline from the figures of 2011. As we noted back in January, Stats Canada's findings also noted that the larger regional population was pegged at 12,200 which is also a decline from four years ago.

For its part, the infographic doesn't provide an explanation as to how the City has estimated their population count, nor does it offer up how there could be a 2,000 person difference between the Federal and municipal findings.

When the full Annual Report is released next month, you will be able to view an online version of it here.

The Tax notice mailing also provides information for residents as to how they can pay their taxes, claim the home ownership grant or seek a BC Government Property Tax Deferment.

The deadline for payment of taxes is July 4th, after which a 10 percent penalty can be assessed on delinquent accounts.

More notes on this years Taxation and Budget process can be found on our archive page here.

While notes related to Discussion topics at Prince Rupert City Council can be reviewed from our Council Discussion archive.

Cross posted from the North Coast Review







Monday, May 29, 2017

BC election Digest: May 29--June 4, 2017



The archive of notes from the campaign trail for May 29 -- June 4, 2017

Hey Gang, we're getting closer to closure ...

June 2 

Discord over Trans Mountain expansion rattles Canadian politics
Alberta-B.C. pipeline standoff 'at at turning point' Notley says
Greater Vancouver housing market heats up as B.C. politics shift
The B.C. election is over, but Round 2 is just getting started
B.C.'s election has imperilled a hydroelectric megaproject in the province's northeast
John Horgan's NDP mulls over which anti-Trans Mountain court case to join
Expert says columnist suggestion Alberta shut duel pipeline to B.C. 'pretty ruinous'
B.C. pipeline showdown: Will Kinder Morgan expansion get built?
Horgan could be B.C. premier by early July
An NDP government on tenterhooks
Horgan urges Clark to recall legislature, citing softwood, drug crisis
B.C.'s Greens and NDP prove anti-oil types won't settle for anything but crushing Alberta
How the B.C. Liberals squandered there chance to keep power
No further concessions on Trans Mountain, Kinder Morgan Canada says
John Horgan urges BC Hydro not to finalize Site C deals
Horgan to Hydro: Don't sign New Site C contracts or evict residents
B.C. election could transform development picture, starting with 105 Keefer rezoning


June 1

Alberta and B.C.'s relationship has gone sour
NDP-Greens seek ways to cool British Columbia's housing market
John Horgan and Christy Clark weigh in on $867M softwood lumber assistance package
Elections BC says 61.5% of registered voters cast ballots this election
David Suzuki says NDP-Green alliance a 'wonderful opportunity'
Andrew Weaver called out for not suiting up to bike to work
John Horgan calls on BC Hydro not to finalize Site C contracts
BC NDP's John Horgan puts Washington trip on softwood agenda
Horgan's Hydro dealings promise to be riveting power play
B.C.'s NDP transition team on hold until Clark government voted out
An MLA with diarrhea could topple the government: A playlist of just how crazy things could get in B.C.
Ride-hailing still coming to B.C., but NDP, Greens offer few details
In pipeline dispute, Alberta has ways to get tough with B.C.
Clark is right to force a vote
How NDP might govern, with greens hovering
B.C. premier welcomes fed $876M in softwood help
The Big Winner in BC's Election? Citizens
What Madness Lies Ahead for BC's Legislature


May 31

Inside the negotiations to determine B.C.'s next government
B.C. left-of-centre alliance expected to usher in green economic vision
Trudeau Liberals, B.C. set to face off over Pacific NorthWest LNG
Lower mainland mayors await transit talks with NDP-Greens
Notley says B.C. must allow Alberta access to the coast
A historic moment for B.C. politics - and our environment
The road ahead for B.C. politics
NDP leader John Horgan confident none of his MLAs will join Liberals
B.C. has no exclusive claim on its coast, Alberta premier warns pipeline foes
Ottawa to announce nearly $1B in aid for softwood lumber industry
Alliance has two party heads, but one NDP brain
Setting B.C. on course to $15 per hour minimum wage on NDP/Green government agenda
A glimpse behind the scenes of B.C.'s power-sharing talks
B.C.'s next political quagmire is electing a Speaker of the Legislature
Business leaders express concern about promises in B.C. NDP-Green agreement
It's B.C. vs Alberta and Ottawa in a pipeline battle royale
Weaver, Horgan inform lieutenant governor about their deal
Tag-team brawl coming over pipeline
Big changes are on the way
Culture clash key to B.C. minority talks
Dear Premier Clark, Don't give up (but try not to look like you are clinging to power)
B.C. is a on the precipice of a marvellous drama, with high odds of everything blowing up soon
BC NDP and Greens to push legal challenge of Trans Mountain pipeline
John Horgan, Andrew Weaver visit B.C.'s government house
BC NDP and Greens to push legal challenge of Trans Mountain pipeline
A brave new world of policy in British Columbia
Ottawa and Alberta warned to tone down pipeline rhetoric
Forget any economic windfall from Kinder Morgan, Analyst says
B.C. Liberals are doomed if they don't do an about-face on climate change


May 30 

Trudeau defends Trans Mountain as BC Greens, NDP gear up for fight
What will people think of B.C's political makeover?
Electoral reform, political donations part of deal between BC NDP, Greens
Minority government could be the tonic B.C. needs
BC Greens agree to support NDP: A look at what happens next
NDP-Green accord touted as a way to give B.C. certainty provides Trudeau anything but
Trudeau stands by decision on Trans Mountain pipeline despite B.C. result
Beginning of the end: a chastened Clark acknowledges her premiership is likely coming to a close
NDP-Green alliance to focus on electoral reform, stopping Kinder Morgan and banning big money
Delta Mayor 'concerned' bridge to replace George Massey tunnel won't move forward
Kinder Morgan Canada shares fall in debut amid political uncertainty in B.C.
Horgan, Weaver hope to tread historic path in minority government
Christy Clark to stay on as B.C. premier -for now
NDP , Greens take aim at Kinder Morgan, Site C in power sharing deal
Tolls on Port Mann and Golden Ears bridges to fall under NDP/Green agreement
Christy Clark vows to fight on even as ability to govern slips away
Alberta's Notley warns B.C's NDP, Greens not to 'stand in the way' of Trans Mountain pipeline
B.C.'s NDP-Green alliance troubling for Canadian economy, energy projects
Pipeline politics key to Weaver weaving historic deal
Green, NDP priorities to test new 'expression of hope'
Christy Clark isn't the type to just roll over and quit
Clark to recall legislature, expects Liberal defeat
Greens and NDP didn't have to move much to find a deal
Text of deal between B.C. Green Party and B.C. NDP
'Mark my words:' Alberta's Notley says pipeline coming no matter B.C. politics
Inside the NDP-Green governing agreement
Christy Clark to stay on as B.C. Premier
B.C. NDP and Greens agree to fight pipeline, hold referendum and hike carbon tax
Christy Clark not resigning as premier - yet - will seek confidence of the B.C. legislature
British Columbia's unstable politics shows why first past the post is the preferable electoral system
To solve Canada's social housing problem, we should look to Britain's privatization schemes
'The elegant thing for her to do is resign': Will B.C. Premier concede defeat?
B.C. NDP and Greens agree to fight pipeline, hold referendum and hike carbon tax
Christy Clark not ready to walk away, will recall house
Highlights of the NDP and Green party deal in B.C.
B.C. election results put federally-approved Trans Mountain pipeline in jeopardy
The ball is in Christy Clark's court
Alberta lawmakers react after B.C. Greens, New Democrats strike deal
Big changes in store for B.C. under NDP and Greens
On pipeline, Horgan and Weaver can do little but posture
B.C, NDP and Greens seal power sharing deal with confidence agreement
Liberal MP'S in B.C. could be among biggest losers in Green-NDP alliance
NDP and Greens promise electoral reform referendum, Big Money Ban and Higher Carbon Tax
Christy Clark to Recall Legislature, Expects to Be Defeated
B.C.'s Tense Election Showdown Reaches Its Rightful Conclusion
Clark acknowledges her government likely to fall 


May 29

BC Greens strike deal with NDP to force end of Liberal era
B.C.'s political union: Promises, a jilted suitor and four years of drama
It's not a done deal, but expectations are already shifting in B.C. politics
BC Green Party agrees to support NDP in the Legislature
B.C. election could be over as NDP and Greens announce 'difficult' deal to form government
NDP leadership hopeful Ashton pregnant and pressing on: 'Like millions of Canadian women I will carry on'
NDP-Green pact lowers curtain on B.C. Liberal reign
What does the B.C. NDP-Green deal means for rest of Canada
Greens and NDP Agree to End Liberal Era
Green's New Influence Changes Game for Trudeau Liberals, Says May
Pipeline politics key to Weaver weaving historic deal
Greens to support NDP in four  four-year government deal
Future of BC. politics in Clark's hands - for time being, at least
5 things you need to know about the NDP-Green party agreement
Change the vote system without a referendum
Horgan will ride razor's edge as Liberals look for revenge
Greens to support NDP in forming minority government
Last minute recoil sends Greens To NDP
NDP-Green deal brings power to the Island
BC NDP and Green Party intend to form minority government
Yes, Christy Clark won the election
Sanity, principle, and integrity triumphs in B.C. Greens' deal with NDP
B.C. Greens pledge to support 'stable minority government' led by NDP
B.C. Greens and NDP strike deal for 'stable' minority government
B.C. has a minority government which rarely lasts long in Canada
Is John Horgan B.C.'s premier now? And other questions, answered
NDP reaches deal with Greens to form minority government
Change the vote system without a referendum
Alberta lawmakers react after B.C. Greens, New Democrats strike deal

Victoria Viewpoints: Monday, May 29, 2017




Our compilation of some of the stories of note from the day, reviewing the political developments from the Provincial scene:

The Horgan/Weaver accord

BC Greens strike deal with NDP to force end of Liberal era
B.C.'s political union: Promises, a jilted suitor and four years of drama
It's not a done deal, but expectations are already shifting in B.C. politics
BC Green Party agrees to support NDP in the Legislature
B.C. election could be over as NDP and Greens announce 'difficult' deal to form government
NDP leadership hopeful Ashton pregnant and pressing on: 'Like millions of Canadian women I will carry on'
NDP-Green pact lowers curtain on B.C. Liberal reign
What does the B.C. NDP-Green deal means for rest of Canada
Greens and NDP Agree to End Liberal Era
Green's New Influence Changes Game for Trudeau Liberals, Says May
Pipeline politics key to Weaver weaving historic deal
Greens to support NDP in four  four-year government deal
Future of BC. politics in Clark's hands - for time being, at least
5 things you need to know about the NDP-Green party agreement
Change the vote system without a referendum
Horgan will ride razor's edge as Liberals look for revenge
Greens to support NDP in forming minority government
Last minute recoil sends Greens To NDP
NDP-Green deal brings power to the Island
BC NDP and Green Party intend to form minority government
Yes, Christy Clark won the election
Sanity, principle, and integrity triumphs in B.C. Greens' deal with NDP
B.C. Greens pledge to support 'stable minority government' led by NDP
B.C. Greens and NDP strike deal for 'stable' minority government
B.C. has a minority government which rarely lasts long in Canada
Is John Horgan B.C.'s premier now? And other questions, answered
NDP reaches deal with Greens to form minority government
Change the vote system without a referendum
Alberta lawmakers react after B.C. Greens, New Democrats strike deal
Foes of the B.C. Greens and NDP react to their axis of ...


Challenge to oil tanker ban is about more than First Nations' treaty rights
Dispute over B.C. Nurses Union
Trans Mountain IPO to proceed despite B.C. Green-NDP deal
Flooding in B.C.'s Interior harming local businesses
Evacuation alert issued for Lilloeet-area homes as wildfire grows