Bell Disappointed in Lekstrom's Resignation

Friday, June 11, 2010 11:51 AM

Prince George, B.C.- Prince George-Mackenzie MLA and Minister of Forests and Range Pat Bell says he is very disappointed to hear Blair Lekstrom has not only resigned from the Provincial Cabinet but the B.C. Liberal Caucus "I have always believed you can accomplish more by being inside government than outside".

Lekstrom, the MLA for Peace River South and former Minister of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources resigned earlier today saying while he supported the Campbell Government's initial move to switch to te harmonized sales tax, the people in his constituency are his first priority and "In light of the widespread opposition to the HST, I believe it would be prudent to bring the move toward the HST to a halt and immediately engage British Columbians in a dialogue about our taxation policy."

Bell agrees the HST is controversial, but by being a member of Cabinet "There is lots of opportunity to impact policy." Bell says he has no plans to follow Lekstrom's move "I ran as a B.C. Liberal, and I believe I have an opportunity within government to impact future policy, I will continue to serve as Minister of Forests."

Bell says the Prince George region has seen some significant accomplishments over the past 9 years, ( the Northern Cancer Care Centre, Northern Sports Centre, twinning of the Simon Fraser Bridge, Cariboo Connector work, return to work at mills in Mackenzie) largely because of the work of the two local MLA's who hold strong Cabinet positions.

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Posted on Friday, June 11, 2010 11:51 AM in News by 250 News

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Comments

Posted by: Harbinger on June 11 2010 12:13 PM

The "rats" beginning to dessert the sinking ship already? To coin a most ancient phrase. Then again...

Posted by: Denaljo on June 11 2010 12:17 PM

Bells real disappointment was that they could not muzzle all the Liberals all the time!

Posted by: graymare on June 11 2010 12:20 PM

I don't think it as the "rats" leaving, I look at as a MLA listen to his "employees" - the people that elected him.

I would have more respect for Bell if he left the liberal party and represented me.

Posted by: Pylot Project on June 11 2010 12:21 PM

- Bell agrees the HST is controversial, but by being a member of Cabinet "There is lots of opportunity to impact policy."

Are you kidding me? What planet does Bell think he lives on? You can't go against the almighty Campbell and his henchmen without retribution. You either tow the party line or you are removed... end of story.

Thankfully Blair Lekstrom has the cajones to say what is right.

Posted by: metalman on June 11 2010 12:39 PM

Silly of Hamburger Patty to state that he thinks he can do more good working inside the system. Only he, or other currently serving BC Liberals would agree with or believe that hogwash. Yeah, like I really believe he is serving his constituents by toeing the party line. He has no credibility with me, nor has he done enough to earn my respect. He is just another yes man for the party.
metalman.

Posted by: jakeadoo on June 11 2010 1:15 PM

It's kind of ironic that it was the BC Liberals who eventually tried to take on the community of Bountiful,BC.They figured the women were brainwashed into believing in that lifestyle.Yet they can't see that their own illustrious leader and his puppet Colin Hansen have all the rest of the cabinet brainwashed into believing the HST crap.Pretty week minded individuals if you ask me.I think that Pat Bell figures if he can bring about some minor changes as to what the HST is charged on,that he has worked on behalf of his constituents.What a joke this guy is.

Posted by: Resident on June 11 2010 1:27 PM

Too bad Bell and Bond won't listen to the people who voted for them like Blair Lekstrom did. Amazing how once voted in they forget who they represent. Now we just need another 1/2 dozen Liberal MLA's to follow their conscience and do as Blair did. Hats off to Lekstrom!

Posted by: Norm on June 11 2010 1:31 PM

I am disappointed with Bell and have respect for Lekstrom. He is representing the people who elected him.
ps - Bell will NOT be receiving my vote...

Posted by: newtechie on June 11 2010 2:05 PM

Bell Won't get my vote either.

The HST did it for me.

Posted by: Pylot Project on June 11 2010 2:14 PM

Something just came to mind... I haven't read nor heard a peep out of Shirley Bond on this HST subject. I visited her website and she hasn't posted any kind of an opinion on it. She only has a link to the "official" Gov't website regarding the HST.

Her overall silence is interesting. Pat Bell has been more vocal on the subject.

Posted by: BCRacer on June 11 2010 2:16 PM

Bell is no rat, but he is pretty much useless as far as I am concerned....maybe he should go back to "WENDY's"...maybe they want him, I sure don't...not smart enoughto quit either...a HUGE CAMPBELL YES MAN.....

Posted by: dan on June 11 2010 2:21 PM

Pylot Project Bell is more vocal because he loves to hear his own voice. However, that doesnt mean anything of substance is coming out. But the lips are always moving.

I wonder if Lekstrom will be successful once he has left the party, or will just fade away like Paul Nettleton.

Posted by: gus on June 11 2010 2:34 PM

"I have always believed you can accomplish more by being inside government than outside".

That is a belief many people have who work with an organization. However, the "proof is in the pudding". For Mr. Leckstrom it seems that he was unable to sway others to his way of thinking, which he feels is the thinking of many in his constituency, so it is time to try another tactic if he has some things to "accomplish" that he feels are not being accomplished.

One can only hang on for so long.

Posted by: lost it all on June 11 2010 2:38 PM

"I wonder if Lekstrom will be successful once he has left the party, or will just fade away like Paul Nettleton."

I think Mr Lekstrom has made a choice that will ensure his success going forward.

Holding your head high as you walk among his people far outways having to hide your head in shame because you have abandoned your principles for a nice resume.

As far as Paul Nettleton he seems to get more and more praise everyday as someone who abides by his own principles, seems he has become very successful as well.

Posted by: gus on June 11 2010 2:41 PM

BTW, I agree we have strong representation in this community from the two MLAs.

However, that does not mean that they always make the right decisions from the point of view of some of the electorate. In the case of the HST, it is clearly a wrong decision for a significant number of voters, many of whom voted for the BCLiberals.

Posted by: metalman on June 11 2010 2:45 PM

"Pylot Project Bell is more vocal because he loves to hear his own voice. However, that doesnt mean anything of substance is coming out. But the lips are always moving"

Hee hee hee, that is very humourous, and oh so true. Well said.
metalman.

Posted by: pgguru on June 11 2010 3:19 PM

pat bell has no reason to be dissapointed.lekstrom has showed strong support for the people of bc unlike bell.

Posted by: Pylot Project on June 11 2010 3:26 PM

dan and metalman

Be careful, your deeply rooted narcissism is showing.

and btw you two brainiacs... I wasn't supporting Bell, I was only pointing out he's been more visible on the subject than Bond has. If that annoys you... too bad.

Posted by: marvin1040 on June 11 2010 3:36 PM

I have voted liberal for many years,and am sorry that I did. Ever since the lying that BC Rail would not be sold, then the lies about BC Hydro no part would be sold and now the out right lyin about the GST. I can still see the person on tv making a statement that the HST was not on the agenda. I feel that we have to get rid of Bond, Bell, Cambell and the rest of the liberal party before we lose all of British Columbia, and becomw part of the USA. Time to get a LEADER for the NDP

Posted by: BC Mary on June 11 2010 4:24 PM

I had to chuckle, when I read that Paul Nettleton had "faded away".

You are kidding, right?

Posted by: Savvvy on June 11 2010 4:46 PM

I'm disappointing in Pat's disappointment. Honestly ... the Liberal talking-point of "I'm disappointed" was exhausted by then Minister Bond in every exhaustive press release she gave...

Pat needs to wake up. The BC Liberals are at a 26% approval rating and bound to drop more.

Lie to taxpayers before an election, especially about taxes and you'll pay the price.

It's time for a real Liberal party to form in BC. These guys are not even close ... and as a result, recall will be successful around the Province. 60% of respondents stated they'd sign recall legislation (Angus Reid poll)

Posted by: Savvvy on June 11 2010 4:46 PM

then Education Minister Bond ...

Posted by: Harbinger on June 11 2010 4:49 PM

Just before the next election wait and see how many Lieberals won't be running again so "they can spend more time with their families" and it does take a lot of time to get their pensions out and into the economy too. I'll remind ya.

Posted by: metalman on June 11 2010 4:50 PM

Pylot, you misunderstand. Go back and re-read my previous post.
And now, a comment intended for all, hopefully not too offensive to some;
When posting an opinion or reply in this format (electronic messaging of any type)it sure is easy to inadvertantly convey an impression that may be misconstrued.
metalman.

Posted by: Grant G on June 11 2010 4:51 PM

Blair Leckstrom is in SELF SURVIVAL MODE...

Blair has good reason to run....The chickens have come home to roost...

Or have you not heard....

BC Hydro has started selling IPP(Pirate power)power on the Columbia grid....

BC Hydro is selling this power for 1/2 cent per kilo watt hour KWH......

But Leckstrom and Campbell are paying 12.6 cents to the IPP for this power....

The result is huge losses of revenue for BC Hydro...Guess who will be getting more rate increases to pay for it?

Average BCers....That is another reason Blair Leckstrom ran for the hills.

http://powellriverpersuader.blogspot.com/2010/06/blair-leckstron-puts-foot-in-his-mouth.html

Cheers

Posted by: Toffee on June 11 2010 5:22 PM

It's unfortunate that Prince George is not represented by MLA's who understand who they were elected by and who they therefore are supposed to represent.
The time is right for recall to succeed. The electorate will only take so much - the HST lie has created a huge majority who will not take anymore of Campbell's cronies, in and outside of government.
Blair Leckstrom was a man of principle when he was the Mayor of Dawson Creek, he remains a man of principle - good for you Blair you'll be rewarded in the future by your electorate.

Posted by: seamutt on June 11 2010 6:53 PM

Bell and Bond time to cowboy and cowgirl up. Just wonder what party Leckstrom may start, socreds?

Posted by: Honestjoe on June 11 2010 7:15 PM

Pat Bell, you will not get my vote either. I was impressed by your past performance but now you are becoming a coward and not representing the wishes of the people who elected you. You are an enemy of democracy and it is time you returned to Wendy's and flipped some burgers. Good Bye....

Posted by: TOFC on June 11 2010 7:45 PM

I had the oppourtunity to meet Blair last summer here in PG. My impression of him was that he was a stand up guy with strong morals..kind of good ol boy meets wall street. He actually invited me to Dawson creek to visit any time...He did what he felt was the prudent thing to do and he will have no problem finding a place among the employed of this province, good luck Blair!

Posted by: muckermike on June 11 2010 8:17 PM

Cheers Blair! It's nice to know there are still politicians who remember their job is to represent the wishes of the people who elected them. You and Paul could be the start of honesty in politics.

Posted by: doneright on June 11 2010 8:21 PM

There time to leave is close at hand

Posted by: boomer on June 11 2010 8:30 PM

Blair Lekstrom has been around long enough to get a decent pension. He doesn't need to work. He'll be able to finish out this term as a stand up guy.
My question is why would a man of such high moral integrity wait a year to do something. The end of May 2009 would have been the time. Or maybe his morals aren't that high after all. Quitters don't win and Winners don't quit.

Posted by: REALIST on June 11 2010 8:57 PM

"There is lots of opportunity to impact policy." Bell says he has no plans to follow Lekstrom's move "I ran as a B.C. Liberal, and I believe I have an opportunity within government to impact future policy, I will continue to serve as Minister of Forests."

No surprise there, Bell's usual view of Campbells backside obstructs his ability to say anything other than words produced by Campbells other end. Nice of Blair to finally say enough is enough but too little too late. The remaining members of the bc lieberals remain Campbells sock puppets and have held on way too long to abandon the sinking ship.
At least the NDP's ships stayed afloat long enough to be sold while maintaining the tax dollars within the province. Campbells sinking ship has taken BC Rail, BC Hydro and control of our own waterways down with the rest of the barnacles afixed to his posterior. Makes the BC ferries error look like an act of genius compaired to this performance.

Posted by: Dragonmaster on June 11 2010 9:35 PM

http://thetyee.ca/Opinion/2010/05/14/ForestFirmsLoveHST/

Posted by: thedogs on June 11 2010 11:22 PM

While the sell off of the rest of B.C.'s public assets continues at high speed the budget is 800 times larger than what Campbell stated in his election platform health and schools have been gutted once again while corporate salaries
are thro the roof, Bell, Bond , Rustad, my dog might as well be in the liberal cabinet for all good you three have done for your average contituant my cost of living is huge compared to 9 years ago, perhaps we might start clawing back all those tax breaks given to corporations over the last few years but for sure you ALL need to be removed and charges of electoral fraud need to be considered

Posted by: acrider54 on June 12 2010 6:29 AM

I knew Bell has had his 'bell" rung, not too bright that fellow.

Posted by: pgguru on June 12 2010 10:18 AM

out with the liberals in with the green party

Posted by: jakeadoo on June 12 2010 11:28 AM

Seems to be alot of others jumping off the bandwagon,if you get my drift.

Posted by: Eagleone on June 12 2010 2:53 PM

So Bell represents the liberal party to his constituents and not the other way around... because in Pat Bells words he can feel he has accomplished something. The man doesn't have the faintest clue as to how a democracy is supposed to work. Pat Bell works for power and power corrupts absolutely when one works for power rather then principles.

Look what Pat Bell did to Mackenzie bringing that community to its knees following corrupted BC liberal policies like the privatization of BC Rail against election promises.. removing local tenure requirements.. selling the pulp mill to convicted fraud artists that soaked the government for a $150 million of our tax dollars... how can any of that be considered an accomplishment?

I think Pat Bell has been one of the worst fast talking politicians in BC history and yet he still finds a way to spin it as an opportunity if we just keep supporting him and his agenda for power.

I'll bring my own pen to sign his recall from power if giving the opportunity.

Posted by: Andyfreeze on June 12 2010 3:11 PM

Unfortunately,this northern area is represented by the likes of Bond,Bell,and Rustad.
They are well known for being Campbell butt-kissers, and have little regard for the people who elected them.
Blair Lekstrom obviously heard the message being sent by the voters.
Bond,Bell,and Rustad would be wise to pay attention to that as well,but as usual,they will do what they are told to do.
They may regret that.

Posted by: Eagleone on June 12 2010 3:47 PM

Furthermore, if the likes of Bell, Bond, and Rustad only represent the liberal party over the wishes of the majority constituents... than what chance really does an individual have of being represented on any single issue that doesn't fit with the Gordon Campbell edicts or the edicts of their bureaucracy?

If they can dismiss and defy debate on an issue against the majority, than the individual is little more than irrelevant in their eyes.

Posted by: supertech on June 12 2010 7:52 PM

these MLA's will walk away with a nice pension talking about how stupid the voters in this province are. They are right. You keep voting in socialists and get legislated to death while you're being taken to the cleaners.
Paul Ramsey is doing just that right now. I think the people of this province had better read about different forms of government, then make a decision. If you don't realize that this is not a democracy, there is no hope. We have to elect people who can change things and the 'old status quo' cannot do that. The only BC party with a democratic idea of change is the BC Refederation Party. Send them some money so they can get elected next time. Isn't it a shame that only the partys with money get elected?? Hmmmm- now why would that be?

Posted by: dow7500 on June 12 2010 11:38 PM

The truly sad outcome of this misshandeled hst initiative is the life it has given the NDP. Rarely do you see a majority government implode all on their own like this. Bell and Bonds unconditional love for poor Liberal policy and even poorer implementation will have us back in the world controlled by dippers. Nice legacy. I wouldn't expect a Nettleton like revolt from them but even token acknowledgement of voters concerns on the Carbon tax and HST and not the party BS would have went a long ways.

Posted by: Savvvy on June 13 2010 5:37 PM

The problem with the BC Liberal Party is their sense that they are not accountable to their constituents.

It's time to send a clear message to Liberals like Bell that they work at our behest, not the other way around.

This "we know best" pandering is shameful.

Recalling BC Liberals is the way to show this and future elected officials that their seat is ALWAYS in jeopardy if they don't listen to constituents.

Pat just doesn't get it. Voters, it seems, will have to explain it to him.

Posted by: Chester on June 13 2010 11:25 PM

So, at what point does Pat Bell actually feel he should be representing the people who voted for him for his current position? It's quite simple actually. The time has come to ask what do we think? Rather than what does he think? One vote and he is in, and one vote he is out. We are a fickle lot, really. Tick us off one time, or do something to give us the impression you have your own agenda and we will dump you on your can so fast you won't know what happened.

Guess what? BC votes people out rather than vote somebody else in. So, you are never secure in your job. Why don't your give us more reasons to vote for you rather than reasons to dump you? We don't trust you anymore. Once the trust in gone, all is gone. Good Luck. I am hoping that we have somebody else worthy of our vote.

Posted by: Andyfreeze on June 14 2010 7:27 AM

Bang on Chester!
What all of these "elected" wonder boys and girls need to start remembering is that it is NOT about what THEY think!
It is about what those who voted for them think,and just who it is they work for!
They don't just work for self-serving party leaders like Gordon Campbell who dictates how they will vote on an issue.
I would venture to say that every damn one of them throughout the Prince George region are in trouble!
I doubt they care!
And all because they didn't listen and are still not listening!
As well,it always comes down to the incumbent having the advantage at election time,regarless of whether of not they have actually accomplished much.
People like Bell,Bond,and Rustad should be hearing footsteps coming up behind them by now.
The same would apply to federal reps like Jay Hill etc. who seem to just ride on bullsh**t and very little sustance!
I guess that fat pension waiting for them turns them all deaf to their constituents.
Accountability is everything,and it is nice to see people pushing back!