On January 23, 2019 I issued news release calling on BC Liberal MLA Linda Reid (Richmond South Centre) to step aside as Assistant Deputy Speaker until such time as whistleblower allegations contained within Speaker Darryl Plecas’ bombshell report were investigated. I am very pleased that today she did indeed do just that. Below is the press release my office issued in response.

Media release

Andrew Weaver statement in response to MLA Linda Reid stepping aside as Assistant Deputy Speaker
For immediate release
February 12, 2019

VICTORIA, B.C. – Andrew Weaver, leader of the B.C. Green Party, issued the following statement in response to MLA Linda Reid’s resignation as Assistant Deputy Speaker of the House:

“Over the past few months allegations of systemic financial wrongdoing have emerged at the B.C. Legislature. These allegations suggest a culture of entitlement and are already compromising British Columbians’ trust in their democratic institution.

“Last month I called on MLA Reid to step aside as Assistant Deputy Speaker as all parties work to restore public trust. I felt strongly that it was inappropriate for MLA Reid to continue to serve as Assistant Deputy Speaker until the allegations of the Speaker’s report could be fully addressed, given the higher threshold of trust required by the role.

“Her decision to step down is an important step, but only one of many that must be taken by all parties to address the alleged abuses of power that have gone on for far too long. The B.C. Green Caucus is committed to ensuring a culture of transparency and accountability in B.C. politics.”

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Media contact
Macon McGinley, Press Secretary
+1 250-882-6187 |macon.mcginley@leg.bc.ca