“To build the proposed Trades and Technology Center will require a budget of $7.4 million … an amount equal to today’s interest payment on BC’s debt”

The following is a media release that went out today (September 26) from the Kamloops South Thompson Constituency Association, of the BC Conservative Party:

In the Service Plan for 2012 – 2015, former Education Minister George Abbot stated that; “The world has changed significantly since our education system was designed and while we continue to have a very strong system, we must make bold changes to support our teachers and ensure that every student receives an education that reflects their unique needs, interests and passions."

Despite these words, the NorKam Trades and Technology Centre, which will nurture and develop science and technology in the Kamloops area, and provide skills for workers that are needed in tech trades, remains little more than a dream.  It sits awaiting approval from the Liberal government.

Earlier this Summer Kamloops Liberal MLA Terry Lake indicated this project was his #1 priority, and that it was a priority for the government as well.

“How many times will we be hearing Terry Lake, and the Liberal government of Christy Clark repeat those words?” asked Peter Sharp, Vice-President of the BC Conservative Party’s Kamloops South Thompson South Thompson Constituency Association.

“All across the province new classrooms and schools are being built in Revelstoke, Surrey, Williams Lake, Langley, Fort St. John, Port Alberni, Burnaby, Victoria, Kitsilano, and Chilliwack.  Missing from that list however, is the city of Kamloops.”

That is who, and what, the party is ... and must remain

The MEMBERS of the BC Conservative Party had a great AGM, despite negative comments from pundits, the media, and some who were trying to undermine the party.

Friday night we heard great words from Jordan Bateman of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation.  Among other things, he spoke on the necessity of government getting spending under control, and ending the opportunity for CEO's and upper management of Crown Corps and agencies to give themselves big wage increases and bonuses -- SO THAT more can go into front line services and paying down debt.

BC Conservative Party leader John Cummins, wife Sue,
family members, and former party President Reed Elley

BOTH of those ideas are embraced by BC Conservatives.

Saturday morning, through occasional strong, yet respectful debate on proposed amendments to new policy, we completed the work needed to take our platform of common sense ideas to the electorate next spring.

John Cummins was given a mandate to continue as leader -- and then gave a powerful speech -- that electrified the room with the heartfelt passion of the words he delivered.

And then in the afternoon, despite the loss of John van Dongen, the spirit of the membership remained high as we elected a new party executive and board.

New BC Conservative Party President Al Siebring

Elected as the President was long-time radio news broadcaster, and North Cowichan Councilor, Al Siebring.  Christine Clarke, who ran as a candidate for the BC Conservative Party in Port Moody - Coquitlam earlier this year, was elected to the Vice Presidents position.  Lambert Leung will continue in his role as Treasurer, while Linda Bellamy becomes Secretary.

I met many great people on Friday, and Saturday, who have a sincere desire to bring about positive change.  They were members who came from all across our province ... along with many of the women and men who are seeking to become candidates for the BC Conservative party.

That is who, and what, the party is ... and must remain.

This party IS NOT any one person (president, leader, or an MLA) -- and the membership of the BC Conservative Party showed that once again this weekend.

This is a party that British Columbians can and will support in next May's general election.

I'm Alan Forseth in Kamloops ... with the thoughts of one conservative.