Raise minimum wage and hold HST referendum soon: Carole James

WHISTLER – Hold the HST referendum as soon as possible, boost the minimum wage to $10 an hour – and get back to work in the legislature.

Delegates could be forgiven for thinking an election campaign was underway yesterday at the Union of B.C. Municipalities convention as NDP leader Carole James addressed the gathering with those suggestions.

“The HST referendum is really a victory for people and democracy, and whatever your views on the tax, and you certainly know mine, I think we can all agree on one thing – that that referendum needs to be held as soon as possible,” she told the crowd.

James also took the opportunity to outline her vision for British Columbia.

“I want British Columbia to be known as the place that does it right, that understands a strong economy, a just society and a healthy environment go hand in hand,” said James.

Her vision had four parts:

Meanwhile, delegates also learned the outcome of a vote taken this morning on whether the term of office for local politicians should be extended to four years from three.

In a vote of 354 to 280, the resolution for a four-year term was defeated. It was the second time such a resolution has been defeated at a UBCM.

“I think that is great,” said Whistler Coun. Ralph Forsyth, who spoke against the resolution.

Delegates also debated a resolution on whether helmets should be mandatory for small-wheel vehicles such as skateboards, tricycles and rollerblades.

“I oppose this resolution and I think it is too far-reaching,” said Tofino Coun. Michael Tilitzky.

“It is largely trying to control a demographic that is not represented in this room. How many of you are rolling, blading and skateboarding?

“Rather than trying to enforce something impossible, it is more important to educate people how to skateboard and how to rollerblade and how to use protective gears for elbows and knees.

“If you know how to use the equipment, then there is a very small chance you are going to injure yourself”

Lions Bay Mayor Brenda Broughton supported the resolution.

“I know of two instances in very tiny Lions Bay where the families have had to spend so much time and effort following a bicycle head injury . . . and a skateboard injury,” she said.

The resolution was defeated.

Tomorrow, Premier Gordon Campbell will address the convention, as will Green Party leader Jane Sterk and federal President of the Treasury Board and Minister for the Asia-Pacific Gateway Stockwell Day.