Gary Coons

The British Columbia government knew the public might not like its plans to restructure B.C. Ferries, but it had a plan that relied on working with “trusted reporters” and friends of the B.C. Liberals to sell the idea.

“Communications regarding the restructuring will be a significant challenge,” observed the 33-page communications plan, every page of which is marked “confidential” in large letters. Read more »

With eight weeks before the next provincial election, I believe many British Columbians are concerned about their jobs and the services they need to get through tough times.

But just as we saw in both 2001 and 2005, the premier recently presented a litany of empty promises that do nothing to help BC families, seniors and students through difficult times. The question we all have to ask ourselves, after eight years of longer waitlists, overcrowded emergency rooms, larger class sizes and skyrocketing tuition fees ….should we believe him this time? Read more »

Last week New Democrats hammered the Campbell government for unfair liquor pricing policies that are driving many rural general stores to the brink of bankruptcy.

At issue is the fact that private liquor stores in urban areas get a 16 per cent discount on liquor, while rural general stores only get 10 per cent off. Read more »

North Coast MLA, Gary Coons rose in the Legislature Feb 11, to pay tribute to the late Jim Fulton.

Mr. Fulton was 58. He passed away just before Christmas on Dec. 20, after a three-year battle with cancer. He was Skeena’s Member of Parliament from 1979 until retiring from politics in 1993. Read more »

New Democrat Leader Carole James announced a plan today to stimulate job growth and the new Green economy through a new B.C. Green Bond investment.  The plan will also significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Read more »

The Campbell government is jeopardizing the future of a comprehensive marine plan for the north coast by refusing to come to the table, says North Coast MLA Gary Coons. Read more »

Last week’s federal budget missed an opportunity to adequately boost post-secondary funding and research activity to help our economy’s short-term rescue and long-term prosperity. Read more »

The development of a new closed-containment salmon farm has New Democrats excited about the future of the aquaculture industry in British Columbia, and disappointed that the Liberals don’t see it. Read more »

North Coast MLA and Ferries critic Gary Coons is calling for a judicial inquiry into the sinking of the Queen of the North after litigation between two Penticton teens and BC Ferries was dropped due to costs. Read more »

After a temporary two-month reduction in ferry fares, the Campbell government is hammering coastal communities with another fare hike that takes effect today.

New Democrat Ferries critic Gary Coons noted that it cost a driver and car $37.50 to travel on the major routes yesterday, but it will cost $56 today. On minor routes, a car and driver paid $22.50 yesterday, but today they will pay $33.55. Read more »