BY ARTHUR WILLIAMS
Local B.C. Liberals had a chance to assess the six candidates for the party leadership during an all-candidates debate Last Thursday in Prince George.
Approximately 200-250 people attended the event.
Candidates made opening and closing remarks, and answered five pre-selected questions — no questions were taken from the floor and candidates did not have a chance to engage each other in debate.
Christy Clark was an MLA from 1996 to 2005. Having been outside of government for the last six years has given her a different perspective on issues like the HST.
“I’ve been sitting outside of government and you have to shake your head at some of the decisions,” Clark said.
George Abbott said his focus is on rebuilding public trust and engaging voters in government.
“We will need all of the two-and-a-half years we have left in this mandate to rebuild trust,” Abbott said. “We need, as a caucus, to get out and meet with anyone who is willing to meet with us.”
Kevin Falcon billed himself as a leader who can get things done.
“Politicians are good at talking, but not so good at executing,” Falcon said. “We’ve got big opportunities, we need to make them happen.”
Mike de Jong said his focus is on free enterprise and small, transparent government.
“The engine that drives this province is private enterprise,” de Jong said. “I’m tired of people who are opposed to everything. I’d like for us to be a party that says what it’s for.”
Dr. Moira Stilwell said her focus is on education and investing in people.
“We must focus on building a knowledge economy. People will be our most renewable assets,” Stilwell said. “There is an iceberg ahead of us and that is a vast shortage of skilled workers.”
Newcomer Ed Mayne said his leadership role in business has prepared him for the premier’s seat.
“I am the only one here who is not affiliated with the government,” Mayne said. “Politicians are worried about the next election, leaders are worried about the next generation.”