Sadness, scandal and corruption

Dear Editor: Sometimes a decision is difficult, while in other instances it is a “no-brainer.” Liberal incumbent, Dan Ashton states that he should get my vote based on his track record (Herald, April 9).

The underfunding of education was orchestrated by the Liberals. Last May, while the school board was preparing to close three schools, Ashton was on CBC Radio. Asked about education funding shortfalls he responded that “most school boards were dealing with it.” Three weeks later, after massive outcries from parents, Ashton was “pleased to announce” funding to save two of the doomed schools.

The “rural schools” funding Dan miraculously pulled from government’s coffers is only temporary. This means the likelihood of further school closures in our area is high. But, do not worry folks, Dan knows that the school board will deal with it. The track record of this government contains many closed schools.

Funding to public education will finally see an increase, thanks to The Supreme Court. This government’s track record includes taxpayer funded lawyers to stop adequate funding for schools.

“Quick Wins,” “BC Rail Sale,” “Health Firings,” “Pay For Access,” “Triple Delete” and, let’s not forget they took bus passes away from B.C. citizens with disabilities while spending $500 a day for Christy’s photographer and half-a-million flying around on her private jet.

This government’s track record is packed with sadness, scandal and corruption.

They ran on a “Debt Free BC.” Debt has increased. Another promise was to pay down both BC Ferries and BC Hydro debt and obligations. Both those corporations are in worse financial shape. LNG? You guessed it, no progress there either unless you consider the shell game of plopping our tax dollars in an account and calling it the “LNG Prosperity Fund.”

Former Social Credit MLA and journalist Rafe Mair stated they “doubled the provincial debt and ruined our former crown jewel, BC Hydro, and, having bankrupted it in all but name, committed it to a further $10 billion for Site C for power we don’t need and for which we have no customers.” This government’s track record on the economy includes promises they didn’t keep or didn’t even intend to keep.

If Dan wants me to base my decision on this track record, it’s a “no-brainer”. Kevin Epp Penticton