YOUR LETTERS MLAs represent all

I certainly appreciate the columns Todd Whitcombe has been contributing on proportional representation and the responses from some of your readers like John Warner.

Mr. Warner shares much the same thoughts as other constituents who believe that as MLAs we are “beholden to (our) party line.” This is certainly not the case for the B.C. Liberals. Shirley Bond, myself and my caucus colleagues have the freedom to vote as we see fit, with the caveat of “no surprises.” In other words, if we feel strongly about a certain bill before the house, we inform our caucus and our house leader prior to the vote taking place. I have witnessed this practice on several occasions since I’ve been a member of the legislature.

The B.C. Liberals are a coalition party of fiscal conservatives, centrists, liberals and conservatives – all who share the fundamental belief that we are free enterprisers. We are able to approach a wide range of topics and issues with diverse opinions and suggestions within our party and our caucus, and effectively collaborate to move these issues forward. Our caucus meetings can be lively as my caucus colleagues introduce their varied life experiences into the discussions. This is what effective politics is all about – sharing ideas around common values to arrive at solu- tions. We work as a team.

As a politician, my job provides me the time to access a broad range of information the average voter is not able to access nor would have the time to look into. It is my job to represent the interests of my constituents – not just B.C. Liberals or free enterprisers but all constituents, advocacy groups, unions, and yes, Greens, NDP and others regardless of political affiliation, and make my decisions based upon their input, the information I have access to and my life experiences and values.

I introduce these decisions and ideas to my “team” (B.C. Liberals) and work as a team to provide British Columbians with the services needed based upon a number of factors including our ability to pay. If you feel you haven’t been heard, come on in and talk to me. We may end up disagreeing but I will always try to provide you with the reasons why.

In my view, those jurisdictions that have proportional representation have resulted in large and expensive government, constant stalemates and reduced capacity to respond to public issues.

Mike Morris, MLA, Prince George-Mackenzie Unfortunately, there are times when my safety is in jeopardy; when the unexpected happens like encountering loose dogs.

Last Friday afternoon, I was headed to Tim Hortons on Victoria. I was just turning the corner when a small, unleashed dog went after my guide dog’s face and neck. It was growling and barking aggressively.

Thankfully ,there was no physical injury to Aiken, my dog, but still this type of encounter can ruin a guide dog’s career.

One of my previous dogs was viciously attacked by an unleashed dog. My dog was unable to work again, and had to be retired.

The cost for one of these dogs is approximately $50,000 US. This includes training and vet costs. Also, the time and energy it takes for training staff to find a dog that suits my physical needs, home and work environment, and that matches my pace can take up to a year.

I wish that people would understand that no dog is completely under control unless they are leashed. Prince George has a leash bylaw, unless you are in a posted dog park area.

I really appreciate those pet owners who follow the rules for everyone’s sake. Thank you to those people who give my dog a wide berth to allow him to do his job safely. Jen McEachen Prince George