Former Liberal cabinet minister named ICBC chair

“I know it will be a challenge. ICBC is a very large organization and does have an impact on people’s lives.

BARRY PENNER FORMER LIBERAL MLA, CHILLIWACK-HOPE

VICTORIA — Former Liberal MLA Barry Penner is the new chairman of the Insurance Corporation of B.C.

Penner will start March 31 on a three-year term, ICBC announced Tuesday.

“I’m looking forward to it, but I know it will be a challenge,” Penner said Tuesday in an interview. “ICBC is a very large organization and does have an impact on people’s lives.”

Penner was B.C.’s longest-serving environment minister, and also held the roles of Attorney General and Minister of Aboriginal Relations during 16 years as the Liberal MLA for Chilliwack-Hope. He resigned in early 2012 to join a law firm, and then briefly moved to Burma. Most recently, the provincial government had tapped him to review a contentious harbour dock proposal on Pender Island.

ICBC has been grappling with rising rates, caused in part by the increased cost of claims from crashes as well as fraud. The government has expressed disappointment at the continued rate hikes, and has in the past sharply criticized the Crown auto insurance agency for unacceptable proposals to raise rates before looking within the corporation for savings.

“Mr. Penner’s deep commitment to public and community service led him to accept the government’s request that he take on this challenging position,” said Transportation Minister Todd Stone. “His extensive experience with government and the private sector will make him an excellent fit for this important role.”

Penner said he realizes the corporation has work to do.

“I think the government is really looking for me to try and look for efficiencies and make sure information is accurate,” he said.

Penner replaces accountant Ronald Olynyk, who had served as interim ICBC chairman since December after the retirement of Walter Gray.