Another member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) has departed from the British Columbia Conservative caucus, citing grievances with Kerry-Lynne Findlay’s leadership. Rosalyn Bird, representing Prince George-Valemount, has declared her decision to become an Independent MLA.
During an interview with CBC News, Bird expressed her preference to uphold her principles and values as an Independent rather than compromise by staying with the B.C. Conservatives. She highlighted a divergence in direction, indicating a shift towards a more right-leaning stance by both Findlay and the caucus leadership.
Bird emphasized that this shift does not resonate with the majority of British Columbians who seek collaboration and unity among politicians, rather than division and confrontation. The departure of Bird follows announcements made by Ian Paton and Peter Milobar to establish a new political party. Bird has not confirmed her intent to join their initiative at this early stage.
At a press conference in Vancouver, Findlay acknowledged the likelihood of further departures from the caucus, stating that those leaving might not share the vision of prosperity and hope presented by the B.C. Conservatives. Bird had previously declined Findlay’s request to resign her seat to facilitate Findlay’s entry into the B.C. Legislature through a by-election.
The decision to leave was also influenced by allegations raised by Paton regarding a job offer in exchange for resignation, although Bird refrained from commenting on whether a similar offer was made to her. Findlay denied such allegations, asserting that no job offers were extended to MLAs in return for stepping down.
Reann Gasper, an MLA for Abbotsford-Mission, announced her resignation to enable Findlay to run in a by-election. Gasper was subsequently appointed as the caucus deputy chief of staff, with her salary yet to be finalized. Findlay clarified that while discussions were held regarding stepping aside, no offers were made in exchange for any actions.
Premier David Eby characterized the B.C. Conservatives as an “extremist right-wing party” and expressed his lack of surprise at another MLA’s departure. He dismissed Findlay’s proposal for an early recall of the legislature, focusing instead on addressing the trade war with the U.S. Eby did not specify a timeline for calling a by-election to facilitate Findlay’s candidacy in Abbotsford-Mission.