Thursday, July 02, 2009
Contact Leonard Krog today on BC Rail secret deal
.
It's the secrecy. If the BCR-CN deal is such a great deal, as Gordo says, why is the deal still secret?
After 5 years, on July 14, 2009, certain new benefits are all set up to roll into CN pockets, such as a virtual kingdom of BC Rail properties ... and another 60 years' of renewable lease with no increased costs for almost 1,000 years. Items like that. Big province-changing items.
And if B.C. did receive $1Billion, did anyone see the photo op with Gordo holding up the big cardboard cheque for all to see? No. No we didn't.
If British Columbia had a functioning Opposition, they would long ago have insisted that the government show us the deal. That's what Oppositions do. They're supposed to speak on behalf of the people. To defend us, when governments won't.
Now, at the 11th hour, the BC Opposition must act. They won't, of course, until the citizens push and shove them, telling them what needs to be done (if THEY hope to survive politically).
The BC Rail deal is before BC Supreme Court, for gosh sakes. And Gordo's Gang will try to keep the BC Rail deal secret until after the critical 5-year anniversary date when certain new, sweeping benefits come into play. Must the citizens of British Columbia go to the UN for protection?
The sensible, practical, parliamentary thing is for Leonard Krog, lawyer and Opposition critic for Attorney-General matters, to take action. Krog on our behalf must seek an injunction demanding that the Campbell Government:
* SHOW US THE BCRAIL-CN DEAL. Surely that's basic contract law: 2 parties agree a deal so both parties must SEE the deal, right?
* The injunction must also STOP ANY FURTHER BENEFITS ROLLING OUT INTO CN POCKETS UNTIL WE ARE SURE THAT THE DEAL IS FAIR TO THE PEOPLE OF B.C. Surely that's basic law, too.
* FREEZE THE DEAL UNTIL B.C. CITIZENS ARE ASSURED THAT NO WRONGFUL OR CRIMINAL ACTS FORMED PART OF THE NEGOTIATIONS.
* Freeze the BCR-CN deal until the people of B.C. decide on whether they wish to repossess their railway. Rumour has it that there's a one-time-only option for that, as of July 14, 2009 ... Such an opportunity may never happen again.
So please: contact Krog. Tell him to stand up for British Columbia.
- BC Mary.
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
Dear Islander,
Thanks for your comment, which I saw as it passed through the moderation phase. I should have mentioned that aspect ...
I wrote 3 times to tell Leonard Krog about the necessity of launching an injunction and received absolutely NOTHING in reply - not even the annoying auto-response thing. So at that point, I began contacting some of his associates and eventually got a bit of help. They said they were working on the BC Rail Case.
But I must tell you this: when I asked if they had a plan for July 14, 2009 when such outrageous gifts will be showered upon CN at BC's expense, they went all quiet, except to start quibbling about whether it was July 2 (they said) or July 14 or July 15. Lynx helped with irrefutable references (CN being one of them) and then they went completely quiet.
About 4 times I asked: does the Opposition have a plan? No response.
They did tell me, right off the bat, that they couldn't undertake an injunction because of the cost. I replied immediately that I would ask on my blog for $$$-contributions, remembering how eagerly people had offered to donate when we first talked about setting up blogs to keep people informed about the BCRail Case.
No response whatever to that.
Which is why I say that Citizens must jump in here and start pushing and shoving to get this do-nothing BC Opposition to do its duty. And by the way ... speaking of $$$ ... didn't the Opposition say they would be donating all their surplus salaries (the ones they voted for themselves), to worthy causes? Well, Leonard Krog and Carole James need to be told that THIS is the worthiest cause. Btw, I cc'd Carole James with my first letter to Krog and she sent an immediate auto-thing which I call their "Go play on the freeway" message. That's all.
Perhaps phone calls are best. But we absolutely must keep trying. Thanks for reporting in! Good luck, everybody. - BC Mary.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The incoming comments are so good, I'll try to post some of them here on the main page until the blogger problems are fixed. In this comment below, Leah describes very clearly why we as responsible citizens must push the BC Opposition into action! Of course the Opposition can do an injunction. Don't let them kid us. - BC Mary.
Leah has left a new comment on your post "Contact Leonard Krog today on BC Rail secret deal":
Mary,
I phoned the number in Carole's auto-response...and got a person that said the NDP can't do an injunction?!
I replied that they are about the only ones who can, and must!
To that I received this number:
250-387-3655
That is the NDP Legislature Caucus number. I suggest we blitz it until we get a sensible response!
They can't do it? OMG...who can, who will??
Sorry, upset.
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
Well done, Leah!!! Here's her latest report:
_____________________________________________
Leah has left a new comment on your post "Contact Leonard Krog today on BC Rail secret deal":
Morn'n Mary,
Well, it's been a semi-busy morning...here's what I sent today, both as a main document and cc to Mr. Krog and Carole James.
Dear Mr. Krog,
As a fellow citizen of this Province whose concern level has now become "high-extreme" - I am writing to you in what is probably our last hope, to respectfully ask that you request an injunction in BC Supreme Court, against any further transfer of assets of BC Rail to CN Rail. Until Gordon Campbell produces ALL documents related to this incident, we have no way of knowing whether or not wrongful or criminal acts formed part of the negotiations. In all honesty I suspect that may be the case, otherwise this email issue wouldn’t be in court right now.
Mr. Krog we are running out of time… July 14, 2009 is the date rumored to be our last chance of repossession, and it’s the date of further asset transfer by way of all waterfront properties from North Vancouver to Squamish being transferred to CN Rail for the sum of one dollar. I realize Sir, that this is a "rumor", but ALL rumors are based on fact at some point - and the easiest way to put the matter to rest is to have the current government produce documents that *should *have been produced at the time of sale. The *people *of the Province owned BC Rail, we are asking nothing more than is our right to know. One might even consider it an obligation, as it relates to our future generations.
It is truly sad that the citizens of this Province should have to fight to get this information, or that we should have to fight to get the attention of our Opposition party to start an injunction – but it appears that we do.
Please Mr. Krog, I hope my trust has not been misplaced in you – and time is now very, very short.
I phoned Carole's constituency office and ticked off the lady there, but she gave me the number to the NDP caucus in Victoria - so I phoned that one too! Guess what? They took my name and number. Any bets on a return phone call from either one?
So two letters, two calls...and I'll be doing it all over again tomorrow too. (Wonder if they'll consider it harrassment?)
Just thought I'd drop this on you so that you know for sure we're still trying to protect what we have left, and that your words have not fallen on deaf ears, nor have they been spoken in vain.
_____________________________________________________
By the way, everyone: it's not just the North Vancouver to Squamish lands which are up for grabs. Please refer to my posting for June 28, 2009 headed BCRail Lands ... Attention please! which lists ALL the lands, right up to Fort St John, Fort St James, Deas Lake, etc., a veritable kingdom. - BC Mary.
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
Here comes Koot from The Kootenays with his usual shy, restrained comments about the state of the province he loves:
To those who are supposed to represent ME,
This letter is primarily addressed to Leonard Krog in his capacity as Justice Critic for the Loyal (to whom?) Opposition. The Attorney General of the Gordon Campbell Liberal government is theoretically the peoples' advocate, but it has become apparent that Wally Oppal was more of a personal counsel to Mr. Campbell and I expect the same or worse from Mr. DeJong. Therefore the only person who could possibly represent the "legal" interests of the people of BC, unable to afford to hire their own "personal" representation, must be Mr. Krog.
We citizens of this province are at a disadvantage in even understanding the BC Rail deal and the amazing combination of a Kabuki Play and Ptomkin Village that is the still not underway BC Rail Trial - officially known as HMTQ v. Basi, Basi and Virk. With the ongoing apparent collusion of the RCMP, the Can West/Global exuses for a media, the awesome power of the Public Affairs Bureau (which seems to consist of more and better paid [by us] journalists and media manipulators than the entire press of British Columbia) and the apparent obstruction of justice and refusal to comply with disclosure by the Premier's Office of Gordon Campbell the citizens of British Columbia have little recourse other than to DEMAND that Mr. Krog apply for an injunction to prevent any more transfer of assets to Canadian National until the following has been complied with in regards to the STILL SECRET transfer of BC Rail to CN:
We want you Mr. Krog to immediately ask for an injunction halting the BC Rail secret deal until the following conditions are met:
* open the secret agreement for people to see,
* stop the release of further gifts to CN,
* give people time to study the agreement and decide on the options,
* freeze the agreement until it can be shown that it was legally negotiated, and it is proven that no wrongful criminal acts formed part of the negotiation.
* Insure that CN has itself complied with the terms of the deal applicable to them selves (for example rumor has it that 600 new rail cars were to be provided and have not been)
The current government has been conducting a fire sale of assets to its corporate "friends" for eight years and undoubtably will try to sell off or give away everything left in the next four years. However right now this injunction is the number one priority for an opposition worthy of its name, as it seems that CN will receive more goodies like miles of water front real estate from North Vancouver to Squamish for a DOLLAR and also be free of accountability for their pitiful operation of the railroad itself and possible failure to live up to the terms of the deal.
Perhaps these are just rumors - MAKING THE DEAL PUBLIC WOULD CLEAR THIS UP! If Mr. Campbell continues to refuse to share with his constituents the terms of this supposedly wonderful deal for BC, one can only surmise that there are reasons why!
I live in solid NDP territory both federally and locally, but even here more and more life time NDP members are considering another political alternative that isn't the BC Liberals, Greens or the current version of the NDP. This is not a threat, it is just the reality and a sign of the disappointment we have suffered as a result of watching Gordon Campbell spend eight years destroying what was truly once the "Best Place on Earth" with hardly a question from the opposition since it grew larger than just Jenny and Joy!
I beg you to remember where you come from, remember Tommy Douglas and Dave Barrett and STAND UP FOR THE PEOPLE OF BC and STOP ANY FURTHER TRANSFERS OF ASSETS TO CN BY THE ONLY MEANS WE CAN THINK OF - A TEMPORARY INJUNCTION UNTIL AT LEAST THE CONDITIONS LISTED ABOVE ARE MET!
Injunctions are not only meant to be used against the people and their interests in the common good!
Canada under Harper and BC suffering under Campbell are like the last standing stubborn remnants of a now almost totally discredited world view represented by Thatcherism, Reaganism, Pinochet and such and if anyone should see this and fight against it, one would expect it to be the party descended from the CCF and Tommy Douglas - remember who your party is (or was) supposed to be and whom it IS supposed to represent, PLEASE!
KootCoot
of the House of Infamy
http://houseofinfamy.blogspot.com/
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
Oh. And Koot didn't feel so good about that auto-reply thingy either:
===================================
On Jul 2, 2009, at 1:19 PM, master troll wrote:
Carole,
AUTO-REPLY isn't good enough - you and your party have to DO SOMETHING about this outrage known as the Super Secret BC Rail Giveaway NOW!
KootCoot
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
Over at The Tyee yesterday, where "ChrisB" was speaking on another B.C. issue mired in secrecy, the case of Carrier Lumber vs. Province of B.C., I recognized a kindred spirit who is not willing to shrug off an issue of public interest. So I left a comment on The Tyee inviting ChrisB to drop in at The Legislature Raids. Here is what he says about Leonard Krog, MLA for Nanaimo, and leading light in the BC Opposition:
ChrisB has left a new comment on your post "Contact Leonard Krog today on BC Rail secret deal":
Responding to a post at TheTyee. Like 99.x% of the public, I've almost no knowledge* of what has been or is at stake in this matter. If valuable lands (and waterfront property is decidedly valuable) are about to be transferred to CN, then the public should have the entire story.
I too have emailed Ms. James and Mr. Krog many times about my own issues. Always received the same computer generated reply. Despite living in Vancouver, I have been, unannounced, to Mr. Krog's office in Nanaimo twice and met with him (the second time quite recently).
The conversations were polite but unproductive. He even questioned whether it might be time for me to simply let my issues go.
*ChrisB, surely you know about the unprecedented police raid on the B.C. Legislature on Dec. 28, 2003 and wondered what that was all about? Well ... this is what it's all about. The Legislature Raids got started over 3 years ago, on a Tyee thread, because some of us realized even then that there was a cover-up in progress. - BC Mary.
________________________________________________________________
ChrisB, in what you say, I recognize the Leonard Krog and the Opposition which we've all come to know and despair of. I can almost hear him quietly suggesting that you "let your issues go" which would save him SUCH a lot of bother.
In my view, Krog is not a bad person of any evil intent but he is a weak person and sometimes being weak is the same as being bad.
In seeking this injunction to open up the secret BCRail-CN agreement, we're making a rational dutiful request to which no citizen could possibly object. On the contrary, it's a step which I guarantee, every honest citizen will applaud. Why wouldn't the Opposition leap to assist? Why doesn't Krog understand the necessity of actually SEEING the contract which took so much out of B.C., and will take more on July 14 if we don't call a halt. The injunction is there for that purpose.
This is the test, Mr Krog. If you and the BC Opposition can't step up and speak for the people of British Columbia at this critical moment, you are dirt beneath our feet. I think that even Carole James will understand that. - BC Mary.
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
Curly ... I nearly fell off my swivel-chair laughing. Quick, make our day: what did you tell that lady? ...
Curly has left a new comment on your post "Contact Leonard Krog today on BC Rail secret deal":
In the midst of all this, a woman claiming to represent the NDP had the nuts to contact me soliciting a donation. Well, I guess I'll wait and see how well they stand up for the public interest on this issue...
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
It's the secrecy. If the BCR-CN deal is such a great deal, as Gordo says, why is the deal still secret?
After 5 years, on July 14, 2009, certain new benefits are all set up to roll into CN pockets, such as a virtual kingdom of BC Rail properties ... and another 60 years' of renewable lease with no increased costs for almost 1,000 years. Items like that. Big province-changing items.
And if B.C. did receive $1Billion, did anyone see the photo op with Gordo holding up the big cardboard cheque for all to see? No. No we didn't.
If British Columbia had a functioning Opposition, they would long ago have insisted that the government show us the deal. That's what Oppositions do. They're supposed to speak on behalf of the people. To defend us, when governments won't.
Now, at the 11th hour, the BC Opposition must act. They won't, of course, until the citizens push and shove them, telling them what needs to be done (if THEY hope to survive politically).
The BC Rail deal is before BC Supreme Court, for gosh sakes. And Gordo's Gang will try to keep the BC Rail deal secret until after the critical 5-year anniversary date when certain new, sweeping benefits come into play. Must the citizens of British Columbia go to the UN for protection?
The sensible, practical, parliamentary thing is for Leonard Krog, lawyer and Opposition critic for Attorney-General matters, to take action. Krog on our behalf must seek an injunction demanding that the Campbell Government:
* SHOW US THE BCRAIL-CN DEAL. Surely that's basic contract law: 2 parties agree a deal so both parties must SEE the deal, right?
* The injunction must also STOP ANY FURTHER BENEFITS ROLLING OUT INTO CN POCKETS UNTIL WE ARE SURE THAT THE DEAL IS FAIR TO THE PEOPLE OF B.C. Surely that's basic law, too.
* FREEZE THE DEAL UNTIL B.C. CITIZENS ARE ASSURED THAT NO WRONGFUL OR CRIMINAL ACTS FORMED PART OF THE NEGOTIATIONS.
* Freeze the BCR-CN deal until the people of B.C. decide on whether they wish to repossess their railway. Rumour has it that there's a one-time-only option for that, as of July 14, 2009 ... Such an opportunity may never happen again.
So please: contact Krog. Tell him to stand up for British Columbia.
- BC Mary.
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
Dear Islander,
Thanks for your comment, which I saw as it passed through the moderation phase. I should have mentioned that aspect ...
I wrote 3 times to tell Leonard Krog about the necessity of launching an injunction and received absolutely NOTHING in reply - not even the annoying auto-response thing. So at that point, I began contacting some of his associates and eventually got a bit of help. They said they were working on the BC Rail Case.
But I must tell you this: when I asked if they had a plan for July 14, 2009 when such outrageous gifts will be showered upon CN at BC's expense, they went all quiet, except to start quibbling about whether it was July 2 (they said) or July 14 or July 15. Lynx helped with irrefutable references (CN being one of them) and then they went completely quiet.
About 4 times I asked: does the Opposition have a plan? No response.
They did tell me, right off the bat, that they couldn't undertake an injunction because of the cost. I replied immediately that I would ask on my blog for $$$-contributions, remembering how eagerly people had offered to donate when we first talked about setting up blogs to keep people informed about the BCRail Case.
No response whatever to that.
Which is why I say that Citizens must jump in here and start pushing and shoving to get this do-nothing BC Opposition to do its duty. And by the way ... speaking of $$$ ... didn't the Opposition say they would be donating all their surplus salaries (the ones they voted for themselves), to worthy causes? Well, Leonard Krog and Carole James need to be told that THIS is the worthiest cause. Btw, I cc'd Carole James with my first letter to Krog and she sent an immediate auto-thing which I call their "Go play on the freeway" message. That's all.
Perhaps phone calls are best. But we absolutely must keep trying. Thanks for reporting in! Good luck, everybody. - BC Mary.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The incoming comments are so good, I'll try to post some of them here on the main page until the blogger problems are fixed. In this comment below, Leah describes very clearly why we as responsible citizens must push the BC Opposition into action! Of course the Opposition can do an injunction. Don't let them kid us. - BC Mary.
Leah has left a new comment on your post "Contact Leonard Krog today on BC Rail secret deal":
Mary,
I phoned the number in Carole's auto-response...and got a person that said the NDP can't do an injunction?!
I replied that they are about the only ones who can, and must!
To that I received this number:
250-387-3655
That is the NDP Legislature Caucus number. I suggest we blitz it until we get a sensible response!
They can't do it? OMG...who can, who will??
Sorry, upset.
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
Well done, Leah!!! Here's her latest report:
_____________________________________________
Leah has left a new comment on your post "Contact Leonard Krog today on BC Rail secret deal":
Morn'n Mary,
Well, it's been a semi-busy morning...here's what I sent today, both as a main document and cc to Mr. Krog and Carole James.
Dear Mr. Krog,
As a fellow citizen of this Province whose concern level has now become "high-extreme" - I am writing to you in what is probably our last hope, to respectfully ask that you request an injunction in BC Supreme Court, against any further transfer of assets of BC Rail to CN Rail. Until Gordon Campbell produces ALL documents related to this incident, we have no way of knowing whether or not wrongful or criminal acts formed part of the negotiations. In all honesty I suspect that may be the case, otherwise this email issue wouldn’t be in court right now.
Mr. Krog we are running out of time… July 14, 2009 is the date rumored to be our last chance of repossession, and it’s the date of further asset transfer by way of all waterfront properties from North Vancouver to Squamish being transferred to CN Rail for the sum of one dollar. I realize Sir, that this is a "rumor", but ALL rumors are based on fact at some point - and the easiest way to put the matter to rest is to have the current government produce documents that *should *have been produced at the time of sale. The *people *of the Province owned BC Rail, we are asking nothing more than is our right to know. One might even consider it an obligation, as it relates to our future generations.
It is truly sad that the citizens of this Province should have to fight to get this information, or that we should have to fight to get the attention of our Opposition party to start an injunction – but it appears that we do.
Please Mr. Krog, I hope my trust has not been misplaced in you – and time is now very, very short.
I phoned Carole's constituency office and ticked off the lady there, but she gave me the number to the NDP caucus in Victoria - so I phoned that one too! Guess what? They took my name and number. Any bets on a return phone call from either one?
So two letters, two calls...and I'll be doing it all over again tomorrow too. (Wonder if they'll consider it harrassment?)
Just thought I'd drop this on you so that you know for sure we're still trying to protect what we have left, and that your words have not fallen on deaf ears, nor have they been spoken in vain.
_____________________________________________________
By the way, everyone: it's not just the North Vancouver to Squamish lands which are up for grabs. Please refer to my posting for June 28, 2009 headed BCRail Lands ... Attention please! which lists ALL the lands, right up to Fort St John, Fort St James, Deas Lake, etc., a veritable kingdom. - BC Mary.
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
Here comes Koot from The Kootenays with his usual shy, restrained comments about the state of the province he loves:
To those who are supposed to represent ME,
This letter is primarily addressed to Leonard Krog in his capacity as Justice Critic for the Loyal (to whom?) Opposition. The Attorney General of the Gordon Campbell Liberal government is theoretically the peoples' advocate, but it has become apparent that Wally Oppal was more of a personal counsel to Mr. Campbell and I expect the same or worse from Mr. DeJong. Therefore the only person who could possibly represent the "legal" interests of the people of BC, unable to afford to hire their own "personal" representation, must be Mr. Krog.
We citizens of this province are at a disadvantage in even understanding the BC Rail deal and the amazing combination of a Kabuki Play and Ptomkin Village that is the still not underway BC Rail Trial - officially known as HMTQ v. Basi, Basi and Virk. With the ongoing apparent collusion of the RCMP, the Can West/Global exuses for a media, the awesome power of the Public Affairs Bureau (which seems to consist of more and better paid [by us] journalists and media manipulators than the entire press of British Columbia) and the apparent obstruction of justice and refusal to comply with disclosure by the Premier's Office of Gordon Campbell the citizens of British Columbia have little recourse other than to DEMAND that Mr. Krog apply for an injunction to prevent any more transfer of assets to Canadian National until the following has been complied with in regards to the STILL SECRET transfer of BC Rail to CN:
We want you Mr. Krog to immediately ask for an injunction halting the BC Rail secret deal until the following conditions are met:
* open the secret agreement for people to see,
* stop the release of further gifts to CN,
* give people time to study the agreement and decide on the options,
* freeze the agreement until it can be shown that it was legally negotiated, and it is proven that no wrongful criminal acts formed part of the negotiation.
* Insure that CN has itself complied with the terms of the deal applicable to them selves (for example rumor has it that 600 new rail cars were to be provided and have not been)
The current government has been conducting a fire sale of assets to its corporate "friends" for eight years and undoubtably will try to sell off or give away everything left in the next four years. However right now this injunction is the number one priority for an opposition worthy of its name, as it seems that CN will receive more goodies like miles of water front real estate from North Vancouver to Squamish for a DOLLAR and also be free of accountability for their pitiful operation of the railroad itself and possible failure to live up to the terms of the deal.
Perhaps these are just rumors - MAKING THE DEAL PUBLIC WOULD CLEAR THIS UP! If Mr. Campbell continues to refuse to share with his constituents the terms of this supposedly wonderful deal for BC, one can only surmise that there are reasons why!
I live in solid NDP territory both federally and locally, but even here more and more life time NDP members are considering another political alternative that isn't the BC Liberals, Greens or the current version of the NDP. This is not a threat, it is just the reality and a sign of the disappointment we have suffered as a result of watching Gordon Campbell spend eight years destroying what was truly once the "Best Place on Earth" with hardly a question from the opposition since it grew larger than just Jenny and Joy!
I beg you to remember where you come from, remember Tommy Douglas and Dave Barrett and STAND UP FOR THE PEOPLE OF BC and STOP ANY FURTHER TRANSFERS OF ASSETS TO CN BY THE ONLY MEANS WE CAN THINK OF - A TEMPORARY INJUNCTION UNTIL AT LEAST THE CONDITIONS LISTED ABOVE ARE MET!
Injunctions are not only meant to be used against the people and their interests in the common good!
Canada under Harper and BC suffering under Campbell are like the last standing stubborn remnants of a now almost totally discredited world view represented by Thatcherism, Reaganism, Pinochet and such and if anyone should see this and fight against it, one would expect it to be the party descended from the CCF and Tommy Douglas - remember who your party is (or was) supposed to be and whom it IS supposed to represent, PLEASE!
KootCoot
of the House of Infamy
http://houseofinfamy.blogspot.com/
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
Oh. And Koot didn't feel so good about that auto-reply thingy either:
===================================
On Jul 2, 2009, at 1:19 PM, master troll wrote:
Carole,
AUTO-REPLY isn't good enough - you and your party have to DO SOMETHING about this outrage known as the Super Secret BC Rail Giveaway NOW!
KootCoot
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
Over at The Tyee yesterday, where "ChrisB" was speaking on another B.C. issue mired in secrecy, the case of Carrier Lumber vs. Province of B.C., I recognized a kindred spirit who is not willing to shrug off an issue of public interest. So I left a comment on The Tyee inviting ChrisB to drop in at The Legislature Raids. Here is what he says about Leonard Krog, MLA for Nanaimo, and leading light in the BC Opposition:
ChrisB has left a new comment on your post "Contact Leonard Krog today on BC Rail secret deal":
Responding to a post at TheTyee. Like 99.x% of the public, I've almost no knowledge* of what has been or is at stake in this matter. If valuable lands (and waterfront property is decidedly valuable) are about to be transferred to CN, then the public should have the entire story.
I too have emailed Ms. James and Mr. Krog many times about my own issues. Always received the same computer generated reply. Despite living in Vancouver, I have been, unannounced, to Mr. Krog's office in Nanaimo twice and met with him (the second time quite recently).
The conversations were polite but unproductive. He even questioned whether it might be time for me to simply let my issues go.
*ChrisB, surely you know about the unprecedented police raid on the B.C. Legislature on Dec. 28, 2003 and wondered what that was all about? Well ... this is what it's all about. The Legislature Raids got started over 3 years ago, on a Tyee thread, because some of us realized even then that there was a cover-up in progress. - BC Mary.
________________________________________________________________
ChrisB, in what you say, I recognize the Leonard Krog and the Opposition which we've all come to know and despair of. I can almost hear him quietly suggesting that you "let your issues go" which would save him SUCH a lot of bother.
In my view, Krog is not a bad person of any evil intent but he is a weak person and sometimes being weak is the same as being bad.
In seeking this injunction to open up the secret BCRail-CN agreement, we're making a rational dutiful request to which no citizen could possibly object. On the contrary, it's a step which I guarantee, every honest citizen will applaud. Why wouldn't the Opposition leap to assist? Why doesn't Krog understand the necessity of actually SEEING the contract which took so much out of B.C., and will take more on July 14 if we don't call a halt. The injunction is there for that purpose.
This is the test, Mr Krog. If you and the BC Opposition can't step up and speak for the people of British Columbia at this critical moment, you are dirt beneath our feet. I think that even Carole James will understand that. - BC Mary.
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
Curly ... I nearly fell off my swivel-chair laughing. Quick, make our day: what did you tell that lady? ...
Curly has left a new comment on your post "Contact Leonard Krog today on BC Rail secret deal":
In the midst of all this, a woman claiming to represent the NDP had the nuts to contact me soliciting a donation. Well, I guess I'll wait and see how well they stand up for the public interest on this issue...
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Comments:
<< Home
Hello,
After sending two emails (June 22 and June 29/09) to Leonard Krog's office (cc to Carole James), I have only received an automated message that Ms. James' office received the email. There has been no message from Mr. Krog's office.
I am forwarding messages to my local MLA, however, am beginning to wonder about the intent of all MLAs in standing up for openness and integrity.
After sending two emails (June 22 and June 29/09) to Leonard Krog's office (cc to Carole James), I have only received an automated message that Ms. James' office received the email. There has been no message from Mr. Krog's office.
I am forwarding messages to my local MLA, however, am beginning to wonder about the intent of all MLAs in standing up for openness and integrity.
# posted by 
: July 2, 2009 at 8:17 a.m.
: July 2, 2009 at 8:17 a.m.
Mary,
I phoned the number in Carole's auto-response...and got a person that said the NDP can't do an injunction?!
I replied that they are about the only ones who can, and must!
To that I received this number:
250-387-3655
That is the NDP Legislature Caucus number. I suggest we blitz it until we get a sensible response!
They can't do it? OMG...who can, who will??
Sorry, upset.
I phoned the number in Carole's auto-response...and got a person that said the NDP can't do an injunction?!
I replied that they are about the only ones who can, and must!
To that I received this number:
250-387-3655
That is the NDP Legislature Caucus number. I suggest we blitz it until we get a sensible response!
They can't do it? OMG...who can, who will??
Sorry, upset.
# posted by : July 2, 2009 at 8:40 a.m.
: July 2, 2009 at 8:40 a.m.
the public sector unions investment in canadian national railway shares thru the british columbia investment management company holder of 80 billion dollars of union pension dollars and with CEO doug pearce for the liberals in control of bcIMC may be exerting some of their enormous clout. Consider the possibility that bcIMC may have purchased CN shares just prior to the sale of BC Rail possibly some insider trading. This may not look to good for the Liberals but may also be uncomfortable for the NDP and their public sector union brothers, and may explain why the NDP have been dragging their feet. BC Rail workers pension plan thru bcIMC may have been investors in their own demise.
# posted by : July 2, 2009 at 9:02 a.m.
: July 2, 2009 at 9:02 a.m.
Morn'n Mary,
Well, it's been a semi-busy morning...here's what I sent today, both as a main document and cc to Mr. Krog and Carole James.
Dear Mr. Krog,
As a fellow citizen of this Province whose concern level has now become "high-extreme" - I am writing to you in what is probably our last hope, to respectfully ask that you request an injunction in BC Supreme Court, against any further transfer of assets of BC Rail to CN Rail. Until Gordon Campbell produces ALL documents related to this incident, we have no way of knowing whether or not wrongful or criminal acts formed part of the negotiations. In all honesty I suspect that may be the case, otherwise this email issue wouldn’t be in court right now.
Mr. Krog we are running out of time… July 14, 2009 is the date rumored to be our last chance of repossession, and it’s the date of further asset transfer by way of all waterfront properties from North Vancouver to Squamish being transferred to CN Rail for the sum of one dollar. I realize Sir, that this is a "rumor", but ALL rumors are based on fact at some point - and the easiest way to put the matter to rest is to have the current government produce documents that *should *have been produced at the time of sale. The *people *of the Province owned BC Rail, we are asking nothing more than is our right to know. One might even consider it an obligation, as it relates to our future generations.
It is truly sad that the citizens of this Province should have to fight to get this information, or that we should have to fight to get the attention of our Opposition party to start an injunction – but it appears that we do.
Please Mr. Krog, I hope my trust has not been misplaced in you – and time is now very, very short.
I phoned Carole's constituency office and ticked off the lady there, but she gave me the number to the NDP caucus in Victoria - so I phoned that one too! Guess what? They took my name and number. Any bets on a return phone call from either one?
So two letters, two calls...and I'll be doing it all over again tomorrow too. (Wonder if they'll consider it harrassment?)
Just thought I'd drop this on you so that you know for sure we're still trying to protect what we have left, and that your words have not fallen on deaf ears, nor have they been spoken in vain.
Well, it's been a semi-busy morning...here's what I sent today, both as a main document and cc to Mr. Krog and Carole James.
Dear Mr. Krog,
As a fellow citizen of this Province whose concern level has now become "high-extreme" - I am writing to you in what is probably our last hope, to respectfully ask that you request an injunction in BC Supreme Court, against any further transfer of assets of BC Rail to CN Rail. Until Gordon Campbell produces ALL documents related to this incident, we have no way of knowing whether or not wrongful or criminal acts formed part of the negotiations. In all honesty I suspect that may be the case, otherwise this email issue wouldn’t be in court right now.
Mr. Krog we are running out of time… July 14, 2009 is the date rumored to be our last chance of repossession, and it’s the date of further asset transfer by way of all waterfront properties from North Vancouver to Squamish being transferred to CN Rail for the sum of one dollar. I realize Sir, that this is a "rumor", but ALL rumors are based on fact at some point - and the easiest way to put the matter to rest is to have the current government produce documents that *should *have been produced at the time of sale. The *people *of the Province owned BC Rail, we are asking nothing more than is our right to know. One might even consider it an obligation, as it relates to our future generations.
It is truly sad that the citizens of this Province should have to fight to get this information, or that we should have to fight to get the attention of our Opposition party to start an injunction – but it appears that we do.
Please Mr. Krog, I hope my trust has not been misplaced in you – and time is now very, very short.
I phoned Carole's constituency office and ticked off the lady there, but she gave me the number to the NDP caucus in Victoria - so I phoned that one too! Guess what? They took my name and number. Any bets on a return phone call from either one?
So two letters, two calls...and I'll be doing it all over again tomorrow too. (Wonder if they'll consider it harrassment?)
Just thought I'd drop this on you so that you know for sure we're still trying to protect what we have left, and that your words have not fallen on deaf ears, nor have they been spoken in vain.
# posted by : July 2, 2009 at 9:38 a.m.
: July 2, 2009 at 9:38 a.m.
Responding to a post at TheTyee. Like 99.x% of the public, I've almost no knowledge of what has been or is at stake in this matter. If valuable lands (and waterfront property is decidedly valuable) are about to be transferred to CN, then the public should have the entire story.
I too have emailed Ms. James and Mr. Krog many times about my own issues. Always received the same computer generated reply. Despite living in Vancouver, I have been, unannounced, to Mr. Krog's office in Nanaimo twice and met with him (the second time quite recently).
The conversations were polite but unproductive. He even questioned whether it might be time for me to simply let my issues go.
I too have emailed Ms. James and Mr. Krog many times about my own issues. Always received the same computer generated reply. Despite living in Vancouver, I have been, unannounced, to Mr. Krog's office in Nanaimo twice and met with him (the second time quite recently).
The conversations were polite but unproductive. He even questioned whether it might be time for me to simply let my issues go.
# posted by : July 2, 2009 at 10:49 a.m.
: July 2, 2009 at 10:49 a.m.
In the midst of all this, a woman claiming to represent the NDP had the nuts to contact me soliciting a donation. Well, I guess I'll wait and see how well they stand up for the public interest on this issue...
# posted by : July 2, 2009 at 2:54 p.m.
: July 2, 2009 at 2:54 p.m.
Hi Mary,
Here is my reply (I have omitted only names):
"Despite my last correspondence notifying your office that I have a long-standing policy of not supporting ANY organization that utilizes intrusive marketing techniques like this, I MAY consider donating to the NDP again if, and only if, the NDP immediately seeks and injunction to stop the transfer of assets between BC Rail and CN until such time as the legality of these transfers can be unequivocally demonstrated.
When these conditions have been met, I may consider donating to the NDP again.
Do not continue to solicit me for funds via intrusive unsolicited marketing techniques. I will support the NDP or not based solely on their performance and my personal means. Continued prodding will backfire and land you on my spam list. That would be most unfortunate and entirely unnecessary."
I have to say I'm REALLY chuffed.
Here is my reply (I have omitted only names):
"Despite my last correspondence notifying your office that I have a long-standing policy of not supporting ANY organization that utilizes intrusive marketing techniques like this, I MAY consider donating to the NDP again if, and only if, the NDP immediately seeks and injunction to stop the transfer of assets between BC Rail and CN until such time as the legality of these transfers can be unequivocally demonstrated.
When these conditions have been met, I may consider donating to the NDP again.
Do not continue to solicit me for funds via intrusive unsolicited marketing techniques. I will support the NDP or not based solely on their performance and my personal means. Continued prodding will backfire and land you on my spam list. That would be most unfortunate and entirely unnecessary."
I have to say I'm REALLY chuffed.
# posted by : July 2, 2009 at 4:22 p.m.
: July 2, 2009 at 4:22 p.m.
Second attempt as the Gods must have eaten my first.
MLA Krog was the best thing since sliced bread when he managed to get a large number of documents released, compilied and made available for the public viewing on line at no expense to us but of course his party had to pay for the work. Now he is no longer a nice guy on this blog. He and all other MLA's have offices. For folks on the mid lsland drop in. My MLA is a couple of blocks from our place and most always available. The caucus office is right there in the Legislative Annex. The Opposition had a office in Robson Square last time I looked. My MLA used to be Ms. James and both her constituency office and her Legislative Assistant answered any emails I sent that way.
But the ones who are messing us up is Gordo and his band of elves. He loves it when folks take shots at the Opposition so even though some of us want instant results, the court is doing their thing.
Maybe just maybe the Opposition has a few tricks up their sleeves. Governments often put land up for sale, both federally and provincially. I'm not that sure that even Gordo would hand over all the land to CN for little or no money. In the military there used to be an expression about folks who were couch lawyers and instant legal experts. They were called Barrack Room lawyers. Drop a few eamils off to the Liberal team players, they may or may not respond but even they can count.
MLA Krog was the best thing since sliced bread when he managed to get a large number of documents released, compilied and made available for the public viewing on line at no expense to us but of course his party had to pay for the work. Now he is no longer a nice guy on this blog. He and all other MLA's have offices. For folks on the mid lsland drop in. My MLA is a couple of blocks from our place and most always available. The caucus office is right there in the Legislative Annex. The Opposition had a office in Robson Square last time I looked. My MLA used to be Ms. James and both her constituency office and her Legislative Assistant answered any emails I sent that way.
But the ones who are messing us up is Gordo and his band of elves. He loves it when folks take shots at the Opposition so even though some of us want instant results, the court is doing their thing.
Maybe just maybe the Opposition has a few tricks up their sleeves. Governments often put land up for sale, both federally and provincially. I'm not that sure that even Gordo would hand over all the land to CN for little or no money. In the military there used to be an expression about folks who were couch lawyers and instant legal experts. They were called Barrack Room lawyers. Drop a few eamils off to the Liberal team players, they may or may not respond but even they can count.
# posted by : July 2, 2009 at 9:11 p.m.
: July 2, 2009 at 9:11 p.m.
http://harveyoberfeld.ca/blog/keeping-the-e-mails-scandal-alive/#comments
# posted by : July 3, 2009 at 12:46 a.m.
: July 3, 2009 at 12:46 a.m.
Krog is a small time, backwood's lawyer. Westlaw hasn't published any of his cases. During the Barrett years, the party attracted heavy hitters - like Alex McDonald - from the legal community. Now, the NDP is happen to get Neighbourhood Watch goofs like Mike Farnsworth and Jenny Kwan (Criminologist).
I saw a poster in Vancouver yesterday, asking activists to "restore' the NDP. I don't know who those people are, but only the brain dead believe that Carol James is a winner.
Krog is certainly not a vehicle for meaningful change. Too bad the party doesn't have a good replacement.
I saw a poster in Vancouver yesterday, asking activists to "restore' the NDP. I don't know who those people are, but only the brain dead believe that Carol James is a winner.
Krog is certainly not a vehicle for meaningful change. Too bad the party doesn't have a good replacement.
# posted by : July 3, 2009 at 6:55 a.m.
: July 3, 2009 at 6:55 a.m.
BC Mary says that the NDP plead "poverty" regarding their ability to pursue an injunction to halt the further transfer of BC Rail (the people's) assets to CN.
"They (the NDP) did tell me, right off the bat, that they couldn't undertake an injunction because of the cost "
It is clear that the Opposition can't seem to get any answers about anything in the rare stage managed sittings of the Legislature, with their laughable 15 minuter or whatever Question (but not necessarily 'Answer') Period.
But if the representatives of a large portion of the citizens (the loyal - to whom? - opposition) can't AFFORD to utilize the so-called justice system to hold the government accountable - that certainly says something about the ability (or lack of same) for the average citizen to obtain justice through the system!
Justice for the Corporate Elite and the Rich - everybody else just remit your taxes and SHUT THE F*** UP! Heavy donors to the BC liaRs, ONLY, may request attention to their concerns.
"They (the NDP) did tell me, right off the bat, that they couldn't undertake an injunction because of the cost "
It is clear that the Opposition can't seem to get any answers about anything in the rare stage managed sittings of the Legislature, with their laughable 15 minuter or whatever Question (but not necessarily 'Answer') Period.
But if the representatives of a large portion of the citizens (the loyal - to whom? - opposition) can't AFFORD to utilize the so-called justice system to hold the government accountable - that certainly says something about the ability (or lack of same) for the average citizen to obtain justice through the system!
Justice for the Corporate Elite and the Rich - everybody else just remit your taxes and SHUT THE F*** UP! Heavy donors to the BC liaRs, ONLY, may request attention to their concerns.
Ok...my morning mischief is done for the day. Same as yesterday, and probably the same response.
Mary, I did find this while looking up "injunction"...and it sounds like something we should be looking at (as far as wording goes, though there is a difference between injunction and interim injunction. I believe it's the latter that we want, and as we may only have one chance to get it right, I think the distinction is important..anyway...):
Seeking interim injunctions to prevent proposed sale/lease of BC Rail lands, and assets, until the challenge to the validity of all documents as related to the above are determined to be in the best interests of the citizens of the Province of British Columbia — Public interest standing requiring (i) action raising serious legal question; (ii) genuine legal interest in resolution of question; (iii) no other reasonable, effective manner in which question may be brought to Court.
This sounds like what we're asking for - what do you think?
Mary, I did find this while looking up "injunction"...and it sounds like something we should be looking at (as far as wording goes, though there is a difference between injunction and interim injunction. I believe it's the latter that we want, and as we may only have one chance to get it right, I think the distinction is important..anyway...):
Seeking interim injunctions to prevent proposed sale/lease of BC Rail lands, and assets, until the challenge to the validity of all documents as related to the above are determined to be in the best interests of the citizens of the Province of British Columbia — Public interest standing requiring (i) action raising serious legal question; (ii) genuine legal interest in resolution of question; (iii) no other reasonable, effective manner in which question may be brought to Court.
This sounds like what we're asking for - what do you think?
# posted by : July 3, 2009 at 8:31 a.m.
: July 3, 2009 at 8:31 a.m.
Open Letter to Carole James, Leonard Krog and all of the BC NDP MLAs:
RE: Interim Injunction to Prevent the Transfer of BC Rail Lands to CN Rail:
Doing nothing means that you are complicit in the transfer.
To put it in a social worker's terms (something Ms. James should clearly understand): it is as though you suspect your partner of abusing your child - all the signs are there - but you avert your eyes and close your ears because to think that it is actually happening to your child is more than you can bear. So, you leave your child to be raped by your partner behind the closed door. Your child is forever changed for the worse, and you let it happen.
When you became an MLA, you swore an oath to stand for the people of this province. That oath demands that you open the door to expose the secret BC Rail deal for the people of BC. Democracy demands your action. Though you "sit in opposition" you were elected and are amply paid to act, not sit.
Either you act swiftly and efficiently with the full weight of the party to have an interim injuction placed upon the the BC Rail land transfer, or I pull my support from the NDP. I have had my fill of our BC Liberal government and an ineffective, do-nothing opposition.
SharingIsGood
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RE: Interim Injunction to Prevent the Transfer of BC Rail Lands to CN Rail:
Doing nothing means that you are complicit in the transfer.
To put it in a social worker's terms (something Ms. James should clearly understand): it is as though you suspect your partner of abusing your child - all the signs are there - but you avert your eyes and close your ears because to think that it is actually happening to your child is more than you can bear. So, you leave your child to be raped by your partner behind the closed door. Your child is forever changed for the worse, and you let it happen.
When you became an MLA, you swore an oath to stand for the people of this province. That oath demands that you open the door to expose the secret BC Rail deal for the people of BC. Democracy demands your action. Though you "sit in opposition" you were elected and are amply paid to act, not sit.
Either you act swiftly and efficiently with the full weight of the party to have an interim injuction placed upon the the BC Rail land transfer, or I pull my support from the NDP. I have had my fill of our BC Liberal government and an ineffective, do-nothing opposition.
SharingIsGood
# posted by : July 3, 2009 at 11:31 a.m.
: July 3, 2009 at 11:31 a.m. << Home
