April 17, 2009Today Carole James reached a new level of desperation by committing to build the Evergreen Line – a project the BC Liberal government had already launched. But one look at the facts shows the NDP's embarrassing record on the Evergreen Line.
The NDP committed to build the Evergreen Line for the first time in the 1990s but never actually funded the project - breaking their promise to the Tri-Cities.
In fact, in 1999, NDP MLA Mike Farnworth stated in the Vancouver Sun (June 30/99):
- "Residents can be confident the latest Skytrain extension project ... will go ahead."
- "It's now all systems go."
- "You are going to see a massive amount of investment and reinvestment along that line."
These statements were patently dishonest. The NDP broke their promise and never proceeded to build the Evergreen Line.
It was the BC Liberals who announced in February that the $1.4-billion project would be built, in partnership with the federal government who contributed over $400 million. And it was the Carole James NDP who voted against the budget providing these funds.
And even with Ms. James’ attempts to repent for this dismal record by re-announcing the project today, senior members of her party still continue to oppose it. For example, NDP Mayor Derek Corrigan described the project as “a shameful waste of taxpayers’ money” (Burnaby Now, Feb. 6/08) and has yet to explain his statement.
Once again, Carole James is being dishonest with British Columbians, and needs to account for her party’s record.
