On April 6, B.C. Premier Christy Clark was questioned about the fundraising dinners she has been hosting; her table companions each paid $10,000, and often double that, for the privilege of breaking bread with her.
The premier was quick to respond that she is bound by rules that are accountable and transparent, and had no knowledge of how much anyone paid to sit at her table. When Ms. Clark further stated that she never asked what anyone had paid, it sounded like her philosophy is simply don’t ask, don’t tell.
She concluded by saying that she enjoys meeting ordinary people at events and functions, everyone is treated equally, whether they pay or not. As always, there was something misty and twisty about Christy Clark’s evasive rhetoric, and three weeks later it has come to light that part of that fundraising money may well have gone directly into the premier’s pocket.
The B.C. Liberal Party has admitted to “topping-up” her salary with what they call an annual stipend of $50-grand; consequently, a fourth conflict of interest charge has now been laid against her since she took over the leadership in 2011.
I can remember that “accountable and transparent” phrase being used by one Stephen Joseph Harper on several occasions, and I can remember what happened to him last October. Likewise, I can remember that “don’t ask, don’t tell” philosophy being frequently used by one William Jefferson Clinton, and can also remember his scandal-plagued presidency that disintegrated after he was caught lying.
I always remember my station in life, and definitely fit the category of “ordinary people,” but I cannot remember ever receiving an invitation to eat with one Christina Joan Clark. I’m acutely aware that there is no such thing as a free lunch, but I’m just a soul whose intentions are good; oh Lord, please don’t let me be misunderstood.
Bernie SmithParksville