IN THE NEWS: Lobbying concerns

Monday Magazine
February 11, 2010

Regular Monday readers know that the proponents of the Victoria International Marina project have been working hard behind the scenes to sell their dream to various provincial and federal politicians who might have some pull with the regulatory agencies responsible for giving it the green light. Readers also know that the project proponents are already well-connected to the parties in power and politicians whose word could make or break the plan.

Victoria NDP MP Denise Savoie has heard concerns about these connections loud and clear and, on January 29, she sent a letter to Canada’s Commissioner of Lobbying of Canada. In that letter, Savoie notes, “I am writing to draw your attention to allegations in Victoria of political insider lobbying that have been raised with respect to the proposed Victoria International Marina. They have been widely reported in the local media and, as a result, it is my view that they warrant investigation by your office so that the public can be reassured that this important development is being evaluated appropriately.”

Savoie concludes, “Citizens need to have confidence that their government is conducting itself to the highest standard and these allegations are eroding that confidence.”

In other Victoria International Marine news, as reported by The Tyee’s Andrew MacLeod, the developers were at the Seattle Boat Show to lure potential slip-owners and taking $10,000 deposits for space in the marina that has yet to be approved by either the federal or provincial governments.

Despite the absence of regulatory assurance the project will proceed—especially in light of rumblings that the strata council of the Royal Quays condominiums may move forward to assert riparian rights over the foreshore in front of their building—the marina’s website claims, “In 2011, the yachting world will welcome the Victoria International Marina.”