Independent MLAs defend support for B.C. FOI Bill after conservative backlash

Two former BC Conservative Party MLAs now sitting as Independents say they voted according to their consciences after helping the governing BC NDP cut off debate on proposed changes to B.C.’s freedom of information laws during a late-night legislative session.

Independent MLAs Amelia Boultbee and Elenore Sturko voted alongside 46 NDP members in a 3 a.m. vote to move the legislation forward. The Conservatives, three other Independents and two BC Green Party MLAs opposed the move.

Former Conservative colleagues criticized the pair, accusing them of acting as part of an “NDP farm team” and abandoning efforts to hold the government accountable over the proposed amendments to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.

Boultbee, who left the Conservative caucus last October, said she supported parts of the bill on their merits and denied suggestions she was aligning herself with the NDP.

According to The Canadian Press report,Sturko said the legislation would have advanced regardless of her vote and that she carefully reviewed the amendments before supporting the motion.

Critics of the bill argue the changes could reduce government transparency and make public records harder to access. The government says the legislation is intended to modernize the system and improve efficiency in handling information requests.

One proposed change would allow the B.C. privacy commissioner to authorize public bodies to disregard requests considered abusive or disruptive to operations.