Lawyer says no proof of corruption needed at former clerk's trial at legislature
Darpan News Desk The Canadian Press, 02 Mar, 2022 04:16 PM
A lawyer for Craig James says there is no proof of corruption needed for a guilty verdict at the trial of the former clerk of the legislative assembly.
Gavin Cameron accused special prosecutors of trying to "rewrite history" in his closing arguments at James's trial in B-C Supreme Court on charges of fraud and breach of trust.
They relate to his claim of a 258-thousand-dollar retirement allowance, his role in the purchase and storage of a wood splitter and trailer and his personal expense claims.
But Cameron argues James's claims were overseen by multiple responsible individuals who never once suggested there was fraud or crime.
Joël Lightbound told reporters in Ottawa today that federal COVID-19 measures, such as vaccination mandates for travellers and civil servants, need to be re-evaluated and the public needs a clear road map for when restrictions will be fully lifted.
The premier announced last week that such a plan was coming and that the first step would be ending Alberta's vaccine passports to access non-essential businesses such as restaurants and bars.
The throne speech comes two weeks ahead of the government's budget, which is expected to include a financial accounting of last fall's floods and mudslides that devastated communities, farms and highways throughout southern B.C.
Ravi Kahlon, the minister of jobs, economic recovery and innovation, said eight out of every 10 new openings in the next decade will require post-secondary education or skills training, which points to where the economy is headed and what is needed to get ready.
Kevin Falcon, who was elected party leader on Saturday, said Andrew Wilkinson has decided to resign his seat in Vancouver-Quilchena, clearing a possible path to the legislature.
There are 23,739 active cases of COVID-19 in the province, and 306,419 people who tested positive have recovered. Of the active cases, 987 COVID-positive individuals are in hospital and 141 are in intensive care. The remaining people are recovering at home in self-isolation.
