National

Tributes to John Horgan as B.C. New Democrat members are sworn in

Darpan News Desk The Canadian Press, 13 Nov, 2024 04:27 PM

Former British Columbia premier John Horgan loomed large over the swearing-in ceremony Wednesday for 47 New Democrat members of the legislature, a day after his death.

Ambassador to Germany and former British Columbia premier John Horgan died at the age of 65, after his third bout with cancer.

Horgan served as B.C.'s New Democrat premier for five years before stepping down in 2022, then was appointed ambassador last year.

Horgan, known before becoming premier as a take-no-prisoners, often angry opposition politician, transformed into a compassionate, big-hearted, easygoing leader who would say being in government put a spring in his step as opposed to the drudgery of opposition.

Songhees Nation elder Butch Dick started the ceremony with a prayer song and offered words of sympathy for the family of Horgan, who died Tuesday at the age of 65 after a third battle with cancer.

Dick said Horgan was a "friend of the people," while Legislature Clerk Kate Ryan-Lloyd paid tribute to Horgan for his service to the people of B.C.

"I feel like he's here with us," said Premier David Eby, adding that Horgan would likely be laughing and cheering the loudest.

Eby said he thinks about Horgan's "amazing work," and the personal sacrifices he made on behalf of the people of the province.

Langford-Highlands MLA Ravi Parmar wore a Victoria Shamrocks lacrosse team jersey to honour his longtime friend and mentor who was a lacrosse player and faithful follower of the Shamrocks.

Garry Begg, whose 21-vote victory in Surrey-Guildford gave the NDP a one-seat majority government, was given a standing ovation by friends and his NDP colleagues.

The NDP majority in the 93-seat legislature was only confirmed after recounts that took place weeks after the Oct. 19 election.

The B.C. Conservatives won 44 seats, and the Greens two.

Swearing-in ceremonies for the Greens and B.C. Conservatives were held Tuesday at the legislature.

Eby is set to introduce his new cabinet Monday.

He said earlier he would recall the legislature for a short sitting to elect a Speaker.

Prev Next

MORE National ARTICLES

Supreme Court upholds rules on air passenger compensation in win for consumers

On Friday, the country's highest court unanimously dismissed an appeal by a group of airlines that challenged Canada's passenger rights charter. Air Canada, Porter Airlines Inc. and 16 foreign appellants had argued that the Air Passenger Protection Regulations launched in 2019 violate global standards and should be rendered invalid for trips into and out of the country.

Supreme Court upholds rules on air passenger compensation in win for consumers

City of Surrey completes cleanup project

The City of Surrey says it has completed a cleanup project in the Nicomekl River in South Surrey. It says abandoned or wrecked vessels, rafts and associated garbage was all pulled from the river.

City of Surrey completes cleanup project

Weekend training exercises at Metrotown mall

Mounties in Burnaby are telling the public not to be alarmed as emergency responders conduct training exercises at a major shopping mall. Police say fire, police and emergency responder presence will be visible at Metrotown during eight evenings this month and next.

Weekend training exercises at Metrotown mall

Leaders spread out around the province as week two of campaigning in B.C. continues

Politicians are continuing to promote their promises across British Columbia as the provincial election campaign nears its midway point. British Columbia's election day is on Oct. 19.

Leaders spread out around the province as week two of campaigning in B.C. continues

Beyond the Stereotypes: A Deep Dive into the International Student Experience

The narrative around international students in Canada is further complicated by prevalent stereotypes, which can unfairly depict them as contributors to housing shortages and job competition rather than recognizing their vital role in the country’s educational and economic landscape. We delve into the personal stories of three international students who share their experiences and challenges in this increasingly complex environment.

Beyond the Stereotypes: A Deep Dive into the International Student Experience

Industry minister echoes Shopify calls to boost ambition in Canada

Canada's industry minister has thrown his support behind a call from one of Shopify Inc.'s leaders for the country to get more ambitious. Among the buzziest talks was one from Shopify president Harley Finkelstein, who told the audience on opening night that he had noted a lack of ambition in Canada that he likened to a "600-pound beaver in the room."