After two terms serving as North Coast MLA, Prince Rupert's Gary Coons has decided not to run again.
“I am very honoured to have served the people of the North Coast as their MLA. Getting to know the people of this region and the issues that matter to them has been an incredible learning experience that I will never forget. I’d like to thank the people of the North Coast for putting their trust in me. Whether we were working to keep the Skeena River fish farm free, fighting for action to address the Highway of Tears, standing up for the Sacred Headwaters, campaigning to stop the HST, holding firm against the Enbridge pipeline and crude oil tanker traffic, or addressing ferry fares, none of the work I’ve done would have been possible without the support of the people of this region,” said Coons.
“It’s been exciting to work with my North Coast constituents, New Democrat leader Adrian Dix and my colleagues in caucus. I’m proud to be part of such a strong, principled and dedicated team of people who have the best interests of British Columbia at heart, and I’m looking forward to seeing them bring forward positive change in 2013.”
NDP leader Adrian Dix praised Coons for the work he has done in his time in the NDP caucus.
“In the legislature Gary has distinguished himself as an effective champion of our coastal waters and communities, drawing attention to how they are essential to B.C.’s economy and environment,” said Dix.
“In the wake of the Queen of the North tragedy, Gary's quest for answers helped bring about improvements in marine safety. His knowledge of B.C.’s coastline, and commitment to the people who live there, were on full display when I recently joined him for a tour of the Douglas Channel.””
“He passionately demonstrated the importance of the tanker moratorium, now under threat from the Enbridge pipeline proposal, as we navigated through these beautiful but challenging waters,” continued Dix. “Gary has been a powerful voice in making the case that the Northern Gateway Pipeline puts at risk both the economy of the North Coast region, and its marine wildlife and ecosystem. He may be leaving public office, but we all know he will continue to be a staunch defender of B.C.’s best interests.”
The President of the Prince Rupert Teachers’ Union Joanna Larson, and Prince Rupert City Councillor Jennifer Rice are both seeking the nomination for the North Coast BC NDP in the next provincial election at a meeting to be held on January 26th.
“We have 2 excellent, high calibre candidates and I am excited for either candidate to represent the North Coast and bring positive change to BC,” said Coons.” It has been an honour and privilege to have had the opportunity to serve and represent those on the north and central coast.”
Larson and Rice are both eager to represent the region and make positive change for the residents of the North Coast.
