[LabComm] James Calls on New ICBC CEO to Reject Privatization of Crown Corp

[BC NDP NEWSWIRE]

-- Studies show private auto insurance leads to higher rates --

NDP Leader Carole James today called on newly appointed ICBC CEO Paul Taylor to publicly disavow privatization as an option for the Crown Corporation.

"For three years, the only thing standing between Gordon Campbell and ICBC was Nick Geer, a Chair and CEO who successfully fought the government's plans," said James.  "Mr. Geer got the boot for keeping ICBC public, and keeping auto insurance rates among the lowest in the country.  Paul Taylor needs to show the same resolve and assure the public he's not there to do Gordon Campbell's bidding."

Formerly the Chair of Treasury Board and the past president of the BC Automobile Dealers Association, Mr. Taylor is one of the key architects of the BC Liberal privatization agenda, and a key player behind the failed scheme to sell the Coquihalla Highway and the government's sell off of BC Rail.

"Given Mr. Taylor's record, British Columbians have reason to be suspicious about his appointment to head up ICBC," said James.  "He should start his new job by building on the record of his predecessor and staking out a clear position against further privatization and for continued public ownership of this successful Crown Corporation.  Evidence from across the country is clear -- privatized auto insurance leads to higher rates.  BC can't afford that."

To unsubscribe or change your settings go to: http://www.e-2ve6y.signup.bc.ndp.ca/
-------------- next part --------------
An HTML attachment was scrubbed...
URL: <http://bcfed.net/pipermail/labcomm/attachments/20040921/8b287966/attachment.html>