Cabinet campaign conceived

Melissa Lampman - Kamloops This Week Published: May 16, 2009

Having just been elected as MLA for Kamloops-North Thompson, vying for a cabinet position in the new Liberal government isn’t a top priority for Terry Lake. But a local political-science professor has launched a letter-writing campaign in a bid to push the former Kamloops mayor into a seat at the cabinet table. Thompson Rivers University’s Derek Cook has circulated e-mails throughout the campus and the community, asking people to contact Premier Gordon Campbell and voice their support for Lake as a cabinet minister. “The question is, does Dr. Terry Lake have the educational background and political experience to do well as a cabinet minister?” Cook asked. “And the answer, I would think, would be yes. “If others in the community have that opinion, then they should let the premier know.” Lake, clearly flattered someone would think of him as cabinet material, said things happen in their own time and way and he isn’t pushing for a position. “I’m used to playing on a team and, within that, you have to play a role,” said the rookie MLA. “At this point, I think the premier has to look at who was elected, where they’re from and the skill sets everyone has before he makes those kinds of decisions.

“I have no preconceived notions about what my role will be — I want to become a good MLA first and foremost.” However, Cook said, with the probability longtime incumbent Kevin Krueger will remain a minister, having two MLAs in cabinet is better for the community. “Decisions are made in the cabinet and in the Office of the Premier, so it’s simply the case that you’re in the loop much more as a cabinet member rather than a backbencher,” Cook said. “If you’re not in the cabinet, you’re much less able to represent everyone in your constituency.” Nevertheless, Lake said he is more than happy to serve his constituents as MLA, but would gladly serve in other capacities — if that’s the party’s will. “When you’re a candidate, they get to know you very well, so they know what my strengths are,” he said, noting his term as mayor, his executive role within the Union of B.C. Municipalities, teaching at a university level and being a veterinarian. “It’s early days yet. “I’m not sure what will happen, to be honest — we’ll just wait and see.

But Cook said now is the time to voice opinions since the re-elected premier can make appointments at his discretion at any time.Those who wish to see Lake appointed can contact the Office of the Premier at premier@gov.bc.ca.