Thursday, January 17, 2013

Foster says committee will determine fate of auditor general

By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: January 16, 2013 7:00 PM
 Premier Christy Clark wants B.C.'s financial watchdog to stay but the local MLA involved in the matter won't guarantee that outcome. Clark has stated she would like a legislative committee to reappoint John Doyle as auditor general for two years. "The committee will make that decision," said Eric Foster, Vernon-Monashee MLA and chairperson of the committee which recently decided not to renew Doyle's contract after six years on the job. The committee has been under fire to reconsider its decision and the matter was discussed by members Wednesday. "We had a good meeting," said Foster, who wouldn't provide any details expect that the group will gather again Friday. The committee consists of three Liberals and two New Democrats and it's been suggested that one of the Liberals voted not to retain Doyle because he has been critical of the government. Reappointment must be unanimous among the committee. To avoid future controversy, Clark has proposed a change to legislation so auditor generals are appointed for eight years and there is no chance for renewal. "That's the standard across the country," said Foster. Foster has been criticized for chairing the committee determining Doyle's fate when Doyle had expressed concerns about financial documents Foster filed about renovations to his constituency office. Foster has stated he wasn't aware of a letter Doyle wrote about his renovation expenses.

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