In this issue:
Remembrance Day reflections
Major disability-rights victory
Bill 31 + reconciliation debates
Island meetings & community issues
Coffee chats, door-knocking & local voices
I’d love to see you! Stop by my next
Meet & Greet☕:
Friday, December 5 ⏰ 10am-12pm
📍 Sidney Serious Coffee
102-2417 Beacon Avenue
On November 11th, I had the honour of joining those attending the Pender Island Rembrance Day Ceremony at the Royal Canadian Legion. It was a beautiful, clear, sunny day. The Pender Pipe Band and others welcomed us as we began the ceremony and placed wreaths at the nearby cenotaph. Now, more than ever, we need to remind ourselves of those who sacrificed their lives to enable us to enjoy our peaceful and prosperous lives in Canada. Lest we forget.
Rob with Sgt. At Arms Terry Macdonald
The next day, November 12th, was full of constituency meetings and events. It began in Sidney with a meeting on the draft updated Islands Trust policy statement. The revised statement is a huge undertaking with long-term implications for the protection and preservation of the special ecosystems on the Islands. In my view, there can never be enough consultation, given the implications of the proposed changes.
Later that morning, following other meetings, I met with a councillor from the Tsawout First Nation to discuss provincial issues affecting his Nation. I am very much looking forward to an upcoming meeting with all of Tsawout’s Chief and Council. We share many common interests, opportunities and challenges including health care 🚑 and housing 🏘️.
Later in the day I traveled to the Legislature to prepare for upcoming legislative debates and joined a meeting of the Legislature Administration and Management Committee to discuss budget items and planning.
In the evening, I went back to Sidney for a Chamber of Commerce mixer at our Constituency Office. I was happy to co-host with the Acting Executive Director, Jacquie Beland, as well as new members of their board. We welcomed a number of individuals to the office, including a new resident to the Peninsula who recently moved from the GTA to work in the manufacturing sector in Sidney, and representatives from the bank, insurance and real estate sectors. We had a good turnout, and it is a great way to stay connected on the issues that matter to the constituency. And, I would be remiss not to mention the delicious cheeses and snacks we munched on from The Farmer’s Daughter, here in Sidney.
On Thursday, November 13th, I travelled to Nanaimo to join Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction (SDPR), Sheila Malcolmson, to announce the end of spousal claw backs of disability payments in British Columbia – the first province in Canada to do so.
After years of non-stop community advocacy by folks like Brent Frain, Sonjia Grandhal and Jeff Leggat, initial policy work by the BC government, and a final push by negotiating removal of the claw back in our Green Cooperation and Responsible Government Agreement (CARGA) with the NDP – we did it! Starting December 1, 2025, couples in which both partners receive disability payments will now receive the same individual support allowance. Also, beginning January 1, 2026, all couples receiving disability assistance will be eligible for full annual earnings exemptions for each partner—allowing them to keep more of the money they earn.
There is much more work to be done to raise social assistance rates and disability rates, but the announcement November 13th is an important step on the path. Here is my brief speech.
On the way back from Nanaimo I had the privilege of meeting with Chief Cindy Daniels of Cowichan Tribes. We have many interests in common, including active pursuit of reconciliation in relation to dock management in the Southern Gulf Islands.
On a less happy note, Prime Minister Carney announced the federal government’s decision to fast-track the Ksi Lisims LNG export project. Whatever happened to elbows up? As my colleague MLA Jeremy Valeriote noted:
Ksi Lisims LNG is a foreign-owned, foreign-built fossil fuel project that will enrich U.S. billionaires while leaving British Columbians to bear the environmental and economic costs. We know Ksi Lisims LNG faces strong opposition from many First Nations and local communities, and we are concerned what fast-tracking and federal investment means for these communities. Prime Minister Carney’s government, like Premier Eby’s, is allowing climate solutions to take a backseat to resource development and fast-tracking.
The full statements of Jeremy and BC Green Leader Emily Lowan on Prime Minister Carney’s announcement are here.
Friday, November 14th, began with my monthly meeting on Pender Island with community members. One of the main topics of discussion was old growth logging in light of the release of Sierra Club’s report on old growth 🌳entitled “Closer to the Brink.” Click here for the news release and report.
In an interview on Sierra Club’s report, I emphasized the growing importance of the Phase 2 report by the independent Provincial Forest Advisory Council on old growth logging and other forest issues. Click here for PFAC’s Phase 1 report.
I spent the afternoon in meetings, including one on creating an efficient, effective and affordable 21st century public service, followed by another with the Ministry of Health’s Chief of Staff on pressing health care issues, and a third involving a progress review regarding the fallow deer problem on Mayne Island. Finally, I flew to Vancouver to attend the BC Green Party 🌿Annual General Meeting in Vancouver. A full day!
Monday November 17th, at an important meeting of the Special Committee on Democratic and Electoral reform, we worked hard to finalize our report due to be tabled in the BC Legislature and released before the end of the Fall Session. [The report was tabled on Wednesday, November 26th which I will discuss in the next newsletter]. This has been a herculean task and I want to thank again the almost 1000 presenters and submission writers who shared their ideas and experiences. 💡This input was hugely valuable to our deliberations.
Later, juxtaposed between meetings with Ministers and committee deliberations on Bill 31 —the Energy Statutes Amendment Act, 2025— I had the opportunity in Question Period to call the government to account on Indigenous justice. It is hard to believe that Indigenous women make up 4% of the population, yet 49% of women ♀ in provincial custody are Indigenous. Part of the concern is that the heavily criticized RCMP Critical Response Unit is deployed wherever there is opposition to fast-tracked resource and infrastructure projects.
Tuesday, November 18th, was a typical day in the life of an MLA when the Legislature is in session. It started with our daily Green 🌿caucus check-in when we mapped out the day: question period, statements from members, status of legislation, communication etc. As a bonus, I had the pleasure of beginning the day in the Legislature by introducing Mayne Island School students!
After question period, debate on Bill 31, regarding the North Coast Transmission Line, continued. This legislation will enable equity partnerships between BC Hydro and First Nations along the line, as well as enable government to manage the expansion of power demands for AI and cryptocurrency.
We continue to see a rising tide of anti-Indigenous racism, and part of the day was spent on preparing to address that issue more forcefully. Later I had lunch with MLA Scott McInnis to discuss tourism and Indigenous relations, met with Métis Nation representatives, reviewed constituency items with Minister Kahlon (visit to riding), Minister Popham (daycare), and Minister Wickens (Métis status), and finished the day lending support to my colleague Jeremy Valeriote as he proposed amendments to Bill 31 to increase oversight and transparency.
Wednesday, November 19th, was a busy day from dawn ‘til dusk. The issue that dominated the legislative day continued to be Bill 31, which ultimately passed with the Speaker breaking a tie vote. Our self-explanatory statement on passage of Bill 31 is reproduced below:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 19, 2025
BC Greens vote against Bill 31, the Energy Statutes Amendments Act
VICTORIA, B.C. – Statement from BC Green MLA for West Vancouver–Sea to Sky Jeremy Valeriote on voting against Bill 31, the Energy Statutes Amendments Act:
“Throughout the course of Bill 31’s progression through this House, the BC Greens proposed numerous amendments that would have improved the legislation—including measures to improve transparency and accountability; allow for open, clear criteria for allocation of electricity by a public utility; and, add heavy oil and bitumen pipelines to the list of rationed industries. The Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions rejected every single one. Now, Bill 31 falls short of providing the assurances British Columbians and BC Hydro ratepayers deserve.”
“The BC Greens want British Columbians to access this province’s clean energy advantage. However, the Premier and Minister have made it clear that the North Coast Transmission Line is being advanced primarily as a public subsidy for LNG projects, rather than as a long-term investment in BC’s clean energy future.”
“In addition, First Nations along Phase 3 of the North Coast Transmission Line have not been properly engaged or consulted. First Nations co-ownership should not be offered as a take-it or leave-it proposition for a project a government intends to push through against their wishes.”
“The bill also purports to establish an Electricity Allocation Framework, yet it only applies to some hand-picked sectors, and leaves all critical details to be set in regulation, behind closed doors by Cabinet. A real electricity allocation framework makes sure every kilowatt can be considered for its economic, social, environmental implications in the highest public interest, with climate considerations given the weight they deserve. With Bill 31 passed, now the government can use its discretion—with influence from lobbyists or industry pressures—on the decisions of who gets power and who doesn’t without any independent oversight.”
“Compounding this, this legislation now gives both Cabinet and BC Hydro even more authority at a time when BC Hydro’s track record on cost control raises serious concerns.”
“For these reasons, the BC Greens did not support Bill 31.”
Thursday, November 20th, saw a continuation of toxic racist conduct and political theatre in the Legislature attempting to undo years of work on reconciliation. The issue dominated Thursday in the House. Here is our statement:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
BC Greens Call on NDP to immediately implement Three-Point Reconciliation Plan with Opposition support
November 18, 2025
VICTORIA B.C. – The BC Greens are calling on the NDP government to implement a Three-Point Reconciliation Plan with Opposition support.
“Since the release of the Cowichan Title decision this past August, the issue of reconciliation, Aboriginal Title, and private fee simple title has been inflamed by this government’s inadequate response and opposition parties’ misinformation and disinformation,” said Rob Botterell, MLA for Saanich North and the Islands.
“When there are threats to progress on reconciliation such as these political responses, we must respond with immediate and proportionate action,” added Botterell. “We need to do much more. That’s why I am calling on the BC Government and opposition parties to support the implementation of a three-point plan that provides clarity and more timely proactive resolution of this issue.”
The BC Greens are calling on the government and opposition parties to support a three-step Reconciliation Plan that includes:
1. Activating the All-Party Committee on Aboriginal Affairs. In close consultation and collaboration with First Nations, the Committee would meet at least quarterly to review progress on resolution of the longstanding land question, among other matters related to advancing reconciliation in British Columbia.
2. Pursuing a judicial reference to the BC Court of Appeal to obtain an advisory opinion to clarify the status of private fee simple property ownership on lands subject to Aboriginal title. This reference could also clarify the scope of bona fide purchaser protections and establish a clear framework for reconciliation.
3. Calling on Party leaders, MLAs, and the Speaker to be accountable for enforcing existing rules on parliamentary language, and conducting a thorough review of the Standing Orders to strengthen prohibitions on anti-Indigenous and racist conduct.
The BC Greens emphasize that the core issue is the unresolved land question—one that has persisted for generations and has been mismanaged by this government before, and pounced on by opposition parties, as former BC Green MLA for Saanich North and the Islands previously warned.
“We have a significant, long-standing land question that must be resolved,” said Botterell. “The Select Standing Committee on Aboriginal Affairs should be doing this work. The future of reconciliation needs a forum and dialogue that requires each party to operate in good faith and talk through issues with respect rather than reaction.”
The BC Greens also believe a judicial reference could clarify how Aboriginal title coexists with private land ownership, define bona fide purchaser protections, and provide a clear framework for reconciliation—while avoiding the years-long uncertainty of the full appeals process to the Supreme Court of Canada.
“The Cowichan Nation did not seek to invalidate private fee-simple land titles, nor did the Court make any ruling that would remove people from their homes,” said Botterell. “An appeal would only delay clarity and let this issue fester. Private landowners should not be blamed for poor government consultation or for being misled. Indigenous peoples should not bear the resulting backlash.”
The BC Greens have sent a letter to the Speaker of the House calling for stronger accountability in the Legislature by ensuring Party leaders, MLAs, and the Speaker, enforce existing rules on parliamentary language.
“Unfortunately, the public conversation has become toxic, with trends that risk setting reconciliation back,” Botterell added. “That’s why we believe this three-point plan can reset the tone, reduce tensions, and allow the land question to be addressed in the legislature with First Nations in a depoliticized way.”
On Friday, November 20th, I enjoyed the best part of my role as MLA – meeting constituents. I held a coffee meet up at Brentwood Bay Empourium. I hope it’s my sparkling personality that brings folks out … but I know it’s really the amazing coffee, tea and Empourium baked goods we provide. These gatherings are a great opportunity to discuss a wide range of items. This week the topics covered forestry, extreme weather shelters for the homeless, the Cowichan Title decision, the deterioration of decorum and dignified conduct in the Legislature, the future of our economy, the impact of a new development on Verdier Avenue, and much more. Join us at a future coffee meet up - the next one is December 5th at Serious Coffee in Sidney!
After the meet up at Empourium, I was joined by folks for some door knocking in Brentwood. We received a warm welcome and it gave me a great opportunity to ask constituents we didn’t see at the Empourium what they would like me to focus on in 2026. Being driven by the priorities of my constituents is a key part of my MLA DNA. The funniest part of the morning was having a constituent ask one of the canvassers who joined me, “Why are you knocking on doors, is there an election on?” A big shout out to Brian Hayward and everyone who helped Brian organize a great day in the SNI constituency.
Late Breaking News – Prime Minister Carney and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith signed a Memorandum of Understanding to build a pipeline across BC to deliver oil to Asia. BC and Coastal First Nations were left out of the negotiation of the MOU. I will have much more to say on this announcement in my next newsletter.
November 20, 2025
Hon. Raj Chouhan
Speaker of the Legislative Assembly
Parliament Buildings
Victoria, BC
Re: Concerning Language and Behaviour of Members in the House
Mr. Speaker,
I am writing to formally request that you use the full authority of the Chair to preserve order and decorum in the Chamber, particularly regarding the increasing use of disrespectful and offensive language and behavior unbecoming of elected members of the Legislative Assembly.
Our Legislative Assembly is guided by a safe workplace policy and a reconciliation action plan –documents developed through your office that represent our collective commitment to fostering safety, respect, and inclusion. However, these commitments are only as strong as our willingness to uphold them.
There is also the significant issue regarding the lack of a code of conduct for Members of the Legislative Assembly. British Columbia is one of two outstanding jurisdictions in Canada without one, and it is unacceptable that in 2025 we lack this fundamental framework for accountability, integrity and respectful behavior. MLAs hold one of the highest positions of power and responsibility in the province, representing over 5 million British Columbians. Our words and behavior reflect on everyone, and we need to act accordingly.
The 2024 report of the Working Group on Parliamentary Culture recommends that “the Speaker, House Leaders and all Members of the Legislative Assembly work together to:
Establish clear and updated guidance, with cross-party support, on unacceptable and unprofessional behavior in the Chamber, and re-state the guidance at the beginning of every parliamentary session, with House Leaders and caucuses playing an active role in enforcing these guidelines (recommendation 14, page 21).
An increase in racist rhetoric is occurring on your watch and allowing such comments to stand without challenge – particularly in question period and through private members bills, continues to fuel anti-Indigenous, xenophobic, and anti-inclusive sentiment both inside and beyond this Chamber.
I recognize that being in the Chamber is a place of privilege, and Members enjoy a certain amount of latitude and must be allowed to voice legitimate criticisms. But this is not what we are experiencing; there are limitations, and we must hold ourselves to a higher standard.
The Working Group noted that the Speaker and the House Leaders carry a heavy burden in upholding the dignity of the House. As the Speaker, you have a to strike a delicate balance in supporting order and decorum while not overregulating and undermining Members’ ability to speak freely on behalf of constituents.
I ask that in your authority, as Speaker, you take clear and immediate action to enforce:
Standing Orders 9 and 40(2), particularly during question period regarding the use of disrespectful and offensive language, and misconduct. I also request that you begin the process to establish a formal code of conduct for the Members of the Legislative Assembly.
This House can never become a place where hate, intolerant views, harmful beliefs, or discriminatory remarks are permitted for the sake of political theatre. As the Speaker you have the authority to provide clear and consistent rulings and prioritize a responsible path forward for all members.
I am requesting a meeting to discuss your response at your earliest convenience.
Sincerely,
Rob Botterell
Third Party House Leader
MLA Saanich North and the Islands
