I just can't seem to get excited about the provincial election scheduled for May 16. Here in British Columbia, the NDP government ran out its mandate. Years of a depressed economy seem to have destroyed all spirit. The problems seem to be beyond provincial control. We remain a resource-rich land still much too reliant on primary industry--the exploitation of existing timber, water, fish, and minerals. The last government attempted to model diversification--lotteries and gaming, creating a fast ferry industry, eco-toursim. But attitudes are difficult to change; glitches discouraged innovation. Yet no one else offers any positive ideas. Just that tired old vote-buyer--a tax cut so "you" can spend more money.
The party in power has chosen to stress the only thing they seem to have going for them--the character of the leader, Premier Ujjal Dosanjh--who exudes a sense of "class" and inspires confidence personally.
The loyal opposition, Liberals who are small "c" conservative, seem to believe that they will win no matter what. Their election strategy seems to be not to say anything that could cause a reaction.
Our local MLA resigned and I don't even know who is running in his place. Last month's Arts and Culture Week was much more engaging. Even the federal Census, May 15, is more interesting. At least the Census Rep came to my door.
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