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“I am a Canadian, free to speak without fear, free to worship in my own way, free to stand for what I think right, free to oppose what I believe wrong, or free to choose those who shall govern my country. This heritage of freedom I pledge to uphold for myself and all mankind.” ~~ John G. Diefenbaker

ADAM OLSEN: There is a crisis in our government institution, and as an MLA we have a responsibility to address it head-on

Adam Olsen, MLA for Saanich North and the Islands

There's a crisis of confidence in this institution; the BC Legislature. 

Thinking back to the thousands of stories I heard on the doorstep during the 2017 election, it did not matter whether I was on the top of the mountain in North Saanich, the waterfront in Sidney, on Salt Spring Island or Tsartlip First Nation, trust in this institute was in tatters.

The internal narrative of our local campaign was built on trust. Trust is an important value for me.

On one hand, it seemed like a political opportunity, right? People had lost trust in government. It appears to be a perfectly delicious scenario for change. On the other hand, it is devastating to be enticed to celebrate a crisis in confidence in our government because of a potential political win.

These statements from members often celebrate the lives of influential British Columbians or special days of advocacy. They draw attention to critical, non-partisan issues in our ridings and across the province. That, too, is my goal today.

Restore trust

Since my election, there has been a steady stream of constituents who've approached me, encouraging me to directly address the issues that are diminishing the stature of this House. These people have seen the inside. They carry the burden with them as part of their story.

It is for these constituents of mine and for British Columbians right across this province that today I shine a light on our commitment to rebuilding the public's trust in our government institution.

I stand here in this chamber, where we undertake the most important business of this province, and reaffirm the oath that we swear to protect the honour of this House, the people's House. 

I am reminded that this place is indeed nothing if it's not built on trust.




Adam Olsen is the Member of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia for Saanich North and the Islands

Born in Victoria, BC in 1976, Adam has lived, worked and played his entire life on the Saanich Peninsula. 

He is a member of Tsartlip First Nation (W̱JOȽEȽP), where he and his wife, Emily, are raising their two children, Silas and Ella
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