Finding common ground. By committee…

I am on the Public Accounts Committee. In January, we are meeting four times to review and receive the backlog of reports from the Auditor General.

“It is in committee that we find common ground.”

Committee work is some of the most rewarding work in the Legislature. The political divisions diminish and nine MLA’s focus on the task at hand. It is in committee that we find common ground and where we can nurture friendships and cross-party connections. Often my colleagues voice my concerns before I get a chance, and we build off the questions and comments of each other. Sometimes my colleagues perspective is not one I have considered, and critical to forming an educated opinion.

It is the Chamber, the big glamorous room, where some of the least constructive work is done. In reality, question period and endless repetitive partisan speeches on legislation, cast shade on the important efforts in the other rooms of the legislature.

“It is a much more positive working environment.”

I am a strong advocate for more work by committees. It adds pressure on our little BC Green Caucus, as we sit on every one, but it is worth it because it is a much more positive working environment.

In committee there is an opportunity to better inform government. While the meetings are official and on the record, they are less formal and provide a space for expert and public participation. As a result, if used smartly, committees can help government engage, get advice, and build consensus.

We can create a more collaborative and responsive government. A government that provides avenues for people to re-engage their democracy and make it better! After all, we have a comprehensive structure already in place, all we have to do is use our committees!