The Tri-Cities' five MLAs that earned a seat in the B.C. legislature from the Oct. 19 provincial election will officially take their places on Nov. 18.
That's when the latest government will be sworn into power, according to a release from the province today, Nov. 6.
Mike Farnworth (Port Coquitlam), Rick Glumac (Port Moody-Burquitlam) and Jennifer Whiteside (New Westminster-Coquitlam) will endure yet another ceremony of their respective careers — the third in a row for the BC NDP.
Jennifer Blatherwick (Coquitlam-Maillardville) and Jodie Wickens (Coquitlam-Burke Mountain) will experience the post-election event for the first time as the newest MLAs.
A look at the Tri-Cities' final numbers from the 2024 B.C. election https://t.co/jHHhF1kA5t
— Tri-City News (@TriCityNews) October 30, 2024
Premier David Eby will present cabinet recommendations to B.C.'s Lieutenant Governor Janet Austin prior to the Monday gathering, meaning elected officials will also find out if they'll take the lead on a ministry portfolio.
It's very likely Farnworth, elected an eighth time to Victoria in his 30-year political career, could remain as solicitor general and public safety minister — positions he's held since 2017 — as well as deputy premier, named in 2021.
Whiteside was the minister of mental health and addictions prior to the election. She was re-assigned to the portfolio in December 2022 from education.
While Glumac has never led a ministry, he has acted as the premier's liaison to Washington State and the Pacific Northwest, dealing with affairs that matter to regional neighbours. He was also the parliamentary secretary for technology during his first term in office.
Blatherwick was elected as a School District 43 (SD43) trustee in 2022, which could put her in conversation for education and child care; as well as post-secondary education and future skills, once held by her predecessor Selina Robinson.
Wickens' extensive background in child and youth programs could encourage Eby to place her with portfolios like children and family development, social development and poverty reduction, or even tourism, arts, culture and sport.
The swearing-in ceremony will take place at Government House in Victoria on Nov. 18.
The date is set based on judicial recounts and reporting information from Elections BC, the province explained.
"Judicial recounts will ensure every vote is counted," Premier Eby added.
"Following those counts, British Columbians want to see urgent action taken on their priorities, including affordability and housing, strengthening health care and building strong communities within a vibrant economy. The first step is swearing in a new cabinet for British Columbia."
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