Bios
Andrew MacLeod
Photo: Mary-Anne McNeney.
Andrew MacLeod is The Tyee's legislative bureau chief.
Before joining The Tyee, Andrew worked for Victoria's alternative weekly Monday Magazine, where he wrote hundreds of stories on many topics, including poverty, land use and the environment. His work has been referred to in the B.C. legislature, Canadian House of Commons and senate. He won a 2006 Association of Alternative Newsweeklies award for news writing and was a finalist for a 2007 Western Magazine Award for best article in B.C. and the Yukon.
Andrew lives with his family in Victoria and is learning to play the Scottish small pipes. You can reach him here or at (250) 885-7662.
Stories by Andrew MacLeod
Mega-Yacht Marina, Not Yet Approved, Selling Slips for $10,000
Controversial Victoria Harbour project has yet to be green lighted by feds, province.
How to Revive an 'Eviscerated' Freedom of Info Act
That was the topic as MLAs heard from frustrated open government advocates.
Complaints of Unfairness Shoot up from Welfare, Disability Recipients
Independent government tribunal had budget cut as appeals rose 46 per cent.
If Big Quake Hits, Key Ministries Won't Be Ready: Audit
Province's emergency planning and reaction skills slammed by internal report.
Sockeye Eco-Certification Kicks up Storm
Why give BC's collapsed runs a sustainable seal of approval, critics ask.
Vancouver Island Health's Pricey Consultant at Centre of Ontario Scandal
$746,646 paid to Courtyard Group was money well spent: VIHA official.
'It Stinks Like Garbage'
Chief worries about expanding Cache Creek dump. Decisions favour Liberal donors.
Who Calls the Shots for BC Gambling Limits?
Emails indicate Minister Coleman was told just five days before BC's Lottery Corporation raised online gambling limits from $120 to $9,999.
Canadians Confused about Paying for Retirement: Menzies
Lead Tory at pension summit says system has 'gaps' but offers no clear path on reforms.
Eroding Pensions, Political Flashpoints
Expect more strikes and other battles over pensions if ministers can't craft real reform in Whitehorse this week.
Tories 'Not Discounting Any Option' on Pension Reform
Key MP says need is urgent, expresses concerns about labour's idea to double CPP.
BC 'Leading' National Discussion on Fixing Pensions: Hansen
Labour, BC Liberals, others jostle to put forth new retirement plans.
'Sustainability' the Hot Word (Again) at NDP Convention
Leader James links economy with ecology, but some delegates not satisfied.
BC First Graders Get Book Rejected as 'Racist' Elsewhere
'Let's Go' story of transport depicts Aboriginal stereotypes, advised experts.
A Good Dam Deal?
NDP say existing Waneta Dam contract cheaper; Libs say purchase gives capacity, certainty.
Heads Won't Roll?
BC's premier pledged to cut 'senior executive ranks' by 20 per cent, but can offer no proof it happened. Tyee calculations raise doubts.
Analysts Argue over Olympics Effect on BC Tourism
New report puts impact at zero so far, but another expert says 'more clever' counting yields rosier view.
Bloated Pay, Conflict at Top of BC Ferries: Ministry Report
Boss Hahn's $1 million salary twice the norm; board members set own pay 'without accountability'.
$6.7 Billion Lopped off Olympic Economic Benefits Projections
And government's new number, $4 billion, is based on a seven-year-old 'best case' scenario that hasn't panned out.
New Law Lets Police Force Homeless to Visit Shelter
Controversial legislation assailed by civil liberties advocates, NDP.
Province Wants to Sell Surgeries to Saskatchewan
Parties spar over whether the plan will allow BCers to get operations faster.
Mi'kmaq Chief Wants an Apology from Gordon Campbell
Chief says BC premier reneged on promise to have children's choir in Games opening ceremonies.
Liberals Smoothed Waters for Mega-Yacht Marina
Influence applied to Victoria project revealed in released documents.
BC's Own eHealth Scandal Erupts
Search warrant targets tech contractor, health officials. NDP demands independent probe.
'Budget Cut Blues' Played for Politicians
'Cuts to the arts will lead to cultural bankruptcy,' committee told.
BC a Bad Place to Be a Woman?
'D' grade for women's equality given to province by group sparks debate in Legislature.
When Convention Centre Opened, Inspector Had Safety Concerns
Reports reveal worries about fire preparedness as premier ushered in the public.
Universities Spend to Get Government's Ear
SFU hired lobbyists with BC Liberal ties to help make its case.
Towns Spend Thousands to Lobby BC's Government
Municipal taxpayers' money flows to gain edges with provincial officials.
Premier Campbell Refused to Disclose Holdings
Other ministers revealed they invest in industries their decisions influence.
'Our Hopes Dashed' by Budget, Say BC's Enviros
Campbell government opts to 'invest in climate unfriendly programs.'
Record Deficit a Big Surprise, Say BC Liberals
During May's election Hansen learned revenues were hundreds of millions of dollars lower, but lacked a 'crystal ball'.
Tax Wealthy, Don't Cut Services: Poll
Labour-sponsored survey shows clashing visions over budgeting in tough economy.
Liberal Election Win Based on Lies: James
Campbell says economic disaster and HST plans came after vote
'Perverse' Rules Glitch Impoverishes EI Recipients
Welcome to Chiu Yin Wong's nightmare, increasingly common.
BC Hydro's $825 Million Dam Deal
Price seems way too high to NDP critic, who questions Lib donor tie.
BC Ran a $1.4 Billion Deficit
StatsCan ties 2009 shortfall to rising expenses. Couldn't Libs see it coming?
Tent Camping Homeless to Politicians: 'Face Facts!'
Court allowed temporary shelters in Victoria parks, but officials still fighting it.
Company Caught in Ontario Scandal Also Had BC Contracts
Health consultant helped former BC civil servant Penny Ballem find work in Ontario.
Next News Powerhouse in BC?
Glacier Media, with more than 30 papers, is poised to buy more.
'We Refuse to Wait Any Longer'
Victoria harm reduction activists march, launch their own needle exchange.
How to Get a $24 Million Gov't Contract without Competing
Just one candidate for ministry's big computer upgrade.
Sun's Olympics Reporter Was Paid to Write for IOC's Magazine
Jeff Lee says his editors cleared him to take free-lance job, can't recall fee.
James Vows to Run in 2013
She's staying on, despite just fighting a campaign she says lacked vision.
When Gov't Cut Red Tape, Life Got Sticky for Many
Libs proud of loosened regs for private colleges, other industries. Costs too high, say critics.
Gov't Payments to Maximus Balloon
Up 60 per cent since province outsourced health records to contractor in 2004.
BC Rail Trust Fund: Timing of Financial Blackout Questioned
Libs look like they're hiding info until election ends: ethics expert.
Province's Economy Much Worse than We Were Told
New StatsCan numbers likely mean bigger budget deficit or spending cuts: experts.
Campbell's Claim that Jobs Lifted Many out of Poverty Proves a Myth
Delayed government report shows no real gains.
Greens' Sterk 'Quite Optimistic'
The party's leader on her ideas, her chances, facing 'hostility' and more.
Candidate Fronted a Jobs Program Slammed by Auditors
BC Libs' Robin Adair is running in Saanich South.
In BC, Being a Nurse Can Be Hell
Assaults, abuse blamed on workplace climate, cuts and staff shortages.
BC's Badly Broken Welfare System
BC Libs created 'overly complex' maze that kept needy off rolls: ombudsman
NDP Would Add $3 Billion to BC Debt
James proposes business tax cuts to stimulate economic recovery.
Ferry Fares Float Upwards
Company hikes prices despite traffic drop, weak economy.
Pity the Naked Candidate
If you want to run for office, get ready for heavy vetting.
Union Turf Fight over Licensed Practical Nurses
Two health worker unions file complaint against BC Nurses' Union.
Elections Commissioner Drops Phone Fraud Probe
Move leaves opposition candidates, watchdog with questions.
Details Emerge on MP Gary Lunn's Third Party Advertisers
Watchdog wants Elections Canada to investigate.
'Northern Adventure' Wasn't Safe to Sail: Union Inspector
Report alleges many problems, claims certifying ship was 'negligent.'
Poole's Free Jet Ride Was No Gift: Campbell
NDP asks why premier hasn't cited Beijing trip on conflict disclosure forms.
BC Ferries' Spin Plan Exposed
Secret strategy to control public debate as company went private.
Campbell Wants to Repeal Waterways Access Law
1882 Act protects citizens' right of access to rivers, lakes, ocean inlets.
BC Deficit Budget Cuts Spending, Offers Little Stimulus
Health and education safe but other ministries trimmed, including environment, housing, aboriginal affairs.
Embattled Pharma Review Panel Works Well: Top Scientists
Ministry's push to disband Therapeutics Initiative 'lacks substantive evidence.'
NDP's Billion Dollar Idea to Green BC's Economy
Wary support from some enviros. Too risky say Libs.
New Rules Stopped 450,000 Canadians from Voting
Upped ID requirements may have affected some close federal races.
BC Flubbed Probe on Private Health Clinic: Critics
Facing lawsuits, minister vows to defend public health care. The Copeman case raises questions.
Better to Be Sick in New Zealand?
What BC's Health Ministry learned from Kiwis about drugs, charging patients, and more.
Premier Campbell Backing off Global Warming Effort?
Enviros worried that cabinet shuffle sends a signal priorities have changed.
Hey Saudis, Wanna Buy a Fast Ferry?
PacifiCats get a look for Red Sea route. Brokers still flogging the vessels.
Ferry Workers Told to Stop Calling New Vessels 'Gas Guzzlers'
Memo shows 'culture of secrecy' says NDP critic.
Sharing the STV Pie
UVic's Dennis Pilon serves up his reasons for changing the way BC elects.
BC's Noisy New German Ferries
Louder than previous models, they rattle some coastal residents' homes.
Changing Light Bulbs: BC Ferries Battles Fuel Costs
Savings sought as two German-built vessels sit idle many days.
Pharma Reps Meet in Secret, Craft New Drug Approval Process
Campbell government hosted closed meetings.
BC's German Ferries May Be Lemons
Heavy fuel use, noise, vibration and air-sucking propellers said to be problems.
BC Jobs Firm a Bust for Ontario
Private contractor did no better than public effort it replaced: review.
'We're Being Muzzled' Say Top Farmland Scientists
Nine senior agrologists protest way ALR decisions are made.
Gary Lunn's Shadowy Grassroots
Mysterious groups helped with minister's re-election bid.
Tyee's Strategic Voters' Guide
A riding-by-riding look at pros and cons of voting 'anyone but Harper' in BC. (Not as simple as it seems.)
Lunn's Million Dollar 'Green' Grant to Wealthy Homeowners
Saanich group wants 'erroneous' water project grant cancelled.
Tory Resources Minister Battles Three Shades of Green
Trio of opponents may split vote against Conservative Gary Lunn.
The Closest Race in BC?
In North Island, NDP and Tory foes split last two races by a hair. Here comes round three.
Job Training: Taxpayers Taken for $24 Bus Ride
How private contracts inflated cost of welfare-to-work programs.
Liberals to JobWave: You're Fired
$8 million job training contract cancelled; work goes to B.C. competitor.
Microtek's Money
University owns piece of fish-farm vaccine-maker accused of poor practices. Last in a series.
UVic Fish Lab Employees Raised Many Alarms
At Microtek, a two-year history of concerns expressed. Second in a three-part special report.
Tainted Water from UVic Fish Lab
Pathogens, chemicals, flowed out untreated. First of a three-part special report.
Olympics as 'Five Ring Circus'
Chris Shaw, critic, author and now council candidate, on why the games are 'a corporate scam.'
'The Battle for the Commons'
Right of homeless to camp in parks is focus of landmark Victoria court case.
Our Olympics, Outsourced
It's a global gold rush, and VANOC doesn't give B.C. firms any advantage.
Pat Kinsella's Bumpy Career
'Backroom boy' key to Campbell success no stranger to controversy.
Campbell's Gift to Harper?
Premier fine with electing senators; critics say BC still loses.
The Carbon Campaign of '09
Campbell's tax is an NDP wedge issue. But at what risk?
Canada Poured Millions into US Timber Biz 'Slush Fund'
Group sues to find out how recipients of softwood deal's $450 million were chosen.
The Campaign Begins
NDP leader Carole James tells The Tyee what it will take to win in 2009.
Election Bill Pared Back
Bill 42: Oppal retreats halfway on ad ban, leaves ID rules untouched.
Fatten Pharma's Bottom Line, Health Ministry Told
Panel wants BC's medicine buys to boost 'economic development' as well as health.
Life Saving Drug Watchdog May Be Scrapped
Health minister takes cue from panel stacked with pharma reps.
Oppal's Murky Method for Changing BC's Election Laws
AG ignored many suggestions by electoral officer, plucked others from thin air.
Maker of HPV Vaccine Under Fire
Regulators found problems at US plant where Gardasil is made for BC.
Oppal Confused on Voter ID Law?
AG calls tightened requirements a 'good move' but cites report that says opposite.
Hot Button Bill: Libs Rush to Change Election Laws
Diverse foes say Bill 42 would crimp free speech, hurt poor voters.
HPV Vaccine for Girls Oversold?
BC govt's claims for $39 million shots program challenged.
Welfare Hike Would Make BC 'Magnet' for Poor: Minister
Richmond rejects call for 50 per cent raise.
Shelling Out?
Nature Conservancy's 'partnership' with oil giant Shell rankles donor.
Risky Business by Libs Exposed
Privatizer given $149 million contract without cost benefit analysis: auditor general.
Poverty Built into BC's System
Two-year study looks at welfare policies' effects on people.
'How Many Bottles of Wine to Build a Hospital?'
Libs' audit lets high-flying P3 deal makers off hook: NDP.
'Growth Is Coming': Developer Floats Plan for Jordan River
Town of 10,000 sketched for controversial forest land release.
Brar Targets Job Program Sale
NDP critic raises concerns about timing, client privacy.
Ida Chong's New Ears
Minister ducked opposition to Jordan River development, say protesters.
'Green' Budget Taxes Car Sharers
New levy penalizes eco-friendly practice, say critics.
Does Early French Immersion Work?
BC hasn't tracked costs or results, but New Brunswick is pulling the plug.
How Island Elk Range Was Stripped of Protection
Province excused forest firm from preserving key habitat.
Can MLAs Be Kept Honest?
Outgoing conflict of interest watchdog offers ideas.
Les To Be Interviewed: Special Prosecutor
Investigation into land deal benefits continues.
Les's Land Dealings
Former Chilliwack mayor sold strata lots after becoming MLA.
Ready for a Slump?
As BC's economy cools, how well are we prepared?
Bear Mountain Road Foe Grabs Mineral Rights
'Bare Mountain' claim could test mining law nuisance provisions.
Budget Surplus a Jackpot for Some Health Causes
Wrong way to manage finances, says NDP critic.
BC Ferries Leaks Money, Riders
Falling passenger numbers have critics sounding alarms.
Homeless by Choice?
A Victoria court challenge depends on what's voluntary and what's not.
'Highly Deceptive' Slot Machines Filling Gov't Coffers
'Programmed on purpose to throw you off': expert.
Gambling Goes Boom
Slot machines in rebranded bingo halls boost BC revenues.
Ed Minister's 'No' to Parents, Teachers of Special Needs Kids
Keying off study, delegation asked for targeted funding.
Who Gets $2 Billion for Job Skills?
US firms may scoop fed funds handed to BC.
Funding Found for New Vote on How BC Elects
$1.5 million to explain pros and cons of STV.
'Landmark' Green Budget, with Some Brown Spots
Winners: Banks, oil, roads. Losers: Schools, wild salmon.
Porn Blocked in Boonies
Tahsis Internet users receive government warnings; glitch blamed.
Green Gord: Unclear on Concept?
Throne speech still fuzzy on global warming plan.
BC's Homeless Numbers War
Housing minister slams studies, but won't order his own.
Voting Reform to Die?
Backers of STV fear promised referendum is at risk.
BC's Private School Mess: Lessons Learned?
Libs must reverse 'hands off' policy, say critics.
Up to 15,500 Homeless: Report
Tally of BC homeless by health profs far higher than housing minister's.
Wider Roads Touted as 'Green'
In Campbell's new era, projects promoted as good for planet can surprise.
Homeless, Housing Stats Disputed
Minister Coleman's figures are 'bogus' says NDP critic.
Facebook Used by Officials to Spy on Welfare Clients
BC officers cruise social sites for fraud evidence.
Ministry Fish Farm Biologists Won't Be Penned
None joined expert body Libs created for 'public interest.'
Forest Minister's Brother High in Firm Granted Tree Farm Deal
WFP's Stan Coleman: 'no involvement' with brother Rich's move to help his company.
Where MLAs Put Their Money
BC's enviro minister is into energy stocks. And more disclosures.
BC's Broccoli Minister Owns Piece of Pizza Chain
Gordon Hogg and other BC Libs are fast food investors.
BC's Lobbyist Tracker Needs Big Fixes, Says a Creator
Former AG: Website tweak is overdue, but not enough.
Idea #8: Reboot the Treaty Process
Taiaiake Alfred calls for a conference to establish some basic principles.
Idea #6: Fix the Building Code
Two environmentalists say current rules are a barrier to new thinking.
Bear Mountain Road Showdown
Protesters in trees set to clash with work crew.
Hydrogen Dream Not Adding Up
BC's new buses aren't 'zero-emission solution' as claimed.
What Should We Pay for Drugs?
Critics say BC's new pharma panel, stacked with drug firm reps, may erode safety, raise costs.
Doctors Double Dipping
Clinic doctors got $500,000 in public funds, but walk-ins must pay for basic visits.
Translink Democracy Derailed
Political appointees to replace elected reps.
Drug Firms' Sway over BC's New PharmaCare Task Force
Most panel members have strong links to drug industry.
Vulnerable Prey
Disabled group-home residents targets of sexual assaults.
Battle over the Bare Minimum
NDP bill to make $10 the minimum wage dies, campaign continues.
Dead Soldiers Aren't Funny
New group takes aim at military messaging.
The Man Who Hates School Fees
Trustee John Young preps for final knock-out in fee fight.
Schoolyard Brawl
How elected trustees are fighting a BC Liberal government power grab.
BC Health Advice: Censored and Skewed?
Libs cancel a critic, open door to pharma lobbyists.
Art of Survival
'I do have schizophrenia, but in my heart I'm an artist.'
Big Sewer Blockages
Victoria must now treat its sewage, but how?
How Green Is UVic?
There's no cause to brag. 'Knowledge has succumbed to power,' say authors of Planet U.
Who Will Lead the Greens?
Federal race is hard fought as August vote looms.
Copeman Clinic: The Tipping Point?
How long before every Canadian pays to see a family doctor? A special report.
How BC Trimmed 107,000 People from Welfare Rolls
Some got jobs. Red tape, death likely knocked out far more.
Libs' Welfare-to-Jobs Program a Bust, Reveals Delayed Report
Loses $13 million, high failure rate and neediest not served.
A Controversial ‘P3’ the NDP Loves
American firm to build New Nanaimo Centre. Foes ask ‘Where’s Krog?’
Activists to NDP, Greens: 'Get Along'
'Broad Coalition' pushes to stop splitting votes this time around.
A Government Learns to Love Gambling
Leaked letters reveal the B.C. Liberals' journey from opposing to allowing expanded gambling.
Childcare Funds for Kids at Home, Too?
Experts say 'attachment parenting' is vital. But so far the Liberals' childcare plan has nothing to offer the full time mom or dad.
Government Push for More Slot Gambling
Slot machines in bingo halls are Liberals' latest plan to boost gambling revenues, reversing election promises.
Shut Out at the Entrance
Most welfare claimants move in and out of the system. Many now find the door is locked when they need support. TYEE SPECIAL REPORT: PART 4
Welfare Reform's Public-Private Partnerships
The Fraser Institute says they're a huge advance in social policy. Critics say work placement companies are growing rich but doing little.
Where Did All the Welfare Cases Go?
To work, say the Liberals. But critics say the claim that the 87,000 who've left are doing well rests on shaky evidence. TYEE SPECIAL REPORT: PART 2
Welfare's New Era: Survival of the Fittest
The provincial government's tough rules have spawned fear, pain, a little black comedy, and very real tragedy. TYEE SPECIAL REPORT: PART 1
