Independent media needs you. Join the Tyee.

The Hook: Political news, freshly caught

BC preparing to advertise Premier Clark's jobs plan

The British Columbia government is planning an advertising campaign to promote Premier Christy Clark's jobs plan.

Government spokespeople said Jobs, Tourism and Innovation Minister Pat Bell, who has been away on an Asian trade mission, will be back in Victoria tomorrow and able to speak about the planned campaign.

The minister responsible for the government communications and public engagement branch, what used to be known as the public affairs bureau, Margaret MacDiarmid, also said the campaign is being organized through Bell's ministry.

"This is a communications plan for the premier," said NDP Leader Adrian Dix. "What we have is essentially a list of private sector initiatives with the premier putting a communications spin on it. Now they're going to advertise the government's agenda using public funds."

The jobs plan should be about jobs for British Columbians, not just a promotion of the premier's own job, he said.

Two focus groups in late October were asked for feedback on radio, television and print ads promoting the jobs plan Clark released in September. The television and radio ads focused on infrastructure development and tested two possible slogans.

The print ads promote the success of local projects, including reopening a copper mine near Princeton, reopening of the sawmill in MacKenzie and increasing the number of foreign students in Victoria.

Andrew MacLeod is The Tyee’s Legislative Bureau Chief in Victoria. Reach him here.


What have we missed? What do you think? We want to know. Comment below. Keep in mind:

Do:

  • Verify facts, debunk rumours
  • Add context and background
  • Spot typos and logical fallacies
  • Highlight reporting blind spots
  • Ignore trolls
  • Treat all with respect and curiosity
  • Connect with each other

Do not:

  • Use sexist, classist, racist or homophobic language
  • Libel or defame
  • Bully or troll
  • Troll patrol. Instead, flag suspect activity.
comments powered by Disqus