Federal candidates eye ridings
With a new federal riding in place, leadership for Vancouver Island North-Comox-Powell River has started to shake.
Long-time incumbent, Conservative MP John Duncan, has announced he will be seeking nomination for the Courtenay-Alberni riding next election.
Duncan is also Minister for State and Chief Government Whip. “Choosing where to run has been a difficult decision for me,” he said in a press release. “The splitting of Vancouver Island North as a result of the recent changes to the federal electoral boundaries was unexpected and I have strong connections throughout both of the new ridings.” Duncan previously lived in Ucluelet and Port Alberni during his 20-year career as an operational forester.
Laura Smith, who has worked with Duncan since 2008 as advisor, will seek Duncan’s current position. “In my time working with John Duncan I have had an opportunity to really understand the diversity of issues that we have in [the riding],” she said in a separate press release. “I love working to support our communities, and hope to continue to represent them as their member of parliament.”
Change at the mill
A new mill manager has arrived to head Catalyst Paper Corporation’s Powell River division.
Fred Chinn, vice-president and general manager, took over from Brian Johnston in April. Chinn has a 12-year history with Catalyst, having worked in Crofton Pulp, Crofton Paper and in Port Alberni.
The retiring Johnston had been general manager since July 2012.
