Thank you for drawing everyone’s attention to my responsibility as your elected representative, and for the opportunity to respond to the editorial “Anyone seen Goldsmith-Jones?” from Thursday, Oct. 20.
In terms of “cancelling meetings with citizens,” yes, my schedule sometimes changes due to funding announcements in the riding scheduled by other departments, or travel on behalf of Minister Dion. In both situations, our staff works incredibly hard to reschedule appointments and the community has been happy to accommodate. I can think of one instance where a constituent was not happy.
I attended the Squamish Martyrdom of the Fifth Guru in June – I was given a wool scarf on the stage which I happily wear in Ottawa.
I respond to local and national media almost daily. The media plays a critical role in our democratic society and I am committed to openness and transparency in all I do.
With regard to my calendar, my legislative assistant spent three hours removing personal names in order to provide this to you. I am surprised to learn you did not receive it – we will resend. Our website, www.pgoldsmithjones.ca, has a list of all my recent public engagements. I have also attached the BC Legislature and House of Commons calendars.
I reside in Ottawa three out of every four weeks, eight to nine months of the year. MLA Sturdy is able to be in the riding more which is great! We are in constant contact, as are our staff members. Mayor Heintzman and I talk on the phone regularly – it was wonderful to see everyone at her 50th birthday party at the Brackendale Art Gallery a few weeks ago.
I would not expect the media to be at private meetings I have with businesses, the university, individuals or First Nations in Ottawa, in our constituency office or in Squamish coffee shops. It is an honour to serve our community.
Pamela Goldsmith-Jones,
MP for West Vancouver-Sunshine Coast-Sea to Sky Country
