Million-Dollar Compensation For CEO Proves Lack Of Accountability At B.C. Ferries
VICTORIA – Media reports that B.C. Ferries CEO David Hahn received one million dollars in total compensation last year is more proof of why accountability needs to be returned to our ferry system, the New Democrats said today.
Gary Coons
“British Columbians don’t need a million-dollar man at B.C. Ferries. They need a system that is affordable and accountable to taxpayers,” said New Democrat ferries critic Gary Coons .
“News reports today that Mr. Hahn is receiving one million dollars a year will be quite a shock to British Columbians who have seen ferry fares skyrocket and service cut in coastal communities across the province.”
Television reports this evening claimed that Hahn is receiving approximately one million dollars a year in salary, bonuses, and pension benefits. Coons said that this would be a big spike, noting that in 2006 Hahn said that his salary and maximum performance bonuses totalled $550,000.
The news comes on the same day the B.C. Liberals quietly announced a sweeping review of both B.C. Ferries and TransLink. Coons noted that the Campbell government has come under criticism for their reorganisation of both entities, and the increased fares and lack of accountability that have followed.
“It’s time to restore accountability at B.C. Ferries. The B.C. Liberals set up this system, and they need to take responsibility for the chaos they created,” said Coons.
“During the election campaign, the B.C. Liberals refused to admit that there were problems with the lack of accountability at B.C. Ferries. Now that the election is over, are they finally admitting their mistakes?”
Carole James and the New Democrats have been holding Gordon Campbell accountable for his broken election promises, including his promise to protect health and education and his failure to admit until after the election that the deficit will be significantly higher than promised.
