Gary Coons was re-elected as the MLA for the North Coast on May 12, 2009. He was first elected to the Legislature on May 17, 2005.

Gary serves as opposition critic for ferries and coastal communities. He began his work on transportation issues during the last parliament, where as critic for ferries he hosted a well-attended ferry tour in ferry-dependent communities across the province. He also worked closely with the Gitgat nation to hold B.C. Ferries and the B.C. Liberal government to account for failing to clean up the mess caused by the sinking of the Queen of the North.

During his first term Gary played a pivotal role on the Special Committee for Sustainable Aquaculture, which made 55 wide-ranging recommendations to green the aquaculture industry and protect wild salmon – including a recommendation to keep the north coast closed to expansion of the aquaculture industry.

As a member of the Select Standing Committee on Aboriginal Affairs, Gary worked hard to earn the respect of first nations both in his own constituency, and across the province.

A tireless advocate for rural and remote communities and a staunch defender of the environment, Gary has put a tremendous amount of effort into fighting for the right to engage in farm gate sales.

He has also been at the forefront of opposition to coalbed methane extraction in the Sacred Headwaters and the expansion of crude oil tanker traffic in the inside passage and Kitimat channel.

Before entering politics Gary was an educator in the Prince Rupert School District for 27 years. He taught Mathematics/Special Education. It was during his time as a teacher and union activist that Gary first start down the path to political involvement.

An avid sportsman, Gary enjoys coaching, playing racquet sports and taking advantage of the many outdoor activities that the north coast has to offer.

Gary is married to Lois Elliot and together they have two daughters, Breton and Hannah.