Mike Farnworth was first elected as MLA for Port Coquitlam-Burke Mountain in 1991 and most recently re-elected in 2020 for the riding of Port Coquitlam. He has served as Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General and Government House Leader since July 2017 and, as of October 2021, was appointed as Deputy Premier of British Columbia.

Nancy Furness – Local Journalism Initiative

Mike recounts his long connection with Port Coquitlam and how concerns over the environment and the development of Colony Farm (ƛ̓éxətəm) Regional Park initially inspired him to become involved in politics. He says he is running once again for the BC NDP party because it aligns well with his own values.

Mike says his role as Government House Leader includes administrative duties, the introduction of bills and conducting question period, as well building relationships with all parties. As Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General he says “I’m responsible for police in our Province, correctional facilities, legalization of cannabis, alcohol, and ICBC (Insurance Corporation of BC).”

As Deputy Premier he chairs Cabinet and attends events when the Premier is unavailable. Despite concerns recently expressed by a Port Coquitlam City Councillor, Mike says “The reality is crime (including violent crime) has been trending down.” He says many investments are being made to both enforcement and social supports to ensure safety of citizens. Mikes says the plan to deal with severe mental health and addiction issues includes mandatory treatment.

He acknowledges the need for a range of solutions including voluntary treatment facilities located throughout the province. Changes to ICBC under Mike’s leadership include stopping the syphoning of funds out of ICBC, lowering rates, and changing from a litigation model to a no-fault model. While improvements are continuing, the new model strives to ensure fair coverage for everyone. Mike believes that while UNDRIP (United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples) does not give veto power to First Nations, it still provides a respectful path forward for both indigenous and non-indigenous people. Housing and affordability are key issues, in addition to health care and education.

Mike says priorities in Port Coquitlam include rebuilding the Coquitlam River Bridge, Hazel Trenbath School, and skytrain, upgrading the Mary Hill bypass, and building a new soccer field and bike paths. He is especially proud of getting a ‘stream-flow’ agreement with BC Hydro to ensure adequate water flows in the Coquitlam River. As far as the unprecedented collapse of the BC United campaign, Mike says “I think it bodes ill for democracy.”