Speaker of B.C. legislature defends spending, says more oversight coming

VICTORIA – The speaker of British Columbia’s legislature is defending some recent renovations and upgrades that cost taxpayers tens of thousands of dollars.

The expenses filed by Linda Reid included $48,412 for a new desk and touch-screen computer in the legislative chamber and $13,449 for a new members’ lounge in the legislative library.

In a statement to the media, Reid says the speaker’s console will let her know when MLAs want to talk and allow her to simultaneously view events in other committee rooms.

She says the legislature is also a historic building and the work must respect that heritage.

Reid says the new lounge is accessible to all members, including those who are disabled, and the legislative library is now served by a ramp.

Reid says she will make recommendations next week that will bring “greater oversight, rigour and transparency” to spending tied to the legislature.