Neufeld Accepts Senate Seat

COMMENT: Harper's 18 senate appointments are rewards to his bagpeople and other loyal supporters before he loses the opportunity. This from from the politician who is a firm believer in an elected senate. Sheesh. There's no reason to expect this to signal a change in government energy or mining policy, although it may be an opportunity to put a prettier face on the ministry.

By 250 News, Prince George
Monday, December 22, 2008

FORT ST. JOHN - Peace River North MLA Richard Neufeld, who also serves as Minister of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources, announced today he has accepted a position in the Senate of Canada.

"I have been privileged to serve the constituents of this riding for the last 18 years and I want to thank them for their support," Neufeld said from his home in Fort St. John. "In recent weeks I had discussed with Premier Campbell that I would not be putting my name forward for a fifth term, so I am honoured to have been chosen for the Senate."

Neufeld was first elected to the Legislative Assembly in 1991 to represent the riding of Peace River North and was re-elected in 1996, 2001 and 2005. He served on Fort Nelson council from 1978 to 1986, five of those years as mayor.

"Richard has been an outstanding MLA, minister and caucus colleague," said Premier Gordon Campbell. "We're really going to miss him on our team, but I know all British Columbians will be very well served by his continuing contributions on behalf of our province in the Senate."

Neufeld says the past eight years have put British Columbia on a good footing to withstand these difficult economic times.

"Working with Gordon Campbell and serving in his cabinet for the last eight years has been both an honour and a privilege," said Neufeld. "This province will continue to do well in these tough economic times because of his leadership.

"The challenges in the next few months are significant and I am proud to continue to represent both this province and now this country in years to come. I look forward to working with the Prime Minister to keep Canada strong."

Before entering provincial politics, Mr. Neufeld owned and operated a business in Fort Nelson. He has been involved in the oil and gas industry most of his life.

Richard and his wife Montana live in Fort St. John and have four grown children and a grandson named Connor.