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I would like to apologize to all the residents of Victoria who may have been distressed to read that I had recently inquired about whether there might be a more equitable or affordable health care package for Victoria city councillors. As council’s remuneration package – which was recommended by an independent citizen’s panel - was to be voted on during this week’s City Council meeting, this seemed like an opportune time to examine if there was a more affordable, comprehensive and equitable health care option.
Unfortunately, what hasn’t been reported is that this question took up all of two minutes of a six hour Committee of the Whole meeting during which council approved a number of funding applications aimed at addressing homelessness, domestic violence, and increasing our current stock of supportive housing. In other words, neither myself nor my fellow councillors campaigned for or otherwise pressed for additional compensation, I merely made an inquiry in the spirit of the pay equity. The quick response from city staff was that this would have to be taken up with the Union of British Columbia Municipalities which currently oversees our healthcare package, and for most of us the matter ended then and there. In hindsight, it may have been politically naïve to make this inquiry at this particular time, however pay equity is a serious issue and I don’t believe that employees (no matter what the profession) should not be discouraged from asking basic questions about their remuneration. I can assure the press and public that this council is fully committed to improving the lives of all of the residents of our great city, and deeply regret that this has distracted attention from the serious matters currently facing our community. I would also invite any members of the public who might wish to further discuss the issue to call me at: 250-361-0217, or to email me at plucas@victoria.ca.
With best wishes for the holiday season,
Philippe Lucas
Victoria City Councillor