Sonia Furstenau had a special appreciation for the traditions as she was sworn in as the MLA for Cowichan Valley.
“It was very moving, actually,” said Furstenau, who was sworn in along with her two fellow B.C. Green Party MLAs on Wednesday afternoon. “I always forget about how much I’m moved by ceremony. It must be the historian in me.”
The historic ceremony — the Green Party tripled the number of MLAs it had in the previous legislature and set a record for Green MLAs in any province — took place inside the legislative chambers, which were full of well-wishers.
“I was so touched by all the people who came, all the supporters and volunteers and family,” Furstenau said.
The Green MLAs — Furstenau, party leader Andrew Weaver and Adam Olsen — took the oath of office, then signed the century-old roll book.
“The tradition of being sworn in dates back to Elizabeth I,” Furstenau pointed out. “It’s exciting to be part of history.”
Olsen, who represents Saanich North and the Islands, became the first MLA from Tsartlip, and a blanketing ceremony was held for him prior to the three Green MLAs entering the legislature.
“It was a real honour to be present for that,” Furstenau said.
The Green MLAs and the rest of the 41st legislature will get down to business later this month. The house is being called back for June 22 with Premier Christy Clark leading a minority B.C. Liberal government that will have to deal with an alliance between the Green and New Democrat parties.
“It’s time for all 87 newly elected and returning members to make this parliament work,” Furstenau said. “It’s our job to make it work.”
Furstenau added that she is planning to open her constituency office at 164 Station St. in downtown Duncan next week. An open house will be announced later.
