DAVID EMERSON TO CHAIR B.C. TRANSMISSION CORPORATION

VICTORIA – Former federal cabinet minister David Emerson will serve as the new executive chair of the British Columbia Transmission Corporation, presiding over the board of directors and assuming the responsibilities of the chief executive officer, Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources Minister Richard Neufeld announced today.

“This new structure will allow for a smooth transition in the BC Transmission Corporation’s corporate leadership,” said Neufeld. “David Emerson’s successful experience in both corporate sector and government makes him well-suited to lead the company.

“Chair Bob Reid has done a great job for all British Columbians, and although his term as chair ended at the end of September, we are pleased he has agreed to remain on the board to ensure a smooth transition with the new chair. Departing CEO Jane Peverett has equally shown dedicated leadership that has resulted in significant advances for the organization. Bringing on Mr. Emerson at this time will provide a strong transition and continuity for this important corporation.”

Emerson has served in numerous public and private capacities, including several federal government cabinet portfolios. Prior to his retirement from elected office, Emerson served as minister of foreign affairs, as minister of international trade and minister for the Pacific Gateway and the Vancouver-Whistler Olympics, and as minister of industry. David Emerson has also served as deputy minister of finance and deputy minister to the Premier in the government of British Columbia. He was first CEO of the Vancouver International Airport Authority, and served as president and CEO of Canfor prior to being elected as a federal MP for Vancouver.

Emerson has extensive experience from his service on numerous corporate boards, including Telus, Terasen Gas and BC Ferries. He was the first chair of the BC Progress Board, and has also served on the boards of the Canada West Foundation, the Forest Products Association of Canada and the Canadian Council of Chief Executives.

“The British Columbia Transmission Corporation is a critical part of B.C.’s energy strategy,” said Emerson. “British Columbia is already a North American leader in clean energy generation and transmission. I am looking forward to working closely with BC Hydro in further developing our province’s potential in opening up new opportunities for investment and family supporting jobs in clean energy.

“I welcome the opportunity to work with the highly skilled employees at the BC Transmission Corporation in developing cost-effective electricity transmission for B.C. residents, businesses and industry,” Emerson said. “We have enormous challenges in meeting British Columbian’s future transmission needs, but also terrific opportunities for new solutions that will turn our province into a true energy powerhouse.”

The BC Transmission Corporation is a provincial Crown corporation responsible for planning, operating and maintaining the province’s publicly owned electrical transmission system.

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Media contact:	Jake Jacobs Public Affairs Officer Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources 250 952-0628 250 213-6934 (cell)

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