FORMER Minister of Education and MLA for Peace River South Mike Bernier was on Saturday announced as the new leader of CentreBC.

“I am stepping up to this role because, like so many British Columbians, the two parties on offer do not represent my values. I am excited to play a part in building a safer, more affordable, and more prosperous B.C.,” said Bernier.

“BC needs a socially progressive, fiscally responsible choice,” added Bernier. “A government that will promote economic growth while protecting our beautiful province for future generations. CentreBC is focused on the things that bring together so many British Columbians, that can bring together a broad coalition of builders and doers, rather than excluding anyone who does not pass a purity test. That is what will help create a new path forward for BC, one that is best for all British Columbians. This is what we are building with CentreBC.”

Bernier was appointed by CentreBC’s Executive Council through a leadership search after Founding Leader Karin Kirkpatrick resigned the leadership in June. Bernier will lead the party as it builds the foundation to compete in the next provincial election.

Bernier lives in Dawson Creek in the Peace River South Electoral District. He was elected to the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia in the 2013 provincial election, and reelected in 2017 and 2020. He served as Minister of Education, Parliamentary Secretary for Energy Literacy and the Environment for the Minister of Environment and, in opposition, as critic for housing and for finance. He was a city councillor from 2005–2008 and the mayor of Dawson Creek from 2008–2013. Bernier has worked in the oil and gas industry for more than 20 years.

Kirkpatrick introduced Bernier to the crowd of supporters. “Mike and I served together in the Legislature. He leads with integrity, common sense, and a genuine commitment to the people he serves,” said Kirkpatrick. “He understands both the opportunities and the challenges facing communities across British Columbia, and has the experience, temperament, and credibility to build a strong, province-wide movement. Mike is the right person to lead CentreBC as we offer British Columbians a socially progressive, fiscally responsible alternative to the tired NDP government and the hard-right BC Conservatives.”