Clerk of the Legislative Assembly Craig James speaks to the media in Vancouver on Nov. 26, 2018. James trial for breach of trust began Monday morning in B.C. Supreme Court.
"Mr James was no ordinary employee. As the parliamentary equivalent of a CEO, he had a responsibility to the institution and the people of British Columbia to manage the affairs and resources of the legislature in an exemplary manner," said prosecutor David Butcher. Butcher then went on to explain the workings of government that saw James act as both an adviser to the house speaker and overseer of the 300 administrative employees who provide non-partisan support to the politicians tasked by voters to run the province.
"As the assembly is funded entirely and exclusively with public funds, the requirement of responsible financial stewardship is an an important component of the clerk's CEO position."The six-week trial will be conducted by Associate Chief Justice Heather Holmes — the same judge who recently concluded extradition proceedings against Huawei chief financial officer Meng Wanzhou.
James' successor, Kate Ryan-Lloyd, is expected to testify about a $118,916 retirement payment issued to her at the same time — a lump sum she voluntarily returned immediately.
He'll walk. There are no consequences for the wealthy in Canada.