Universities are, or at least are reported to be, open minded environments.
Hopefully the rejection of
Mr. Moore as UNBC chancellor is not that he was a Conservative.
Hopefully it is because he, like too many of today's elite, proved to be a follower, not a leader.
And carrying this hopefulness a little further, let us hope this is a sign that we, as a society, are leaning toward placing leaders in leadership positions, rather than well-educated, well-connected followers who are driven with self-interest.
Having a follower in a leading position, while very beneficial to the follower, is of little value to those they promise to represent.
Not making party waves allows followers like Mr. Moore to gain for themselves a larger pension and retain their party's esteem, which often pays off handsomely, in appointments after they leave politics.
Had Mr. Moore served Canadians like Paul Nettleton, than
Mr. Moore would be a good choice for chancellor.
Paul Nettleton, during the sale of BC Rail, chose to serve his riding and constituents, rather than the provincial Liberal Party of the day.
The difference between a
Mr. Moore and a Mr. Nettleton is vast; representation wise.
First Mr. Moore, retained his party's esteem, obtained a better pension and quit when he wanted because he played "Follow the Leader" and played it well.
Mr. Nettleton's decision to stand-up for his constituents, cost him his reputation as a loyal Liberal plus his seat in caucus. If Mr. Nettleton wished to continue serving his constituency efficiently, he was forced to cross the floor and become an independent member of the Legislation. Not much chance of freebee appointments by his one-time Liberal allies. Leadership can be very expensive.
Followers are plentiful, quality leaders are not.
Offer Mr. Nettleton the position.
If for no other reason, offer it as a token of Northern B.C.'s esteem for what Mr. Nettleton did or tried to do for us northerners, while in the Legislature. Mr. Nettleton dared to do what most politicians will not: be a leader: represent his constituents.
Unfortunately, the final decision is probably going to be made by followers.
Bill Barnes, Prince George
