Fort Langley-Aldergrove MLA Rich Coleman, who is currently deputy premier and minister of natural gas development, as well as minister responsible for housing, has taken on yet another role — military liaison with the Canadian Armed Forces.
“By establishing a military liaison, we are making sure military services are better integrated to serve the people of British Columbia,” said Premier Christy Clark, in announcing the appointment.
In his role as liaison deputy premier, Coleman will interface with the military within B.C. He will work to improve the lines of communication, strengthen joint emergency response and the co-ordination of resources.
“I’m honoured to take on this new provincial liaison role,” said Coleman.
“Military personnel provide an important service in B.C. and I look forward to working together to improve the safety and protection of British Columbians.”
The Canadian Armed Forces employ more than 12,000 military and civilian personnel in B.C. There are eight major military bases in the province, including the Canadian Forces Base (CFB) in Esquimalt, as well as 12 militia units throughout B.C.
Aldergrove is home to a military communications centre.
“On behalf of the Canadian Armed Forces, I congratulate and thank the premier and the Government of B.C. for appointing a military liaison,” said Rear-Admiral Bill Truelove, Commander of Maritime Forces Pacific and Joint Task Force Pacific. “British Columbia has a long and proud military history. I look forward to working closely with Minister Coleman to build upon the support and services available within B.C. for our military members — regular and reserve, veterans, cadets and military families.”