Vaughn Palmer: The former Liberal cabinet minister had been named to the commission in 2015. Then-premier Christy Clark suddenly vetoed him
George Abbott, a former B.C. Liberal cabinet minister, has been appointed by the NDP as the provincial representative on the treaty commission, marking his return to the role after a controversial removal a decade ago. In 2015, Abbott was set to become the chief commissioner but was abruptly removed by then Premier Christy Clark, despite federal approval and praise from outgoing commissioner Sophie Pierre. This decision left Abbott humiliated and led to speculation that it was a political retaliation for his past leadership bid within the Liberal party. Premier Clark later apologized for the handling of the situation. Now, with his reappointment, Abbott, known for his experience in Indigenous relations, returns to the commission, reflecting on the irony of the situation with a touch of humor. His return is seen as a significant move, leveraging his extensive qualifications.
