KAMLOOPS, BC - Kamloops-North Thompson MLA Terry Lake announced today he will not be seeking re-election in 2017. Lake, who serves as Minister of Health, was first elected to the legislature in 2009 and re-elected in 2013.
“It has always been a great honour to represent the constituents of Kamloops and the North Thompson Valley,” said Lake. “This was not an easy decision for me and my family as we are part of a tremendous team locally and provincially that has accomplished a great deal to ensure a strong future for BC."
Lake was appointed Minister of Health in June of 2013 and served as Minister of the Environment from 2011 to 2013. Other roles included co-chairing the Ranching Task Force to help strengthen the ranching industry and leading the Sled Dog Task Force after the controversial destruction of sled dogs in Whistler following the 2010 Olympics. That work led to changes in legislation that resulted in the strongest animal protection laws in Canada.
“I am proud of local accomplishments such as infrastructure at Royal Inland Hospital, TRU and Norkam, and also helping to strengthen the communities of Sun Peaks, Barriere, and Clearwater,” said Lake. “I have been fortunate to lead ministries that I am passionate about and to work with first class colleagues in my caucus and in the public service."
Lake said he is one hundred per cent behind the BC Liberal government led by Premier Christy Clark, and will work hard in the upcoming election to help them secure a fifth mandate.
Lake said his highlights include being a part of hosting the 2010 Winter Olympics, helping to plan and build new hospital infrastructure in Kamloops, Penticton, Vancouver, and New Westminster, and helping to develop the five conditions for any new heavy oil pipelines through British Columbia.
Lake is on leave from the faculty at Thompson Rivers University and is a former Mayor and Councillor of the City of Kamloops.