The Fight HST petition has been ruled as valid and the Chief Electoral Officer Craig James could proceed with sending it to the legislative committee.

In a press release last week, the NDP accused Peace River North MLA Pat Pimm and other Liberal MLAs of “hiding from democracy” for not meeting to discuss the petition.

New Democrat MLA Bill Routley of Cowichan Valley said Pimm needs to listen to the voters.

“There are more people who signed the petition than voted for him. Our view is that democracy has to mean something, and they certainly ought to be listening to their constituents on this matter.”

He had harsh words for the Liberal government.

“The Liberal government lied to the people of B.C. They did not come forward with their plan to introduce the HST as part of their election campaign. That’s why people are so mad.”

Pimm could not comment on the situation as of last week.

Liberal MLA Terry Lake of Kamloops said his party might not have been clear initially, but they are following correct procedures.

“All along we have said we will follow the petition process as laid out in law and that’s what we’re doing. An all-party committee will decide which option to choose. As convener, I’m not prepared to prejudge the process. We have acknowledged the HST could have been introduced in a better manner, but believe the long-term economic benefits of the HST are important to building a stronger B.C.”

Once the petition is forwarded to the legislative committee, they will have 30 days to meet and 90 days from that meeting to decide on one of two options laid out in legislation by the NDP: refer the petition to the legislature or hold a referendum.

If the petition goes to legislature, MLAs vote on the matter. In a referendum, B.C. residents will vote.

Routley hopes that the first option is done with the people in mind.

“In a standing vote of MLAs, it ought to be based on standing up for the constituents in their ridings. It would be simplest and easiest if the Liberal MLAs would know that their constituents are opposed to this and would vote with their constituents. Obviously, the people of B.C. would be happy with a referendum ballot on the issue as well.”