Experts on BC election 2020

The following University of Victoria experts are available to media for comment on the following aspects related to the provincial general election next month: 

Kate Moran (Ocean Networks Canada) is an expert in innovative ocean technology that supports marine protection, aquaculture and fisheries, earthquake early-warning, coastal communities and ecosystem health. She can also speak about ocean technology and BC marine industries, as well as ocean-based climate mitigation technologies and Canada’s role in a sustainable blue economy. (By email at kmoran@uvic.ca) 

Kimberly Speers (Public Administration) is a political expert who can comment on campaign strategies, polling, social media and communication strategies, comparison of party platforms, Vancouver Island ridings, crisis and issue management, election rules, and general party policy and process tactics and messaging. (By email at kspeers@uvic.ca) 

Mitchell Hammond (History) can speak to public sentiment during COVID-19 and other pandemics, with this particular election posing a challenge for public relations and data collection. He is an expert in the history of pandemics, history of vaccines and disease therapies, public health and popular culture. He can also offer historical perspective in comparing the current pandemic to the Spanish flu, polio and other epidemics. (By email at mlewham@uvic.ca) 

Rob Gillezeau (Economics) is an economist with expertise in public policy. He can speak to election issues that include COVID-19 economic recovery, fiscal policy, social programs such as child care, labour market programs, taxation and tax expenditures, as well as how policies can affect Indigenous Peoples. (By email at gillezr@uvic.ca)  

Simon Pek (Gustavson School of Business) is an expert in sustainability and organizational theory. He can speak about policies regarding workers, with particular emphasis on worker rights and the gig economy. (By email at spek@uvic.ca) 

Will Greaves (Political Science) is an expert in international relations. He can comment on how the BC election relates to Canada-US relations and the ongoing closure of the border due to COVID-19. He can also comment on policies related to climate change and the energy sector, as well as the impact on Indigenous Peoples. (By email at wgreaves@uvic.ca)