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MLA hopes inquiry leads to people going

MLA hopes inquiry leads to people ‘going to jail’

May 17, 2019 | 6:00 AM

The Liberal MLA for Vernon-Monashee supports the NDP’s move for a public inquiry into money laundering.

Eric Foster says it’s what people what — and maybe it will get some answers — and see some people be brought to justice.

“I know our members who were in cabinet are prepared to cooperate with Justice Cullen in any way they possibly can, and maybe we get to the bottom of this and see some people go to jail that are actually committing the crimes,” Foster tells Beach Radio News.

Foster says without this kind of action, the criminals will just keep committing the illegal activity.

Inquiry head Justice Austin Cullen has two years to complete his final report.

“It’s very complicated and has so many levels. I hope Justice Cullen will be able to unravel it because he’s got very wide ranging powers and no timeline for how far back he can go. He could go back into the 70’s, 80’s or 90’s, whatever he wants to do, so that’s good,” says Foster.

Premier John Horgan didn’t set a budget for the process, but Foster feels Cullen will spend what’s necessary to get some answers.

“When you’re spending money, it’s always a concern, but if you’re going to do it, you’ve got to do it right,” adds Foster.