MIKE de Jong, BC Liberal MLA for Abbotsford West, issued the following statement in response to what he says are misleading allegations by Attorney General David Eby regarding alleged wrongdoings at Hastings Racecourse:

“I was surprised and perplexed to learn that on August 27th, 2019, B.C. Attorney General David Eby suggested to the general public through the media that he had notified me as former Finance Minister of alleged immigration wrongdoings at Hastings Racecourse. No such notification occurred.

“On November 3rd, 2016, David Eby wrote to advise me he was contacted by a gaming worker from Fraser Downs Racetrack – a different location altogether – alleging possible illegal drug use by staff and concealment of this use.

“These allegations were taken seriously and George Morfitt, a highly respected former Auditor General, was asked to independently review the matter in question.

“At no time did Mr. Eby bring forward concerns or allegations related to immigration issues at Hastings or any other race track. His insinuation that he did is false and should be retracted.

“It is an honour and privilege to serve in the Office of the Attorney General. The individual entrusted to that office should never forget their obligation to conduct themselves to the highest possible standard and with the utmost integrity at all times. Mr. Eby has utterly failed to meet that standard.”