3rd member of BC Conservative Party quits to sit as independent

The BC Conservative Party is facing further turmoil as a third Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA), Rosalyn Bird, announced her departure from the caucus to sit as an independent.

Bird's decision follows similar moves by MLAs Ian Paton and Peter Milobar, making her the latest defector from the party in less than two weeks. In a statement, Bird described her decision as difficult and pointed to political infighting within the party as a primary reason for her leaving.

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it was a difficult decision

Party leader Kerry-Lynne Findlay acknowledged the ongoing defections during a press conference, even suggesting that more members might leave the caucus. Despite these departures, Findlay maintained that the party remains "robust," stating, "There have been no platform changes so far. There have been no policy changes. So while some may have made decisions on their own or wanting to be the leader, I do remind people this party is robust."

Bird's announcement came just two hours after Findlay's press conference, highlighting the immediate impact of the internal party dynamics. The series of defections raises questions about the party's stability and leadership as it navigates internal challenges.

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There have been no platform changes so far. There have been no policy changes. So while some may have made decisions on their own or wanting to be the leader, I do remind people this party is robust.