Ex-MLA says appointment controversy 'playing politics'

Former New Brunswick cabinet minister Margaret-Ann Blaney spoke publicly on Wednesday for the first time about her controversial appointment as CEO of a Crown corporation.

Last May, then-energy minister Blaney resigned her Rothesay seatand wasappointed chief executive officerof Efficiency New Brunswick by Premier David Alwarda move that sparked public outrage and allegations of political patronage.

At the time, Blaney cited family reasons for her decision to leave politics.

Blaney's agency appeared at a committee of the legislature Wednesday morning.

She told reporters her appointment to the high-paying job was no different than those of other MLAs who quit to accept jobs.

"The process that I went through is exactly the same process that Elizabeth Weir went through, Bernard Richard. So the process is what it is. So they want to play politics with it," said Blaney.

Weir and Richard were both appointed by Premier Bernard Lord despite being from different political parties than Lord.

Blaney was a Progressive Conservative MLA appointed by PC Premier David Alward.

ThePCs have now agreed to introduce anNDP billforcing MLAs to wait a year after quitting before accepting an appointment. It's a rule that would have prevented Blaney's appointment.

ButBlaneysaid shewelcomes a debate on the new law.

"I think it's good to have the dialogue, and to have that discussion."