Surrey- Harry Bains, MLA for Surrey-Newton and Labour Minister, one of the best known and most respected politicians, announced on Thursday that he will not run in the next election. Bains, who has an excellent reputation in the community, was first elected in 2005, said in a statement:
“While this decision was not made lightly, I have decided to not run in the next election and allow someone new to continue the work we have begun.”
He added:
“When I first decided to run many years ago, I started with a mission to take action on human rights and workers’ rights. Under the leadership of premiers John Horgan and now David Eby, I am proud of the work we’ve accomplished and the difference we have made in people’s lives.
“Serving British Columbians and people in my community has been truly fulfilling, but now I am looking forward to spending more time with my loved ones who have stood by me during my time in public office. I could not have done any of this without them and their support.
“I want to thank all of my constituents in Surrey-Newton for putting their trust in me to represent this amazing community.
“I also want to thank Premiers Horgan and Eby for the opportunity to represent working people and all British Columbians as the Minister of Labour. Their leadership and vision have been instrumental in driving positive change across the province, and I have full confidence that Premier Eby will continue to make life better for all British Columbians.”
Bains was first elected in May 2005 and re-elected in 2009, 2013, 2017, and 2020. He has been Minister of Labour since 2017. He served on the Kwantlen University College board of governors from 1993-99, including as vice-chair for three years. He has also volunteered with community organizations, including Habitat for Humanity.
Harry has an extensive background in community service. He has been a life-long advocate for workers and human rights. He was an elected officer of Steelworkers-IWA Canada Local 2171 for more than 15 years. He served as vice-president of his local, where he led negotiations and engaged in bargaining for better working conditions for working people.
Harry Bains was born in the village of Hardaspur near Phagwara in Punjab, India. After completing his college education in Phagwara, he moved to Canada in 1971. Harry and his wife Rajvinder live in Surrey. They have two children, Kulpreet and Jasmeen.