Image: Heather Maahs / Chilliwack North MLA Heather Maahs stands with Kate Ryan-Lloyd, Clerk of the Legislative Assembly, after being sworn in Tuesday night (Nov. 12) in Victoria.

By Mike Vanden Bosch

Chilliwack MLAs sworn in

Chilliwack North MLA cherishes swearing-in ceremony, looks forward to serving the community

Nov 14, 2024 | 6:25 AM

VICTORIA — It was a moment Chilliwack North MLA Heather Maahs won’t forget.

She and Chilliwack-Cultus Lake MLA Á’a:líya Warbus took the oath of office Tuesday night (Nov. 12) alongside fellow Conservative Party Members of the Legislative Assembly in front of supporters, loved ones and extended family.

Maahs and Warbus were required to swear or affirm an oath to His Majesty King Charles III, his heirs and successors, according to law, before they could take their seat in the legislative house, engage in debates, and vote.

“What a privilege it was to be sworn in as a Member of the Legislative Assembly in this beautiful building, wrapped in years of historical relevance to this province,” Maahs said.

For Maahs, the moment was significant as nine of her family members were there to witness the historic occasion.

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Image: B.C. Legislature / Chilliwack North MLA Heather Maahs signs the Parliamentary Roll adjacent to Kate Ryan-Lloyd, Clerk of the Legislative Assembly.

“It was especially meaningful having my mom, two of my children and six of my grandchildren to witness the oath taking,” she said.

During the swearing-in ceremony, Maahs signed the Parliamentary Roll signifying she had taken the oath of allegiance to His Majesty. Since 1872, all Members of the Legislative Assembly have signed the Parliamentary Roll.

Maahs received 11,776 votes, or 54.6 per cent, ousting former MLA Dan Coulter, who garnered 8,125 votes, or 37.7 per cent, to become part of the 43rd Parliament.

She said she’s looking forward to meeting more of her neighbours in Chilliwack and elevating their concerns in Victoria.

“I am looking forward to meeting with the people of Chilliwack and bringing their issues, concerns and passions to the Legislature,” she said. “My thanks to the community for putting your trust in me to serve you.”

Her constituency office will be 1-45953 Airport Road, close to the Chilliwack RCMP detachment, the same office her predecessor held.