Courtesy - Drew Barnes Facebook/Twitter

By Chantal Wagner

Barnes releases statement following UCP Caucus ejection

May 14, 2021 | 5:40 AM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – Cypress-Medicine Hat MLA Drew Barnes says despite the events of last night, his first duty is to represent the concerns and interests of the families and communities in his constituency.

Barnes was kicked out of the UCP Caucus along with Central Peace-Notley MLA Todd Loewen Thursday night.

Barnes released a statement on his social media platforms.

He says he is saddened by the events, but he is not surprised.

“Many members of caucus have tried, in vain, to help the Premier make better decisions in recent weeks and months,” he wrote.

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Barnes will sit as an Independent and is also disappointed the vote was not conducted by secret ballot.

“The United Conservative Party was meant to be a team, but the leader of a team must also respect the rest of the team. I supported unity and continued to work within the parameters of the caucus to represent my constituents. However, the views of my constituents were ignored, and the man who campaigned on servant leadership no longer exist,” Barnes wrote.

He adds that he will not let the events silence him as the representative for Cypress-Medicine Hat.

READ MORE: MLA DREW BARNES OUT OF UCP CAUCUS

Barnes’ full statement can be read here:

Courtesy – Drew Barnes Facebook/Twitter