Second B.C. grant program facing scrutiny amid conflict concerns [Video]

One of the B.C. government’s most recognizable programs is facing scrutiny, amid concerns about possible conflicts of interest in provincial grant administration.

Opposition parties are calling for a probe of the Buy BC program, an initiative meant to help promote local agricultural products.

The grant program is being administered by Canadian accounting firm MNP, while at the same time providing consulting services for the program’s three top recipients.

Documents obtained through freedom of information show the Wine Growers of B.C. received $75,000, the B.C. Chicken Marketing Board received nearly $66,000 and B.C. Food and Beverage received just over $45,000 in grants.

“This government has set some pretty loose policies around grant programs. It is our money and British Columbians want to know it is going to the right people,” BC Green Party House Leader Adam Olsen said.

“What type of safeguards does the government put in place with these contracts and what type of oversight …