Father, we bring before you Shane Simpson, MLA for Vancouver-Hastings and Opposition Spokesperson for Economic Development, Jobs, Labour and Skills. We ask that You would use MLA Simpson as a vessel through which to speak wisdom to the leadership of this province. We pray that he would be used to bring a balancing perspective in decisions that must be made and that he would be seen as a reliable resource to his colleagues. We ask You to direct his energies so that his efforts will have maximum impact in all that he undertakes. Bless him and his family with health and joy. We ask this in Jesus’ name.
Shane Simpson was re-elected as the MLA for Vancouver Hastings in May 2013. He was first elected to the Legislature in 2005.
Shane serves as Opposition Spokesperson for Economic Development, Jobs, Labour and Skills. During his time as MLA, he has also served as Caucus Chair and Opposition Critic for Labour, Housing and the Environment.
Born and raised in Vancouver, Shane has lived, worked, and engaged in community-building activities in East Vancouver for more than 45 years.
In his professional career, Shane has worked as the Director of Policy and Communications for Smart Growth BC, chair of the Vancouver City Planning Commission, an instructor in the Community Economic Development program at Simon Fraser University, Executive Director of the Worker Ownership Resource Center, Legislative Coordinator for the Canadian Union of Public Employees, coordinator and fundraiser for the Ray Cam Cooperative Center, Executive Assistant to former Vancouver East MP Margaret Mitchell, and as a self-employed consultant on business and economic development for labour, co-operative and non-profit groups.
Shane was the recipient of the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal for his contribution to community in 2002. In 1992, he was awarded the Governor General’s 125th Anniversary Commemorative Medal for Community Service.
Shane, his partner Cate Jones and their daughter Shayla, live in the Burrardview neighbourhood of Vancouver Hast