Pubdate: Fri, 14 Aug 2009
Source: Metro (Halifax, CN NS)
Copyright: 2009 Metro Canada
Contact:  http://www.metronews.ca/Halifax
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/4727
Page: 1
Author: Jeff Hodson

EX-NDP HOPEFUL PROTESTS EXCLUSION

A former federal NDP candidate from B.C. plans to sit across the 
street from the party's convention in Halifax Friday morning with a 
sign that reads: "I was banned from the convention. Ask me why."

Dana Larsen, a marijuana advocate who ran as an NDP candidate during 
2008 federal election, claims he was escorted from Halifax's World 
Trade and Convention Centre Thursday on allegations he tried to buy 
delegate votes.

NDP national director Brad Lavigne confirmed Larsen was deregistered 
as a convention delegate earlier in the week.

"On a series of websites, he's been providing financial inducements 
for individuals to vote a certain way," said Lavigne. He added 
"bribes for votes" conflicts with the culture of democracy within the 
party and could put the NDP at risk under the Income Tax and Elections acts.

Larsen, who resigned as the NDP candidate for West Vancouver-Sunshine 
Coast in 2008 after a YouTube video surfaced of him driving while on 
acid and pot, said he never intended to get anyone to change their vote.

He contends he posted an offer online to help NDP delegates who were 
already supportive of drug policy reform with their travel and 
lodging expenses.

Larsen said he paid $2,000 on his credit card
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MAP posted-by: Keith Brilhart