John Gilbank carrying Liberal colours in York - Simcoe
by Bill Rea

John Gilbank has been taking a sabbatical from his business career, but he's ready to get busy again.

And the job he's seeking is York - Simcoe MPP.

Gilbank, 60, was acclaimed as Liberal candidate in the riding for this fall's provincial election in April.

Gilbank has had a multi-faceted career as a nationally recognized CEO, successful entrepreneur and diplomatic representative for Canada, and he believes he understands the challenges facing rural communities, having grown up in Listowel and now residing in Georgina. John and his wife Lynn have restored a heritage home and converted it into bed and breakfast.

"I started out by getting very heavily involved in the conservation that's required for Lake Simcoe," he remarked, adding he was frustrated by the ineffective efforts that were being made to deal with the problems there. He got involved in coming up with ways that the lake could be managed, and eventually drew attention and recognition from local Liberals.

Gilbank was CEO of C.E. Franklin Ltd., based out of Calgary, a supplier to the energy industry, and a provider of materials to other resource based industries. His diplomatic experience came early in his career, when he worked as a consul and trade commissioner, focusing on international trade strategies in the western United States.

Operating the bed and breakfast offered him "a chance to catch my breath," Gilbank said.

"The place was at the point of either bulldoze it or put a major restoration under way," he explained. "We chose the later."

Gilbank is a little cautious about speculating on the party's performance in the coming election.

"It all depends on how well we campaign," he commented, although he did assert the Liberals will remain in charge at Queen's Park.

"They really do have an impressive record," he remarked. "Now they have to roll it out and communicate it."

"I think people are ready for more energetic, a more proactive form of representation," he added.