Swearing in ceremonies begin at B.C. legislature [Video]

Two newly elected members of British Columbia’s Green Party will officially take their seats in the legislature following the first of three swearing-in ceremonies since last month’s provincial election.

The two Greens — lawyer Rob Botterell, representing Saanich North and the Islands, and geological engineer Jeremy Valeriote, of West Vancouver-Sea to Sky, who were elected on Oct. 19 in a tight election race — could play pivotal roles in the legislature, where Premier David Eby’s New Democrats hold a slim one-seat majority.

John Rustad’s B.C. Conservatives, who captured 44 seats in last month’s election, were to be sworn in Tuesday evening in a second ceremony at the legislature.

Rustad said there was “a lot of excitement” among the party members.

“Everybody is, you know, very eager to get at it and start the work.”

Speaking to reporters earlier Tuesday, the Conservative leader touted diversity in his caucus, saying it includes …