1979 Legislative Session: 4th Session, 31st Parliament

HANSARD

The following electronic version is for informational purposes only.

The printed version remains the official version.

Official Report of

DEBATES OF THE LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY

(Hansard)

FRIDAY, MARCH 23, 1979

Morning Sitting

[ Page 9 ]

CONTENTS

Routine proceedings

Presenting petitions.

Amendment to Vancouver city charter. Mr. Levi — 10

Presenting reports.

Royal Commission on the BGR report, volumes 1, 2, 3 and 4. Hon. Mr. Curtis

— 10

Ministry of Mines and Petroleum Resources annual report, 1977. Hon. Mr. Hewitt

— 10

B.C. Energy Commission annual report as at December 31,1978. Hon. Mr. Hewitt

— 10

Throne speech debate.

Mrs. Jordan — 11

Mr. Kerster — 19

Presenting reports.

Labour Relations Board of B.C. annual report. Hon. Mr. Williams —

Ministry of Labour annual report. Hon. Mr. William — 25

Worker's Compensation Board of B.C. sixty-second annual report. Hon. Mr.

William; — 25

FRIDAY, MARCH 23, 1979

The House met at 10 a.m.

Prayers.

HON. MRS. McCARTHY: I have two introductions to make today.

First, I would like to ask the House to welcome the president of the

British Columbia Social Credit Party, and the board of directors.

I would be pleased if you would also welcome from the constituency

of Mackenzie a member who sat in this House. Mrs. Isobel Dawson is in

the gallery, and it's fitting that she should be here on the eve of the

annual meeting of the senior citizens' counsellors, which Mrs. Dawson

initiated, and who have done a tremendous job in serving the senior

citizens of British Columbia. I'd ask the House to welcome them all.

HON. MR. VEITCH: Mr. Speaker, I would like to introduce to

you and through you some very wonderful people who are here this

morning: Dr. Jim and Mrs. Beverly Grant, Mr. Don Roff, Doreen Roff, my

constituency secretary, and my good wife, Sheila.

MR. BARBER: From the great neighbourhood of James Bay in the

city of Victoria we have five guests here this morning. They are Bev

Blackburn, her son, Sidney Blackburn, and their friends, Debbie

Fielding, Lindy Loy and Lee Lucas. I ask the House to make them welcome.

MRS. JORDAN: At last, at last. I'm sure you will be pleased

to know that there are some very special guests in the gallery from the

North Okanagan: Mr. and Mrs. Jack Simpson of Vernon and Dr. Ted Jordan

of Vernon. One, of course, will be keenly listening to the debate this

morning. I would ask the House to extend them a very warm welcome.

MR. KEMPF: In the gallery with us today are three very fine

people from that great constituency of Omineca: my good wife, Shirley,

and Mr. and Mrs. Steve Himech. I would ask the House to make them

welcome.

HON. MR. SHELFORD: I would like to welcome my good wife in

the gallery today. Coming from the far north, we don't see that much of

each other anymore. Also, I would like to welcome Gail Tompson from

Smithers, Diane Beblow from Hazelton, my daughter Ann and three friends.

MR. BARRETT: Mr. Speaker, the history of this province in the last hundred

years is largely condensed to the legislative process as we know it. In that

short period of a hundred years a number of notable things have happened, and

in that process we have limited contact with the past. I would like the House

to acknowledge the fact that today is the hundredth anniversary of the birth

of one of the most active politicians in this House. That was E.E. Winch, a

pioneer in our particular party and a pioneer activist in the political life

of British Columbia.

MR. ROGERS: This being the year of the child and the family,

I thought it would be appropriate if on this day my children and the

family could attend, and my two young sons, who asked me not to

introduce them, are in the gallery. They are Mark and Ryan who have

been wondering for some time what I'm actually doing here. This is

their first visit to the chamber, and I'm delighted to introduce them.

They are accompanied by their mother, her mother and a nephew who comes

from a small village in Wales that I couldn't pronounce, and I wouldn't

want Hansard to try to spell. I would ask the House to make them all

welcome.

HON. MR. HEWITT: It is my pleasure this morning to ask the

House to welcome two of my constituents from a place that we

affectionately call the sunshine valley — Boundary-Similkameen, the

Grand Forks area. I would ask the House to welcome Mr. and Mrs. Bill

Kootnekoff.

MR. STEPHENS: May I introduce three people who are close to

me: Commander Alex Kilpatrick, a good friend and helper, my new

constituency secretary, Miss Judy Brunt, and a lady from North

Vancouver–Seymour who is seeking the seat open over there and is here

today to take a look and see just exactly where she's going to be

sitting in early June, Joy Gilmore.

HON. MR. PHILLIPS: Mr. Speaker, it is my great pleasure today

to ask the House to welcome two constituents of mine from the great

South Peace River constituency, specifically from Chetwynd, the future

coal capital of the world, Mr. and Mrs. John Jacklin.

MR. LLOYD: I'd like to ask the House to join me in welcoming

the director for Social Credit for region 7 covering the northern half

of the province: Ron Bellamy, from Prince George.

MR. LEVI: Mr. Speaker, I would ask the House to welcome Mr. Bruce Erikson of the Downtown Eastside Residents Association.

[ Page 10 ]

HON. MR. GARDOM: Mr. Speaker, I know that the hon. members

are anxiously expecting me to once again celebrate a parliamentary

custom of this Legislature. I think it most appropriate that I do it

this morning by bidding welcome to each and every member of the gallery

who has not yet been welcomed.

MR. SPEAKER: Hon. members, that includes Little Red, who is here today.

MR. LEVI: Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to present a petition.

Leave granted.

MR. LEVI:

"To the Honorable Legislative Assembly of the Province

of British Columbia in the Legislature assembled, the petition of the

undersigned residents of the city of Vancouver, British Columbia,

humbly showeth:

"On October 31,1978, the mayor and aldermen of the

city of Vancouver, British Columbia, in council assembled, debated and

approved a motion that the wording of a proposed advertisement

pertaining to the electoral reform plebiscite contain the following

information and commitments to the voters of the city of Vancouver,

British Columbia:

"Information for Vancouver voters on electoral reform:

At the civic elections on November 15,1978, the Vancouver city council

will ask the voters whether they wish to elect aldermen to the city

council at large or by wards.

"At large system: under the at large system you vote

for ten candidates to fill the seats on city council. The council is

then made up of the ten candidates who receive the highest number of

votes across the whole city.

"Ward system: under the ward system you vote for the

candidate or candidates you think will best represent your ward an city

council. The council then would be made up of representatives from each

ward.

"Should the majority of voters indicate they prefer a ward system, the following would occur:

"1. Council would appoint a committee to consider and

report on the number of wards, boundaries of each ward and any other

related matters.

"2. Application would be made by council to the provincial government to amend the city charter.

"3. If granted by 1980, you would then elect aldermen to council by wards.

"A facsimile of the ballot the voters will receive on November 15 is reproduced below for their information.

"Signed R. Henry, City Clerk.

"The advertisement was published in all major

publications in Vancouver on November 10,1978. The results of the

November 15,1978, electoral reform plebiscite for the city of Vancouver

showed that 46,525 or 51.51 percent of the Vancouver voters are in

favour of the ward system for electing aldermen to the Vancouver city

council; 6.21 percent more voters cast ballots in favour of the wards

than for the at large system.

"In effect, only 21 of the 132 city-wide polls are in

favour of the present undemocratic at-large system of electing aldermen

to Vancouver city council. The democratic expression of opinion by

voters of Vancouver and the explicit commitments by the city of

Vancouver to the voters of Vancouver, which were published in the

November 10,1978, advertisement, are being ignored by the newly elected

city council, which has a majority who are opposed to the ward system

requested by the majority of Vancouver voters and promised by the city

of Vancouver in the event that the plebiscite passed.

"Wherefore your petitioners humbly pray that this honourable

House may be pleased to amend the Vancouver city charter to provide for the

election of city council, school and parks boards by neighbourhoods, wards,

areas or constituencies. And, as in duty bound, your petitioners will ever pray."

It's dated March 23,1979. It's signed by Bruce Yorke, Alderman Harry

Rankin, Bruce Eriksen, Elizabeth Davies, Dr. David Schreck, Dr. Polly

Weinstein, Jean Swanson, David Lane, David Stone, Johnnie Rankin, Pat

Wilson, Shawn Hatch, Doug Laalo, Deborah Lewis, Sol Jackson, Vjal

Dussanjh, Carmella Quail, Atiba Saunders.

Presenting reports.

Hon. Mr. Curtis presented the report of the Royal Commission on the

British Columbia Railway, volumes 1, 2, 3 and 4, which was taken as

read and received.

Hon. Mr. Hewitt presented the Ministry of Mines and Petroleum

Resources annual report 1977 and the annual report from the B.C. Energy

Commission for the year ended December 31,1978, which were taken as

read and received.

Orders of the day.

[ Page 11 ]

SPEECH FROM THE THRONE

MRS. JORDAN: It's nice to see so many happy faces across the way thoroughly and obviously endorsing the Speech from the Throne.

Mr. Speaker, it is with a sense of excitement and commitment that I have the

privilege of presenting to you, an behalf of the people of North Okanagan and

British Columbia, and the government of this province, the following motion,

seconded by the hon. member for Coquitlam (Mr. Kerster):

We, Her Majesty's

most dutiful and loyal subjects, the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia,

in session assembled, beg leave to thank Your Honour for the gracious speech

which Your Honour has addressed to us at the opening of the present session.

The members of the assembly, Mr. Speaker, join with me to extend a

formal and warm welcome to His Honour on the assumption of his high

office, and we would wish him divine guidance and sensitivity as the

representative of Her Majesty the Queen in the province of British

Columbia. We certainly express our pleasure as we look forward to

working with him for the benefit of every man, woman and child in our

province and country.

You would appreciate knowing that His Honour has already visited

many regions of the province, and among them the constituency of North

Okanagan, where he was warmly received and made many friends. While he

was there I couldn't help but think how fortunate we are to live in a

province where the Queen's representative, children, government

officials and others can mingle freely. It's a good feeling today where

we have a free parliament and can carry out all the people's business

without fear. What a priceless right. We must protect that right. You

can't put a value on this type of freedom.

I know, Mr. Speaker, that you share with His Honour, the people of

British Columbia — the members of this Legislature, I am sure, will

join with me — and our Premier, the sadness and sense of loss that all

of us experienced at the death of British Columbia's greatest Premier

to this time, certainly one of Canada's outstanding leaders and

citizens, the Hon. W.A.C. Bennett. This Legislature was poorer

yesterday, because for the first time, you will recall, in over 30

years he wasn't with us on the floor as His Honour presented the

message that is, I believe, destined to become a major historical

document in our province. But somehow our sadness is tempered by the

knowledge that we were so fortunate to have benefited from his vision

and his leadership, not only economically and socially, but

philosophically and spiritually. Many of us enjoyed his friendship and

his good humour.

You know, Mr. Speaker, during his time of office he had a way of

making us feel proud to be British Columbians and Canadians. He

instilled in most of us the confidence that we needed to achieve what

is good and right for the individual person. He loved people, and

people loved him.

Richer? Yes, I believe British Columbia is much richer for his life

and his dedicated time with us. The spirit of the man, the tangible

benefits of his leadership and his legacy to us — oh, some would

squander that legacy, but the majority will learn from experience and

use that legacy of spirit and philosophy, of compassion and dedication,

as a foundation upon which to build this province and increase the

quality of life for all British Columbians.

I think he would have enjoyed, in a sense, the tributes paid to him.

But I also believe that in accepting the praise, he'd say to us today:

"Dig in and roll up your sleeves and get on with the job." Mr. Speaker,

that's what the Speech from the Throne does.

I mentioned that this will be a major historical document. I say

this because a review of many throne speeches from British Columbia and

elsewhere reveal that never before has there been a throne speech which

so clearly outlines the consistent philosophy and explains so fully the

objectives of a government through the detail of programs for the

coming year. The emphasis is on those priceless rights, such as freedom

and opportunity, personal dignity and social justice. These are

extremely important to British Columbians.

We all agree that individuals in this House sit as honourable

members carrying a common bond — the heavy responsibility of elected

office, with an obligation to serve the people of British Columbia. We

also agree that there are two ways to approach government, and this is

where the members divide. There is our way, which is to respect the

rights of the individual. This is the essence of individual democracy:

to make what is morally right, humanly desirable, the prerogative of

the individual; and to protect in legislation those human values, which

are priceless and so often taken for granted until it is too late and

they have been subtly lost.

We believe the state is the servant of the people. The people of

British Columbia must never be the servants of a coercive state, and we

trust the people.

To the socialists the solution to all problems lies in government

control, government ownership, and they would discourage indivi-

[ Page 12 ]

dual ownership and initiative. They would create and maintain people's dependency on the state, and that is state control.

This Speech from the Throne clearly enunciates the principles by

which governments should govern in a free society: these are the

principles which members on this side of the House have brought to the

responsibilities of government today. We emphasize the rights of the

individual and the responsibilities of the individual, the privileges

of the individual and the opportunities for the individual.

Our philosophy of individual enterprise and freedom of choice has

been realized in a number of ways, such as the first family home

program, which gives government assistance to families who are buying

their first home. With the elevation of small businesses to a special

ministry, there will be a positive force and an advocate on behalf of

small business in the private sector.

In education this government had the courage of its convictions, and

introduced the funding of independent schools to offer freedom of

choice. Our members even spoke on the subject.

In mining we repealed the crippling Mineral Act and revised the

Mining Act, and established an incentive program directed towards the

independent prospector and small exploration companies. This presented

the incentive and opportunity for the little guy to get started. The

first grant was made to a little prospector in Sicamous, and that's a

fine little town in this province. The future of the mining industry in

British Columbia has never been brighter than today, and never have

there been more individuals involved.

Our Premier promised, if elected, to make provincial government more

accountable to the people of British Columbia, and he did. He said he

would let the sun shine in — that was the classic statement of the

Geritol Kid over there, if I recall correctly — so that the taxpayers

of this province would know what moneys are being spent and how.

Our Finance minister introduced for the first time in British

Columbia a system whereby he reports to the people not just once a year

but four times a year.

For the first time in British Columbia's history we now have an

auditor-general who, unlike other auditors-general, is accountable to

the people, not to government. The people's right to know is protected.

The Premier said: "The rights of people in relation to the Crown

corporations must be secured in the same way." With this conviction, he

established the Committee on Crown Corporations. When he introduced the

Act that established the committee, the Premier rightly pointed out

that we are not alone in British Columbia in wrestling with the problem

of a growing number of Crown corporations and the increasing impact

that they are having on people's lives. But the question was how to

make Crown corporations more accountable to the Legislature, to these

members and to the people.

It is only our government in Canada that has come to grips with the

problem by establishing this unique concept for Crown corporation

accountability with a very powerful legislative committee which has

excited interest in other parts of Canada and the free world. I might

add that it has excited the Crown corporations as well. The

significance of this committee will not be lost on the members of this

Legislature. Now, for the first time, individual members of the

Legislature have the opportunity to examine the management and

influence the direction of our British Columbia Crown corporations.

Already as a result of the activities, the research, the hearings and

the recommendations a number of changes have been made, not the least

of which is the action as the result of the corporation's report on

Hydro transit. Urban transit and its debts have been removed from B.C.

Hydro and the light bills of the people of this province. The committee

will shortly file a most interesting report on the construction

management of the Columbia River Treaty projects.

Mr. Speaker, because of the nature and size of Crown corporations,

and the complexity of most of the operations of the service they

provide today, it is very easy for them to overlook their

responsibilities to the individual. You'll agree it's very easy for

them to forget that they, too, are in fact the servants of the people,

that they exist to provide service to people. It is these people who

pay for those services and justify that corporation's existence. Our

government, through the establishment of the Committee on Crown

Corporations, has taken a major step to establish the right of people

of British Columbia to full accountability and knowledge of management

practices of their Crown corporations.

In referring back to the throne speech's philosophy, and our

government's belief in the opportunity and responsibilities of private

and individual ownership, His Honour outlined that the members would

have the responsibility to endorse the transfer of regulatory

jurisdiction for the B.C. Telephone Company from the federal government

to the province of British Columbia. This act would bring home to

British Columbia citizens, for the first time, a direct opportunity

under provincial law to

[ Page 13 ]

respond to rate increases proposed by B.C. Telephone.

His Honour also correctly stated that our government believes the

ultimate freedom and security for Canadians rests in the right and

responsibility of individuals to guide their own destiny — the right of

individual ownership, whether personal, home, farm or business. The

country's resources should never be surrendered to government. We see

countries around us where people have lost these precious freedoms. It

can happen so quickly, and so subtly, without people realizing. Before

the people are aware of their losses, it is frequently too late.

They've lost their freedoms and their rights because of apathy. We

realize that there are others who promote the theory that people are

not to be trusted and are not to have responsibility. We on this side

of the House reject that philosophy absolutely. We believe in people.

People are first-class citizens with first-rate ideas, entitled to

freedom of opportunity, entitled to individual ownership.

These principles underline many new Acts proposed for this session.

One of the most notable, the amendment to the British Columbia

Resources Investment Corporation Act, has had an interesting reaction.

As you know, this share distribution program gives eligible British

Columbians direct ownership in the wealth and riches they helped

create. The shares give people an opportunity to take

part in many

facets of the economic growth in this province. This government means

what it says. This is an example of one of the positive approaches to

our philosophy.

Because of this Act, every man, woman and child will be able to see

and feel their ownership in the form of a tangible certificate. Such an

opportunity will help people develop a greater understanding and

participation with the individuals and the capital involved in creating

new or expanding business. They'll have a better understanding of how

the utilization of these dollars and the management of these businesses

has a direct effect on the competitiveness of the company and how jobs

are maintained and created. The shares will help people become more

knowledgeable about the free market system. They'll develop a feeling

of pride in those companies in which they have a share. That is what

makes a strong country and a strong people.

It is interesting that the shares are already stimulating people's

thinking. Most of us are getting questions that would rival those of a

stockbroker. Teachers tell me young people are particularly stimulated,

and they are asking their teachers and parents and each other: "What is

share capital? What is earnings ratio? What does book value mean?"

Young people are excited about the possibility of direct ownership, a

real stake in their province's future.

Token ownership, government ownership, can never inspire young

people to this type of action. Of course the socialists are opposed on

philosophical grounds. They simply don't want individual ownership.

They want power for themselves, not for the people. They became

intoxicated by power when they were in government, and they crave power

today. Look at the record. When they were in government, in the

interests of power and squelching individual opportunity, they scuttled

the mining industry. They made a land grab. They undermined the forest

industry, and they profoundly threatened the individual security of the

people of this province. Never again.

Hungry today, look where they stand. In one breath they tell the

people of British Columbia that the BCBC shares are gimmicks, but in

the other breath they tell their NDP membership to take their shares

and hand them over to the party. The socialist party obviously that

wants these shares isn't offering to buy them from the individuals, as

they would have to do in an open and free market. Do they want to take

them away from their people? The second member for Victoria (Mr.

Barber) spoke in Vernon recently. He was delightful. He began by

vigorously knocking the shares of BCRIC and the plan. But then he

gathered his courage and explained he would reluctantly take the

shares, and would bravely buy another 95 shares so that he could go to

the annual meetings and ask the board embarrassing questions.

It is hard not to imagine that the statements of that member, the second member for Victoria, are an embarrassment at any time.

Interjections.

MR. SPEAKER: Hon. members, we are in the throne speech and,

as I understand it, we will have an opportunity to speak in turn.

Perhaps we should not all speak at once.

MRS. JORDAN: Mr. Speaker, the second member for Victoria's

actions could be no more embarrassing than the amazing performance of

his own leader.

HON. MR. BENNETT: Which leader?

MRS. JORDAN: Not Mr. Kinnaird. The leader of the NDP who

isn't in this House at this time, or most other times. First he said

that if the NDP government came to power before the shares

[ Page 14 ]

were issued, he would stop it. But if the shares

were distributed before the NDP returned, he would secure them back.

Now, he says, having caught the wind of public opinion, an NDP

government would certainly not take back what the people own. What a

philosophical commitment. What political ingenuity! What a hunger for

control — flip-flop. The waffle is soggy and the pancake is flat and

tasteless.

After all, the money's in. The hon. member for Alberni (Mr. Skelly)

was a delight. He called the shares "worthless shares in a worthless

government." He doesn't even know that they're in companies, not

government. However, his constituency executive, who of course support

him fully, would like to see the NDP gain a controlling interest in the

company. The member for Revelstoke-Slocan (Mr. King) also advocated a

similar policy. The Conservative leader, Joe Clark, and Conservative

finance critic, Sinclair Stevens, rightly considered the BCRIC proposal

one of the most exciting and innovative policies in recent history.

They're discussing the BCRIC shares as a model for federal

corporations, but where is the member for Oak Bay (Mr. Stephens)? He

decided in the opposite direction. At least, he had last week. He's

making medical history proving that Siamese twins can't get along. Have

you ever noticed that the more Joe strides ahead, the member for Oak

Bay has trouble keeping up with going backwards?

Some members of this House have been concerned for years about the

ability of individuals to protect themselves, or seek fair return when

they become innocently involved in expropriation proceedings. In fact,

some of us on a committee brought in a report in the early seventies.

But not until now has a government had the courage to act. We will soon

have a fair-compensation statute that will ensure the rights of the

individual whose lands, homes or business may be expropriated by the

public or private sector.

This government's commitment to the priceless right of the

individual will be made stronger. A bill of rights guaranteeing

fundamental freedoms to all our citizens, and repeal of the obsolete

statutes Act, will be the red tape machete. Victims of this machete

will be antiquated laws and costly and frustrating procedures that have

eroded rights of business and citizen. The machete will go after the

triplicate forms and unnecessary regulations that inhibit all our

freedom. They'll feel the blade.

You'll be pleased to know that ICBC rates are now the best non-subsidized

auto insurance premiums in Canada. This one-step-ridden jungle of confusion

is now a well-managed, streamlined and self-supporting operation. More changes

are needed, and more will be made.

Interjection.

MRS. JORDAN: Say, listen, you financier. Rate reductions have

been possible. You'd rather give it all to the big corporations so the

rates could go up and they'd have control. We don't believe in anyone's

vested interests, just the public's interest.

We'll now be able to ensure that the individual rights are protected

by applying more fully the principle that good drivers should not be

penalized because of age, sex, marital status or geographic location.

The good news for young people is that in the future they will no

longer carry a penalty just because they have the good fortune to be

young. Young people have a right to expect fair assessment. We intend

to ensure in legislation that the right is there.

Conversely it should be clear that the same young people will bear

the responsibility that is companion to, or goes hand in hand with,

individual rights. Their premiums, as anyone else's, will reflect the

way they exercise their right to drive and be insured, without

discrimination of age.

Speaking of young people, I'd like to call to mind the subject of

children. It was a delight to see so many children on the lawn

yesterday, taking part and sitting where the laws are made, where their

futures are being moulded and melded. You'll be pleased to know that

the International Year of the Child and Family, unlike many other

jurisdictions, will be a major year in British Columbia.

A cornerstone of our philosophy is the strength of the family unit.

As a major measure of society, the degree of an individual security,

and confidence within that society, is based on the strength of that

family unit. Such a statement calls to mind comments by Mr. Justice

Berger, who's quoted in Vancouver on March 1979 as saying: "The law

offers virtually no protection to the family as a social institution."

In fact, he suggested that the family is less protected than

corporations and trade unions. It's not our intention in supporting

family life, either dual or single parent, to have government take over

either the rights or responsibilities of parents and children. It is

our intention to afford the family and children the same opportunities

that are enjoyed by others. In doing this we must remember that the

integrity of the family unit is very fragile. The family

[ Page 15 ]

relationship is very personal, and our objectives will be achieved through respecting the independent family concept.

[Mr. Rogers in the chair.]

Our objective is to offer the necessary support programs and

legislation that will help each individual within a distressed family

unit to develop a feeling of confidence and a feeling of self-worth.

How can you really put a value on family, the sanctity of the family

and the fragility of the family? One can't legislate all facets of

concern, but part of the objective will be supported by specific

legislation, much of which was mentioned by His Honour in the throne

speech. We will, Mr. Speaker, while respecting the rights and the

responsibilities of family members, and the freedom of the family,

assist independence and self-support to whatever extent possible. This

is part of this government's Year of the Child expectations, and our

concerns for those precious rights — I know I keep using the term

"precious," but they are, because you can't really put your finger on

them, and yet without them you have nothing — and the opportunities for

families.

Mr. Speaker, along with this the throne speech made clear, and I

would like to make clear, that this government believes strongly in

social justice. Our government, since taking office in 1975, has

embarked on one of Canada's most well-coordinated, affordable and

first-class social service programs. This is a program involving the

ministries — not in isolation and without planning, but in a

coordinated program — of Human Resources, Education, Health, Labour and

the Attorney-General. We've made major advances relating to equality of

the individual to date, and they're exemplified by the Family Relations

Act which, as His Honour mentioned, will be companioned by a number of

new or amended Acts and programs which will acknowledge and assist,

among others, the long-forgotten single-parent family, and emphasize

expanded opportunities for handicapped children, and the Wills Act, to

mention but a few that he mentioned in the throne speech.

Our Human Resources minister (Hon. Mrs. McCarthy) once again led the

way in Canada in providing assistance to those in need when she

recently announced a $31 million increase in basic income assistance,

with a major portion of that money, Mr. Speaker, going to families.

Mr. Speaker, when you speak of social justice, you have to acknowledge also

that individuals cannot be independent and cannot be secure if they're plagued

by ill-health and high associated costs, or lack of appropriate treatment as

near as possible to their homes and families. His Honour mentioned that during

the past 12 months more than 40,000 people have benefited from our government's

new long-term care program. Today those needing long-term care — I must say this,

and I'm trying not to be emotional; as you know, I am a nurse and my family

is involved in medicine, so this is a subject very dear to our hearts because

we see the sad side — are housed in cheerful, well-equipped units, where care

and attention to the individual is the policy. The days of back-breaking costs

of two years ago to families of these patients are days now gone, and I say

goodbye to them.

There's been an end to discrimination in Pharmacare with the

adoption of a universal Pharmacare program, and this has benefited many

people. Few in British Columbia today face major fears because of the

high cost of drugs or health care.

The commitment of the Ministry of Health to spend $100 million a

year for the next seven years is very exciting. There are 58 projects,

either under construction or in the planning stages: projects such as

the new hospital in Victoria; massive development and expansion of the

Vancouver General Hospital — having trained there I find that very

exciting for the people; a new children's hospital after 25 years of

indecision; the additions and renovations to the British Columbia

Cancer Institute that people, unfortunately, need so badly all around

the province. This is just a few, but they are exciting.

Of particular interest to my own constituency of North Okanagan,

which I have the honour to represent, are plans now underway for major

acute-care, long-term care, Delview and service centre expansion. This

approximately $4 million project is the result of recommendations of a

special study of projected needs for health-care facilities in the

North Okanagan Regional Hospital District which was, incidentally, paid

for by the government, and we thank them.

The health aspects of all the health facility construction will be

complemented, Mr. Speaker, by the creation of short- and long-term

jobs, and capital infusion into local areas of this province,

everywhere in this province. In a sense, you have wealth through health

and jobs through health.

The citizens of North Okanagan have asked me to express, through

you, Mr. Speaker, their enjoyment and appreciation for the government's

help and support for McCullagh Court and NORIC House, both of which

were just completed.

[ Page 16 ]

The government is, as you know, increasing its emphasis on

preventive health care, shorter hospital stays and more home treatment.

This means, I believe, an expanded role for health units throughout the

province. Thus we'll see new health clinics in Nanaimo, Kamloops,

Terrace, Vernon, Prince George, Golden, Comox and Valemount. North

Okanagan is eagerly awaiting the go-ahead with their Neurological

Society's Children's Unit. We have long-range plans to coordinate with

other services to develop what we hope will be a form of children's and

family assessment centre. This in a sense is justice for people.

I must say — and I hope you won't mind — that I believe one of the

happiest people in this Legislature yesterday when His Honour made

reference to the fact that while British Columbia enjoys the best and

most responsible health care system in Canada, we will initiate a new

comprehensive dental care program.... I believe the happiest person in

this House was the hon. Premier. He has wanted many things for British

Columbia, but he particularly wanted dental health. At the Social

Credit leadership convention he committed himself to start a dental

care program as soon as he could.

As the members know, the Premier appreciates good health, and

believes in preventive health care and physical fitness — even if it

kills his members. [Laughter.] I just have to tell you this, and I hope

you won't mind, Mr. Premier. He mentioned to me one day that he felt

that people had the right to good basic tooth care. He said: "You know,

if you don't have good teeth, how can you chew? And if you can't chew,

how can you enjoy good food? And if you don't eat good food, where is

your health?" You could almost say this is the government with teeth.

The program will cover those not now covered by private or company

dental care programs. It will give a measure of protection from the

high costs associated with basic dental care. It is a good start. We're

proud of it, and the people will appreciate it. Speaking of the

Premier, it is his priority to keep British Columbia in the forefront

of medical and preventive health care. We believe it's a major factor

in social justice for the people of British Columbia.

Speaking of social justice, a family home is a major factor in

family life. Unlike the socialists, we believe the individual develops

a great sense of independence and pride in his community if he or she

can own even a small piece of land in British Columbia. British

Columbians agree with, and will welcome, the government's commitment to

expand the home purchase assistance grants for first-time home buyers.

This aid, along with the existing programs such as shelter aid for

elderly renters, housing assistance to the handicapped, and the home

conversion program, will help make possible the opportunity for a

family to have a variety of choices for the type of home accommodation

which best suits them.

These housing programs and home encouragement are unfortunately not

enough in themselves. That's why the government has taken responsible

action on property tax increases. We must not allow people to be taxed

out of their homes. This is why the government has asked that municipal

budgets consider a modest lift this year in keeping with the gross

provincial productivity, and attempt to hold the line on mill rate

increases. In all fairness, the government of British Columbia is not

asking the municipalities to share this responsibility alone. The

Revenue Sharing Act introduced by this government really put more money

into the hands of municipalities by linking grants available to

municipalities to the provincial revenue growth in specific areas. I

believe that the budget, when it comes down, will show that in the last

fiscal year British Columbia municipalities received a greater share of

the provincial moneys than any other time in British Columbia's

history. That is to help offset local taxes and help local governments

provide the services their people need, but in keeping with what is

possible, and in order to make more possible for people. Over-taxation

by local municipalities is evil and crippling and erosive to a

citizen's rights and freedoms. In requesting municipalities to

institute control budgeting, we're merely asking that they work with

the government and follow the government in its example.

His Honour made reference to lands, specifically to the fact that

the Minister of Lands (Hon. Mr. Chabot) will be the slasher of red tape

and bureaucracy in his attempt to simplify the applications for Crown

lands. These efforts will be greeted with cries of relief from the

thousands of British Columbians who have found themselves with

legitimate land applications.

Interjection.

MRS. JORDAN: You should listen, Mr. Member. I know people in

your area who are enmeshed in this sort of bureaucracy that you left.

These people have been enmeshed in the worst and most senseless

bureaucratic socialist hangover imaginable. I'll tell you, Governor

Jerry Brown put his finger on it when he said it was a "pretzel palace

of confusion."

[ Page 17 ]

As this throne speech indicates, the minister, if he can simplify

the process of legitimate land applications, will bring relief to many

British Columbians. I think he could even be hailed as "the father of

home and hearth."

With these programs of restrained taxation...

MR. STEPHENS: Heavy provincial government taxes. Tax, tax, tax.

MRS. JORDAN: ...and individual home ownership opportunities,

this government will have been successful in our search for new ways to

make possible individual solutions for people, rather than

institutional solutions to the provision of their shelter needs. That's

important. The individual should have as much opportunity for the right

of choice as possible; he should not be dependent on state or heavy

corporate housing.

We're living in changing times, with a strong, spirited, cultural

country that is changing ideas. The very foundation of our nation is

the subject of much discussion and debate, particularly in view of

Premier Levesque's determination to remove the province of Quebec.

"Tax, tax." Mr. Member, I was in Vernon when you spoke to the

chamber of commerce, and even the membership of your own party got up

and questioned you. All that they found you had said was that you were

just rerouting the debt and placing it more heavily on the individual.

So I do not think I'd talk too much about taxation, if I were you.

Interjection.

MRS. JORDAN: A socialist in Conservative clothing?

We have to recognize the efforts of Premier Levesque, who seems

determined to remove the province of Quebec from the framework of

Confederation. Mr. Trudeau is determined to bypass the basic issues in

this country: inflation and the lagging economy and the federal

election. Nowhere do we hear him talk about the rights of the

individual, the rights of people, and social justice. He talks about

it, but he's not doing anything to put together something, such as this

government has done, which would meet the needs of people so that we

would not talk about social justice, we would have social justice. We

would have opportunities.

It's with pride in being British Columbians, then, that most of us have

watched and listened to our Premier as he presented British Columbia's position

at several First Ministers' Conferences.

I just have to repeat that the national press has recorded time

after time that British Columbia, through its First Minister, is

presenting by far the most thorough and comprehensive plan of all the

First Ministers. They're quoted as having arrived there with their

homework done, our position clearly documented and its alternatives

precisely spelled out.

Not only has British Columbia's determination to maintain a strong

national stance been evident, but in order to make a strong national

stance evident, new workable economic strategies have been proposed as

a major step in restoring both the economic prosperity and a sense of

national unity in this country. If people do not have social justice

and if people do not have money in their pockets and food on their

tables and some opportunity to have some freedoms, you cannot have

national unity. The provinces of this nation must have more voice in

the decision-making process at the centre, as witness the statements in

the Speech from the Throne. Local people know the answer to most of

their problems, and they need the freedom to act.

The need to revitalize and update our constitution is vital. The

basic principles on which division of powers is currently based must be

reassessed, in the light of the need for national strength. But at the

same time, the Canadian constitution simply must allow for the

development and direction of the different and unique geographical

areas of this province.

We, as British Columbians and as members of this Legislature, must

consider the positive aspects. We must not let those who thrive on

being negative and those who want to overrule the national right to

individual opportunity undermine our objectives or our confidence in

our position.

The same principles underlining British Columbia's national

presentations have been applied over the last three years in British

Columbia. It has brought about a turnaround of the economy in this

province. This turnaround has taken place notwithstanding the overall

Canadian and North American picture, and notwithstanding — to be

charitable — the devastating effects that the economic policies of the

socialist government of British Columbia have had on our province

during its term of office.

Respect for the value and capabilities of the private sector to use

its ingenuity and its drive to create jobs for people of all ages and

to create a strong economy is being proven correct right here in

British Columbia,

[ Page 18 ]

as His Honour stated.

The rescinding of restrictive legislation and the creation of

confidence in people, the incentive of reward for effort, has achieved

an advancement in industry and commerce over these past three years. I

would have to say, in looking at the figures, that this achievement is

highly significant: 98,000 jobs have been created for people all across

British Columbia in many areas of the economy; shipments from British

Columbian factories have dramatically increased for 1978 — up 20

percent.

Everywhere you look and everywhere you go around this province you

can feel growth, you can feel strength and you can feel excitement in

the people and in our economy, an excitement about the opportunities

for their freedom that this provides. The forest industry production is

up; the fishing industry and land values are up; labour income is up;

the Port of Vancouver exports are up; and retail sales are up.

Everywhere we look, Mr. Speaker, we see progress in our economy,

progress which has found comfort in a strengthened climate of

confidence, in a positive climate, a building climate, a people's

climate.

There were 14,000 new companies incorporated in 1978; that is 1,084

more than in 1977. Fifteen percent of the new jobs in Canada were

created right here in British Columbia, even though we have just 11

percent of the population. It wasn't created by state; it was created

by a positive attitude, a positive philosophy and people and government

working together in a free climate. All of this, Mr. Speaker, is

underlined by the confidence which small and large industries have

exhibited in our economic leadership. The forest industry has announced

major investments. Respect for the individual rights in our government

in cooperation with this private sector continues and will continue to

build an infrastructure of sound economics in this province for the

future.

There is a multimillion dollar program for building and securing our

travel industry, and it is expected to encourage a multitude of

tourist-related businesses in British Columbia. The Minister of

Economic Development (Hon. Mr. Phillips), who keeps a low profile,

provides funds for community industrial development, industrial

commissions, assistance and encouragement to small enterprise, research

and analysis, and regional development incentives. In the Interior of

this province — whether it be on the border of the Yukon, or whether it

be on the border of Alberta in our precious Kootenays, the Valley of a

Thousand Peaks, or whether it be in the Okanagan — this ministry and

this government have done a tremendous job in encouraging people and

communities to get out and do their own thing, develop their own

abilities and industries. Why, in the North Okanagan in the past year

there have been 17 new or expanded manufacturing industries through

this program. It is a commission through which this government has

given tremendous financial help and advice which will benefit the

people of the North Okanagan.

The ministry also continues to be involved in tariff regulations and

the national economic strategy. We hope — and we wish you well, Mr.

Minister — that you can get through to other governments the benefits

that there are in the approaches that have been taken in British

Columbia and benefits for people. With major initial industrial

initiatives such as Duke Point, the Burrard Dry Dock, the northeast

coal studies and many industrial parks around the province, we are, Mr.

Speaker, on the path to strong economic opportunity in our province.

There are many other references in the throne speech which clearly

demonstrate the government's determination to see that people are free

and can enjoy social justice and economic opportunity.

There is the environment, Mr. Speaker, and how we can manage very

real environmental concerns and how we must be fair to both the

environment and to people. We believe this compatibility can be

achieved.

Mr. Speaker, all aspects of the throne speech will benefit all

regions and people of British Columbia, and there will be particular

benefits and opportunity for the people of the North Okanagan. They do

have special concerns which they wish me to bring before the government

in this House, but I have chosen not to do this at this time. I will do

so at a more appropriate time during the various debates, rather than

now.

Mr. Speaker, I mentioned in the initial stages that there were two

ways in which you could address yourself to government and government's

responsibilities, that there are two philosophies, and that it is in

that area that this House divides. But when I read the Speech from the

Throne and I thought about what I said, I wondered whether in fact this

wasn't the case, because in this throne speech there is the opportunity

for all members of this House to say that they do in fact not only

believe in social justice but are prepared to support it; that they do

in fact believe in individual right and are prepared to support it;

that they do in fact believe that economic opportunity, a healthy

economic climate, should exist in order that people can

[ Page 19 ]

achieve their own priorities and select their own priorities.

This government has outlined in the Speech from the Throne the

importance that it places on the individual in our society; the

importance of achieving through legislation and philosophy the right —

and, yes, the freedom — to advance through effort; the importance of

protecting individuals of all ages from overwhelming power from any

sector of the society, and that includes big government. The throne

speech stresses that with privilege comes accountability — social,

personal and, yes, fiscal.

The former government and the members of this House on that side had

an unparalleled opportunity to demonstrate its much touted concern for

the people, with a large majority, a socially oriented leader and

enormous financial resources. Yet in the space of three years, it blew

it all — and more. It had no clearly defined goals, no strong or

compassionate leadership, no accountability and gargantuan waste.

With the help and confidence of our people this government has in

difficult times changed all that. We have clearly defined goals. We

have a strong and compassionate leader who has proved himself. And we

have been accountable to the people. Most significant — perhaps most

significant of all — the individuals of British Columbia are once again

important in shaping the course of their lives and their government.

We all will have the opportunity to support the people of this

province through this Speech from the Throne. I would be very, very

surprised if that weren't a unanimous endorsement.

MR. KERSTER: Mr. Speaker, with your permission, I would like

to take this time — just a moment or two — to introduce two very

special people seated in the gallery today: my most conscientious and

devoted constituency secretary, Mrs. Marguarite Ripley, who is

accompanied by a constituent, Mrs. Millie Roosa. I'd ask this House to

welcome them.

Mr. Speaker, the hon. member for North Okanagan (Mrs. Jordan) must be congratulated

for the manner in which she has spoken about the achievements of this government

and of the vision it holds for the future of all British Columbians. I would

also like — through you, Mr. Speaker — to take this opportunity to congratulate

those members of our government who have been given new challenges and responsibilities

by our Premier, especially those two new ministers: the hon. member for Skeena

(Hon. Mr. Shelford), who assumes Agriculture, a portfolio he is not only very

familiar with but also eminently qualified to administer; and the hon. member

for Burnaby-Willingdon (Hon. Mr. Veitch), who has taken on responsibility for

tourism and the added responsibility of small business development.

Mr. Speaker, it's a singular honour for me to second this Speech

from the Throne, the fourth and even more positive such message placed

before this assembly by our government. In it one particular theme is a

common one shared by the three preceding messages from this government,

and it is emphasized even more clearly when our government states that

the individual is the most vital and the most important element in our

society. Indeed, the individual is the very cornerstone of our society,

which was built on individual enterprise, individual ambition and

individual desire. It's the successes of those individuals — those

pioneers — which have established our way of life and those standards

that we now enjoy. Our democratic society was founded in the belief

that every person has the right to grow, the right to advance and, yes,

the right to succeed. This individual excellence which is the heritage

of generations of British Columbians is our most cherished possession.

We cannot allow those who would find it convenient to be negative to

diminish that proud history.

Unlike socialist forms of government, which seek more power through

more government, and, as a result, restrict more individual rights, our

government protects and expands those precious rights while striving

for smaller and more efficient government, and to reduce government

intrusion into our lives. It's a privilege to be a part of a government

which underlines its commitments, its philosophies and its beliefs with

positive action. To reiterate what His Honour the Lieutenant Governor

said: "My government believes that the ultimate freedom and security of

British Columbians rests on the right and the responsibility of

individuals to guide their own destiny. The right of the individual

ownership should never be surrendered to government."

Hon. members, I'm speaking about a bill of rights which is soon to

be placed before this assembly. All me mbers will be asked to put in

place this legislation, which will guarantee fundamental freedoms for

all our citizens. I think, Mr. Speaker, it would greatly benefit this

province and its people if all members would remember that where

government should be just big enough to deliver optimum services, it

should never be so big as to be able to deny them.

Over the past 31/2 years this government

[ Page 20 ]

has carefully developed the climate and the

framework in which each of us may advance and attain new goals in the

future of British Columbia for the rest of this century and beyond. Mr.

Speaker, most certainly education must be recognized as the most vital

foundation of our future.

[Mr. Speaker in the chair.]

This government has made significant advances across this entire

spectrum under the dynamic leadership of the hon. Minister of Education

(Hon. Mr. McGeer). It has expanded the opportunities for vocational,

technical and trades training. Now as never before, Mr. Speaker, more

British Columbians are able to broaden their horizons and attain higher

levels of individual success. The Open Learning Institute will afford

knowledge to our citizens, regardless of where they live in our

province. Independent schools now receive partial funding, because this

government, and this government only, had the foresight to give parents

and children their individual rights to an education of their choice,

partially paid for through their taxes.

Mr. Speaker, our government recognizes not only the need to protect

the heritage we so deeply cherish today, but the further need to

explore and expand our horizons in the future. The Science Council of

B.C. and the creation of a research secretariat are the commitments of

this government to our future. Without some understanding of what the

next century may hold, we could not even begin to lay even the most

simple foundation for our children today.

Mr. Speaker, our entire world is celebrating a great year this year,

the Year of the Child. Children are the very essence of the future of

our entire civilization. Our government has responded to that

challenge, which demands only the very best for those generations of

British Columbians who depend entirely upon us to prepare them for what

tomorrow may bring. In this regard, I applaud this government's

initiatives in developing new programs for children with learning

disabilities, at the same time recognizing, though, the needs of those

other very special children who will benefit from expanded programs for

gifted children. Those young people who choose a trade will be afforded

additional opportunities to achieve their goal through improved

job-training programs; and those who select higher educational levels,

but whose interests clearly lie in athletic endeavours, will benefit

from new bursary programs at the university level, thus being able to

continue their education at home rather than abroad.

MR. LEA: Where will they work?

MR. KERSTER: I don't know why the hon. member for Prince Rupert is interested; he's never worked in his life.

Mr. Speaker, the social responsibility which must be borne not only

by government but by all of society requires that each of us receives

on the basis of need an income which assures the necessities of life

for ourselves and our dependents.

Under the GAIN program this government lowered the eligible age

level for thousands of British Columbians. Benefits will be increased

in April to provide even more equitable distribution. GAIN legislation

recognizes the responsibility of governments to those of our citizens

who are handicapped. Individual opportunity in this area of need is

unquestionably vital to the advancement of these people. The

handicapped guild, achievement centres and homemaker services are all

assisting handicapped people to enjoy a much fuller life in this

province.

The child and the family are receiving special attention, as I said,

Mr. Speaker, from this government. I was pleased to hear from His

Honour of the intention of our government to announce new programs for

families and children. This is a continuation of the many discussions

developed through the White Paper on the family and the child.

New and expanded community resources de-emphasizing institutional care are finally available to many children in need.

Family services in the Ministry of Human Resources will be

strengthened. Day-care subsidies are in place already to assist lower

income parents by enabling them to be able to continue to work. Maximum

benefits have been increased, Mr. Speaker, by 25 percent.

The children's care hospital now under construction in Vancouver

will be the finest of its type in North America. I'm proud to be

associated with this government that places such a high priority on

children's services.

Mr. Speaker, it's not only in services to children that this

government has excelled. The universal Pharmacare plan offers British

Columbians the most comprehensive program of its kind in Canada.

Universal Pharmacare means fully paid drug coverage for the elderly,

the handicapped and the indigent, and a $100 deductible formula for all

other British Columbians. And on top of this, 280,000 elderly, 14,000

handicapped and 17,000 nursing home residents continue to receive fully

paid service, as well as some 80,000 recipients of social service.

Mr. Speaker, another fine example of the

[ Page 21 ]

people programs implemented by this government is

SAFER. The SAFER program provides direct cash assistance to those

elderly renters 65 years of age or older who pay in excess of 30

percent of their income for rent. Our seniors, along with every

eligible British Columbian, can now enjoy tangibly the fruits of their

labours by becoming shareholders in the B.C. Resources Investment

Corporation.

Our government is concerned about providing greater investment

opportunities for every individual in British Columbia. These BCRIC

shares are the first in a number of planned initiatives to provide that

tangible, individual feeling of ownership in the heritage that is

British Columbia. Two new positions have been created by this

government. They are fulfilling two election promises made. The

auditor-general, of course, has been working for some time at the

checks and balances which result in a more accountable government. And

one of the first acts of this sitting of the Legislature will be to

confirm the appointment of the ombudsman. I would congratulate the hon.

member for Delta (Mr. Davidson) and the members of that select standing

committee of this House for their excellent choice.

These are very positive steps to provide our citizens with more

access to government and to ensure their individual rights. The

quarterly reports from the Minister of Finance provide an up-to-date

account of government spending, thus giving an even further

accountability to the citizens of this province.

The Committee on Crown Corporations is the first of its kind

anywhere in the Commonwealth. Under the leadership of its new chairman,

the hon. member for Omineca (Mr. Kempf), this committee has the power

to investigate all aspects of Crown corporations, to make public the

policies formulated by those corporations and to make them more

directly accountable for the first time in the history of this province.

Our government has broken new ground in federal-provincial

relations. For once, we're getting our share. Our Premier has

established a credibility in this area which has not existed before. It

was our Premier who presented the only comprehensive and workable

document — not just some paper — dealing with this nation's economy and

the ways to improve it.

The B.C. strategy called for a reduction of federal regulatory involvement.

We're going to be taking a new initiative that this government will place

before this House, in order to redirect the responsibility for regulating the

British Columbia Telephone Co. We suggested indexing the corporate tax to inflation

and moving toward freer trade by rapid removal of Canadian and foreign tariff

barriers.

Unlike some governments in this province in the past — at least one

— this Premier didn't just talk about it, he did something about it.

The government has established a record known across this country for

the lowest spending growth of any provincial government. Mr. Speaker,

this wasn't achieved by luck of the draw or by plucking it out of the

hat. It was achieved by balancing budgets and very careful long-term

fiscal planning.

There are some in this province who run around painting nothing but

a doom and gloom picture when referring to our provincial economy. It's

much to the detriment of this province, if they only knew what they

were doing. But when all things are really considered — and by that I

mean when you compare B.C.'s position to that of our national economy

or the North American economy or even the world economy — this province

is a major bright spot.

Mr. Speaker, 104,000 jobs have been created for people entering the

labour force since 1975 — 104,000 jobs for people who otherwise may

have been unemployed. This government has reacted rapidly to the urgent

need to put our people back to work. This is an ongoing objective which

requires the type of overall strategy developed by this government to

be successful.

Our youth employment programs complement the wide range of training

program which prepare individuals to succeed in the job marketplace.

Economic development potential in our province is founded on foresight,

on opportunity and on need. As the government, our need is to continue

to provide those new directions and those initiatives which will

guarantee the framework for the economic advancement of this province.

What about foresight? Our foresight in creating the cornerstone of

prosperity must not be dulled by negative attitudes or the incorrect

assumption that we cannot establish this climate which ensures a

positive long-range, environmentally sound and progressive economy.

These are the opportunities which are before us, hon. members: to

provide jobs for our people; to ensure a competitive place in world

markets; and to guarantee future generations of British Columbians a

very strong and vibrant outlook. Our government is facing these

challenges daily. Small business now has its own one-stop ministry in

government. This achievement is the product of that vital component of

our economy which has created 67 percent of all the jobs in this

province since 1971.

Mr. Speaker, the Forests ministry has new

[ Page 22 ]

legislation in place which will ensure more

efficient management of our timber reserves and which demands more

accountability to the people by the private forest companies. Thus

government is able to maintain a control and to provide new directions

on behalf of the people. Members of this Legislature can be justifiably

proud of their attainment of this milestone in our province's greatest

industry. The forest industry has responded. That's what happens when

you do something positive. Industry responds; people respond; and the

forest industry has responded to this challenge by investing 1.2

billion new dollars, which assures B.C. of continued leadership in the

marketplace and ensures the creation of more jobs for British

Columbians.

Our dynamic Minister of Economic Development (Hon. Mr. Phillips) can

be extremely proud of the successes of his ministry. As he would say,

just let the people look around this great province and what would they

see? Well, they'd see the Duke Point development in Nanaimo, the

redevelopment project in the city core in New Westminster and the

significant new achievements in international commerce — a new position

for British Columbia throughout the world and a positive and exciting

climate for business. They are all achievements which continue to

create a strong economic outlook for the province of British Columbia.

Mr. Speaker, maybe this isn't the way to put it, but that's why,

maybe, some of the other provinces in Canada are starting to really pay

attention and take notice. Maybe they're a little nervous because

British Columbia has become, under this government, the primary

economic force in Canada.

Tourism in this province has skyrocketed. Tourists are flocking to

British Columbia in larger numbers than at any time in our history and

this industry now is responsible for the infusion of over $1.6 billion

a year into our economy. Mr. Speaker, this government hasn't stopped

here. Rather, it's developed another milestone. It has developed, with

federal cooperation, a $50 million agreement which will assist new

expansion and new development in the tourist industry and thus continue

to improve both the industry and the prospects for jobs.

The Ministry of Labour, under the direction of the hon. member for

West Vancouver–Howe Sound (Hon. Mr. Williams), has done much to

establish a more stable labour relations climate. You know, I think it

is interesting to note the number of man-days lost through disputes has

dropped dramatically from a high of 2.1 million in 1972 to just over

420,000 in 1978. An essential factor, of course, in the development of

a healthy economy is stability in labour-management relations. British

Columbia, in this area, has consistently improved its record. In 1973

man-days lost in B.C. through either strike or lockout accounted for 11

percent of all the man-days lost in Canada. In 1975 where did it go? It

went up to an embarrassing 29 percent. In 1976 it dropped to 13

percent. In 1977 it went down to 4 percent, and last year it accounted

for only 6 percent.

Mr. Speaker, the concept of collective bargaining is the very basis

of all British Columbia labour law. I think that it is only fair to say

that the misunderstanding of the purpose and the scope of the Essential

Services Disputes Act is unfortunate and, most certainly, unwarranted.

only after it is clear that parties in negotiations have been unable to

reach agreement, and then only after there is an actual work stoppage

which is liable to create an immediate danger to life, to health, to

safety, or a substantial threat to this province's economic welfare, or

a substantial disruption in the delivery of educational services, is

this government authorized to take action. Now this is the kind of

protection that every citizen has the right to expect from any

responsible government.

AN HON. MEMBER: They don't understand that across the floor.

MR. KERSTER: Well, an hon. member says that they don't

understand that across the floor. Mr. Speaker, I think some of those

members opposite would really like to be able to agree with me, but I

think we all realize the box they've gotten themselves into with big

labour. I understand that the box is not only now filled with those

members opposite but that the lid has been nailed on and that some of

those big labour leaders have designs on the leadership of the official

opposition party. I think that people really are seeing evidence of

this throughout the entire province by the fact that Jim Kinnaird is

holding his NDP leadership conventions.

Interjections.

MR. KERSTER: Mr. Speaker, I'm sorry, maybe we're not supposed to call them that.

I was extremely pleased with our government's initiative in the

throne speech that discrimination with respect to ICBC rates will be

removed. All drivers will have their individual rights protected

regardless of age, sex, marital status or location. But, Mr. Speaker,

this thrust should be taken just a bit further.

[ Page 23 ]

Adjustment of ICBC policy should be affected so as to place the onus

or the benefits of this insurance program on the individual driver, and

move it away from the automobile, where it presently rests. No matter

how good the policy, only in this manner will the individual drivers

actually receive the benefits.

Our medical programs are the envy of all North Americans. The

long-term care program is unique in Canada and provides universal

assistance in health coverage at virtually all levels outside the

general hospital. Coverage includes institutional care or the use of

homemaker services. Do you know that at the end of 1978 there were

39,880 eligible British Columbians benefiting from long-term care? This

program is aimed at three main sectors in our society: the handicapped,

elderly persons who need this type of assistance, and the mentally

disabled. It's another indicator of the priorities for people put

forward by this government.

I must extend my congratulations to the hon. Minister of Health

(Hon. Mr. McClelland) for the way he moved to restore confidence at the

Vancouver General Hospital. He acted decisively to halt the

deterioration of morale at that facility. Through the establishment of

firm guidelines, he was responsible for ensuring the continuity of

high-quality care.

Special care centres have been authorized for at-risk babies and

their mothers in four communities in the province. An even more

sophisticated service for extraordinary cases has been planned at the

new Children's Hospital in Vancouver that will provide our citizens

with the very best attention available for at-risk babies. More than 15

centres now offer special hearing and pathology services. In addition,

classroom and in-home auditory equipment is now being provided in

Prince George, Victoria and Kamloops.

The new denticare program announced in the throne speech is another

milestone in the people-oriented services to be supplied by this

government. This program should be directed so as to fill that void in

which many people don't have the benefit of existing dental plans. In

this way, they will receive some protection against the high costs of

basic dental care. Again, this is a program that has been talked about

by other administrations and talked and talked and talked about, but it

will be implemented by this government.

Health care in both the preventive and the curative sense has had

and will continue to have an extremely high profile in the minds of

every member of this government. This is true because each of us

recognizes that good health, good health education and good health care

are fundamental to the maintenance and improvement of the quality of

life for every individual in British Columbia.

In the constituencies we serve, our concerns manifest themselves in

different ways, responding most directly, of course, to the needs of

the community at a given stage of that community's development.

In the Coquitlam riding, where I've had the privilege to serve these

past three years, the Eagle Ridge Hospital project has been a top

priority in the field of health care. With its present 185-bed capacity

and a 1981 completion objective, this facility will become operative at

a time when the present population, as well as the new residents

anticipated in the impending growth of the region, will have an

increased need for the services this facility will provide.

Our painstaking and persistent efforts to assure the provision of

this and other like facilities throughout the province exemplify the

ultimate and thorough function of every member of this government in

serving our most valuable resource in this province, the individual —

elderly or young; man, woman, or child.

I can say without qualification that the struggle to implement the

Eagle Ridge Hospital and the health care centre project in Port Moody

has done more to unite the people of the Coquitlam district behind this

KA and this government and this party than any single event in the past

three years.

Planning and implementing for the future welfare of people in Port

Moody, Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam and electoral area B has a broader

significance than is commonly recognized throughout the lower mainland.

In the private sector later this year, one of the largest shopping

centres under one roof in western Canada will emerge as the new town

centre for this region. We view this development as an ambitious

example of individual enterprise in action, recognizing, as we in the

region and we in government must recognize, that the growth potential

is more evident each day on that rapidly expanding north side of the

Fraser River region.

The Coquitlam region, and those communities to the east, up to

Mission and beyond, are most obviously the future residential and light

industrial areas that represent a logical alternative to the further

strategic losses of prime agricultural acreage in the Fraser Valley.

It's been of considerable satisfaction that we have witnessed an

unfaltering program of highway improvement and bridge construction in

[ Page 24 ]

the Coquitlam riding during these past three years. The primary and

secondary arterial systems, improved and newly created by the

farsighted and growth-conscious Minister of Highways (Hon. Mr. Fraser),

will assure the commercial and industrial accesses required to create

several thousand jobs in Coquitlam, Port Moody and Port Coquitlam.

And with that commercial I should get more highways. In fact, I'm

just going to bring up one now, hon. minister. The next important link

in this transportation network will be the Maryhill bypass, a route

that will open a new era in the lives of Port Coquitlam residents and a

new era of industrial development opportunity in that area. I would

expect — and this one is for the minister — that a new link with the

North Shore bridging Indian Arm, if you can arrange that, will soon

follow. I haven't had any confirmation — or confrontation, for that

matter — Mr. Minister.

I have been impressed during these past months, Mr. Speaker, by the

depth of careful planning that characterizes the programs of all

ministries as they affect people in my constituency.

Through a sense of people-oriented concern and cooperation, the

Ministry of Human Resources has established a transition house in

Coquitlam in response to a long-standing need, has funded the Women's

Centre in Port Coquitlam and relocated and consolidated Human Resources

services to better and more conveniently serve the people of the region.

Through that same sense of people-oriented concern and cooperation,

the Ministry of Attorney-General relocated and consolidated juvenile

and adult probation services and family court counselling services to

improve public access. They planned and will soon construct a new

justice building to serve this burgeoning region. Kudos go there to the

Ministry of Attorney-General.

Through that same sense of people-oriented concern and cooperation,

the Ministry of the Provincial Secretary and lottery branch have

assisted people of all ages in the development of their sport, culture,

recreation, skill, fitness and their participation in significant

endeavours throughout this province and the world.

All other ministries of this government and, for that matter, every

member of this Legislative Assembly can take pride in the progressive

legislation and action that has so far benefited every citizen of this

province.

I take great pride in reporting to this assembly that the people of

Coquitlam have repeatedly given me a very positive response and a very

healthy appreciation for the programs of this outstanding government.

MR. LEA: No worries then.

MR. KERSTER: MR. Speaker, I just can't let that one go by. Who would worry when they're threatened by a runaway federal and a carpetbagger?

MR. COCKE: He lives right there.

MR. KERSTER: Well, he must have moved in suddenly. He lives where his parachute landed. And he will get a similar reception.

Mr. Speaker, in the session ahead, all members of this Legislature

will share the responsibility to see that new programs will be approved

to further benefit all sectors of our society. We can all take pride in

being instrumental in implementing those initiatives as outlined in the

throne speech.

They will expedite the release of Crown land for residential,

recreational, agricultural and commercial use. Those same initiatives

will expand the $1,000 home purchase assistance grants for first-time

home buyers, will continue deregulation so as to remove barriers faced

by persons dealing with government at any level, will provide

low-interest loan incentives for development projects beneficial to our

economy, initiatives which will expand programs in our food processing

industry, speed the construction of a Vancouver waterfront trade and

convention centre showcase and completely review and streamline our

more than 20-year-old Municipal Act. There is legislation which will

protect the rights of those individuals affected by expropriation.

These initiatives will continue and exemplify this province's thrust to

assure our Canadian identity will not be diminished by those who would

weaken our Confederation.

These initiatives should be a source of pride to all members of this

assembly, just as we can all be justifiably proud of those measures

already placed into law during the last three sessions, programs such

as universal Pharmacare, SAFER, GAIN, the Family Relations Act, the

Consumer Protection Act, the Independent Schools Support Act, the

Colleges and Provincial Institutes Act, the Auditor General Act, the

Committee on Crown Corporations, the Forest Act, long-term care and

home purchase assistance.

HON. MR. BENNETT: And on and on.

MR. KERSTER: That's right, and on and on and on.

Mr. Speaker, we've achieved a great deal in

[ Page 25 ]

the past three years. That's not to say that other administrations

before us have not made outstanding contributions which have laid the

foundation for the present level or standard of living we enjoy.

MR. LEA: Hear, hear!

MR. KERSTER: Well, we had a three-year problem but I don't consider that an administration.

Mr. Speaker, no administration in our history has done as much for

so many during its term in office as today's government has done in

just three short years.

This throne speech clearly spells out the positive philosophy of

this government and its pledge to vastly expand opportunities and

successfully fulfil the expectations of all British Columbians.

Mr. Barrett moved adjournment of the debate.

Motion approved.

Presenting reports.

Hon. Mr. Williams presented the annual report of the Labour

Relations Board of British Columbia, the annual report of the Ministry

of Labour and the sixty-second annual report of the Workers

Compensation Board of British Columbia.

Hon. Mr. Gardom moved adjournment of the House.

Motion approved.

The House adjourned at 11:53 a.m.

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