British Columbia Hansard — 30 October 2019, p.m., Issue 286 (41st Parliament, 4th Session)

20191030pm-Hansard-n286

British Columbia — Debates (Hansard)

Fourth Session, 41st Parliament OFFICIAL REPORT OF DEBATES (HANSARD) Wednesday, October 30, 2019 Afternoon Sitting Issue No. 286 THE HONOURABLE DARRYL PLECAS, SPEAKER ISSN 1499-2175

PROVINCE OF BRITISH COLUMBIA (Entered Confederation July 20, 1871) LIEUTENANT-GOVERNOR Her Honour the Honourable Janet Austin, OBC Fourth Session, 41st Parliament SPEAKER OF THE LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY Honourable Darryl Plecas EXECUTIVE COUNCIL Premier and President of the Executive Council ............................................................................................................... Hon. John Horgan Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance............................................................................................................................Hon.

Carole James Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Training..................................................................................................... Hon. Melanie Mark Minister of Agriculture.........................................................................................................................................................Hon. Lana Popham Attorney General.................................................................................................................................................................Hon.

David Eby, QC Minister of Children and Family Development ............................................................................................................ Hon. Katrine Conroy Minister of State for Child Care...................................................................................................................................... Hon. Katrina Chen Minister of Education ............................................................................................................................................................ Hon.

Rob Fleming Minister of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources ...............................................................................................Hon. Michelle Mungall Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy............................................................................................. Hon. George Heyman Minister of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development ..............................................Hon.

Doug Donaldson Minister of Health .....................................................................................................................................................................Hon. Adrian Dix Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation ......................................................................................................... Hon. Scott Fraser Minister of Jobs, Trade and Technology............................................................................................................................ Hon.

Bruce Ralston Minister of State for Trade...............................................................................................................................................Hon. George Chow Minister of Labour ...................................................................................................................................................................Hon. Harry Bains Minister of Mental Health and Addictions............................................................................................................................ Hon.

Judy Darcy Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing and Minister of Citizens’ Services ...................................................... Hon. Selina Robinson Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General ........................................................................................................... Hon. Mike Farnworth Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction..............................................................................................Hon.

Shane Simpson Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture.....................................................................................................................................Hon. Lisa Beare Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure................................................................................................................ Hon.

Claire Trevena LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY Leader of the Official Opposition................................................................................................................................Andrew Wilkinson, QC Leader of the Third Party ....................................................................................................................................................Dr. Andrew Weaver Deputy Speaker................................................................................................................................................................................

Raj Chouhan Assistant Deputy Speaker................................................................................................................................................................... Joan Isaacs Deputy Chair, Committee of the Whole ................................................................................................................ Spencer Chandra Herbert Acting Clerk of the Legislative Assembly...............................................................................................................................

Kate Ryan-Lloyd Clerk Assistant — Committees and Interparliamentary Relations ..........................................................................................Susan Sourial Sessional Law Clerk...............................................................................................................................................Loredana Catalli-Sonier, QC Parliamentary Counsel ...................................................................................................................................................................... S.

Suzie Seo Acting Sergeant-at-Arms..................................................................................................................................................................Greg Nelson

ALPHABETICAL LIST OF MEMBERS Ashton, Dan (BC Liberal) ........................................................................ Penticton Bains, Hon. Harry (NDP)...............................................................Surrey-Newton Barnett, Donna (BC Liberal) ................................................... Cariboo-Chilcotin Beare, Hon. Lisa (NDP).............................................Maple Ridge–Pitt Meadows Begg, Garry (NDP) ..................................................................... Surrey-Guildford Bernier, Mike (BC Liberal) .......................................................

Peace River South Bond, Shirley (BC Liberal)......................................... Prince George–Valemount Brar, Jagrup (NDP)..................................................................... Surrey-Fleetwood Cadieux, Stephanie (BC Liberal)....................................................... Surrey South Chandra Herbert, Spencer (NDP) ..................................... Vancouver–West End Chen, Hon. Katrina (NDP).....................................................Burnaby-Lougheed Chouhan, Raj (NDP) ............................................................... Burnaby-Edmonds Chow, Hon.

George (NDP)............................................... Vancouver-Fraserview Clovechok, Doug (BC Liberal) ................................ Columbia River–Revelstoke Coleman, Rich (BC Liberal) ...............................................................Langley East Conroy, Hon. Katrine (NDP)......................................................... Kootenay West Darcy, Hon.

Judy (NDP) ............................................................New Westminster Davies, Dan (BC Liberal) ..........................................................Peace River North de Jong, Michael, QC (BC Liberal) ............................................ Abbotsford West Dean, Mitzi (NDP)...............................................................Esquimalt-Metchosin D’Eith, Bob (NDP) ...............................................................Maple Ridge–Mission Dix, Hon. Adrian (NDP)......................................................Vancouver-Kingsway Donaldson, Hon.

Doug (NDP).....................................................................Stikine Eby, Hon. David, QC (NDP)............................................. Vancouver–Point Grey Elmore, Mable (NDP)....................................................... Vancouver-Kensington Farnworth, Hon. Mike (NDP) ...................................................... Port Coquitlam Fleming, Hon. Rob (NDP) .....................................................Victoria–Swan Lake Foster, Eric (BC Liberal)........................................................... Vernon-Monashee Fraser, Hon.

Scott (NDP) ................................................ Mid Island–Pacific Rim Furstenau, Sonia (BC Green Party) ........................................... Cowichan Valley Gibson, Simon (BC Liberal) ................................................. Abbotsford-Mission Glumac, Rick (NDP)........................................................Port Moody–Coquitlam Heyman, Hon. George (NDP) .............................................. Vancouver-Fairview Horgan, Hon. John (NDP) ...............................................

Langford–Juan de Fuca Hunt, Marvin (BC Liberal) .......................................................Surrey-Cloverdale Isaacs, Joan (BC Liberal) .........................................Coquitlam–Burke Mountain James, Hon. Carole (NDP)...................................................Victoria–Beacon Hill Johal, Jas (BC Liberal)...............................................

Richmond-Queensborough Kahlon, Ravi (NDP)..............................................................................Delta North Kang, Anne (NDP)..................................................................Burnaby–Deer Lake Kyllo, Greg (BC Liberal)............................................................................ Shuswap Larson, Linda (BC Liberal) .............................................Boundary-Similkameen Lee, Michael (BC Liberal) ......................................................

Vancouver-Langara Leonard, Ronna-Rae (NDP) ....................................................Courtenay-Comox Letnick, Norm (BC Liberal)............................................Kelowna–Lake Country Ma, Bowinn (NDP) ................................................... North Vancouver–Lonsdale Malcolmson, Sheila (NDP) .......................................................................Nanaimo Mark, Hon. Melanie (NDP) ..................................... Vancouver–Mount Pleasant Martin, John (BC Liberal)......................................................................

Chilliwack Milobar, Peter (BC Liberal).................................... Kamloops–North Thompson Morris, Mike (BC Liberal) ..........................................Prince George–Mackenzie Mungall, Hon. Michelle (NDP).................................................... Nelson-Creston Oakes, Coralee (BC Liberal) ...........................................................Cariboo North Olsen, Adam (BC Green Party)........................... Saanich North and the Islands Paton, Ian (BC Liberal)......................................................................... Delta South Plecas, Hon.

Darryl (Ind.) ..........................................................Abbotsford South Polak, Mary (BC Liberal) ............................................................................ Langley Popham, Hon. Lana (NDP)..............................................................Saanich South Ralston, Hon. Bruce (NDP) .......................................................... Surrey-Whalley Redies, Tracy (BC Liberal) ..................................................... Surrey–White Rock Reid, Linda (BC Liberal) ................................................

Richmond South Centre Rice, Jennifer (NDP) ............................................................................ North Coast Robinson, Hon. Selina (NDP) ....................................... Coquitlam-Maillardville Ross, Ellis (BC Liberal)..................................................................................Skeena Routledge, Janet (NDP) .................................................................. Burnaby North Routley, Doug (NDP) ................................................Nanaimo–North Cowichan Rustad, John (BC Liberal) ..............................................................

Nechako Lakes Shypitka, Tom (BC Liberal) .............................................................Kootenay East Simons, Nicholas (NDP) ........................................Powell River–Sunshine Coast Simpson, Hon. Shane (NDP)................................................

Vancouver-Hastings Sims, Jinny (NDP) .......................................................................Surrey-Panorama Singh, Rachna (NDP) ........................................................Surrey–Green Timbers Stewart, Ben (BC Liberal) ................................................................Kelowna West Stilwell, Michelle (BC Liberal)..............................................Parksville-Qualicum Stone, Todd (BC Liberal)........................................

Kamloops–South Thompson Sturdy, Jordan (BC Liberal).......................................West Vancouver–Sea to Sky Sullivan, Sam (BC Liberal)...............................................Vancouver–False Creek Sultan, Ralph (BC Liberal) ......................................... West Vancouver–Capilano Tegart, Jackie (BC Liberal) ................................................................ Fraser-Nicola Thomson, Steve (BC Liberal)..................................................... Kelowna-Mission Thornthwaite, Jane (BC Liberal) .............................

North Vancouver–Seymour Throness, Laurie (BC Liberal) ..................................................... Chilliwack-Kent Trevena, Hon. Claire (NDP) .............................................................. North Island Wat, Teresa (BC Liberal) ................................................Richmond North Centre Weaver, Dr. Andrew (BC Green Party) ......................... Oak Bay–Gordon Head Wilkinson, Andrew, QC (BC Liberal) .............................. Vancouver-Quilchena Y ap, John (BC Liberal)..........................................................

Richmond-Steveston LIST OF MEMBERS BY RIDING Abbotsford-Mission ..........................................................................Simon Gibson Abbotsford South ..................................................................... Hon. Darryl Plecas Abbotsford West .................................................................... Michael de Jong, QC Boundary-Similkameen.....................................................................

Linda Larson Burnaby–Deer Lake ...............................................................................Anne Kang Burnaby-Edmonds ..............................................................................Raj Chouhan Burnaby-Lougheed................................................................... Hon. Katrina Chen Burnaby North................................................................................

Janet Routledge Cariboo-Chilcotin ............................................................................Donna Barnett Cariboo North .................................................................................. Coralee Oakes Chilliwack.............................................................................................. John Martin Chilliwack-Kent..............................................................................Laurie Throness Columbia River–Revelstoke........................................................

Doug Clovechok Coquitlam–Burke Mountain................................................................. Joan Isaacs Coquitlam-Maillardville..................................................... Hon. Selina Robinson Courtenay-Comox ................................................................. Ronna-Rae Leonard Cowichan Valley ............................................................................

Sonia Furstenau Delta North ...........................................................................................Ravi Kahlon Delta South.................................................................................................Ian Paton Esquimalt-Metchosin.............................................................................Mitzi Dean Fraser-Nicola........................................................................................

Jackie Tegart Kamloops–North Thompson............................................................Peter Milobar Kamloops–South Thompson ................................................................Todd Stone Kelowna–Lake Country....................................................................Norm Letnick Kelowna-Mission.............................................................................

Steve Thomson Kelowna West.........................................................................................Ben Stewart Kootenay East .....................................................................................Tom Shypitka Kootenay West ...................................................................... Hon. Katrine Conroy Langford–Juan de Fuca............................................................. Hon. John Horgan Langley....................................................................................................

Mary Polak Langley East .......................................................................................Rich Coleman Maple Ridge–Mission ............................................................................ Bob D’Eith Maple Ridge–Pitt Meadows ..........................................................Hon. Lisa Beare Mid Island–Pacific Rim .............................................................. Hon. Scott Fraser Nanaimo ....................................................................................

Sheila Malcolmson Nanaimo–North Cowichan.............................................................. Doug Routley Nechako Lakes ...................................................................................... John Rustad Nelson-Creston.................................................................. Hon. Michelle Mungall New Westminster ......................................................................... Hon. Judy Darcy North Coast..........................................................................................

Jennifer Rice North Island ............................................................................ Hon. Claire Trevena North Vancouver–Lonsdale ................................................................. Bowinn Ma North Vancouver–Seymour ......................................................Jane Thornthwaite Oak Bay–Gordon Head ..........................................................Dr.

Andrew Weaver Parksville-Qualicum .....................................................................Michelle Stilwell Peace River North.................................................................................. Dan Davies Peace River South ............................................................................... Mike Bernier Penticton................................................................................................ Dan Ashton Port Coquitlam .................................................................... Hon.

Mike Farnworth Port Moody–Coquitlam .....................................................................Rick Glumac Powell River–Sunshine Coast ..................................................... Nicholas Simons Prince George–Mackenzie ..................................................................Mike Morris Prince George–Valemount.................................................................

Shirley Bond Richmond North Centre ........................................................................Teresa Wat Richmond-Queensborough .......................................................................Jas Johal Richmond South Centre........................................................................ Linda Reid Richmond-Steveston..................................................................................

John Y ap Saanich North and the Islands............................................................Adam Olsen Saanich South............................................................................Hon. Lana Popham Shuswap .................................................................................................... Greg Kyllo Skeena ......................................................................................................... Ellis Ross Stikine ..................................................................................Hon.

Doug Donaldson Surrey-Cloverdale............................................................................... Marvin Hunt Surrey-Fleetwood ...................................................................................Jagrup Brar Surrey–Green Timbers ......................................................................Rachna Singh Surrey-Guildford ....................................................................................Garry Begg Surrey-Newton.............................................................................Hon.

Harry Bains Surrey-Panorama..................................................................................... Jinny Sims Surrey South............................................................................... Stephanie Cadieux Surrey-Whalley........................................................................ Hon. Bruce Ralston Surrey–White Rock ............................................................................. Tracy Redies Vancouver-Fairview ............................................................ Hon.

George Heyman Vancouver–False Creek....................................................................... Sam Sullivan Vancouver-Fraserview .............................................................Hon. George Chow Vancouver-Hastings .............................................................. Hon. Shane Simpson Vancouver-Kensington ..................................................................... Mable Elmore Vancouver-Kingsway ................................................................... Hon.

Adrian Dix Vancouver-Langara .............................................................................. Michael Lee Vancouver–Mount Pleasant ................................................... Hon. Melanie Mark Vancouver–Point Grey...........................................................Hon.

David Eby, QC Vancouver-Quilchena ......................................................Andrew Wilkinson, QC Vancouver–West End....................................................Spencer Chandra Herbert Vernon-Monashee...................................................................................Eric Foster Victoria–Beacon Hill ................................................................ Hon. Carole James Victoria–Swan Lake .................................................................. Hon. Rob Fleming West Vancouver–Capilano .................................................................

Ralph Sultan West Vancouver–Sea to Sky ..............................................................Jordan Sturdy Party Standings: BC Liberal 42; NDP 41; BC Green Party 3; Independent 1

CONTENTS Wednesday, October 30, 2019 Afternoon Sitting Page Routine Business Introductions by Members................................................................................................................................................... 10361 Tributes ................................................................................................................................................................................... 10361 Robert Goltz L.

Larson Introductions by Members................................................................................................................................................... 10361 Statements .............................................................................................................................................................................. 10362 Message of support for Martin Cruz S.

Chandra Herbert Introductions by Members................................................................................................................................................... 10362 Introduction and First Reading of Bills.............................................................................................................................. 10362 Bill 38 — Climate Change Accountability Amendment Act, 2019 Hon. G.

Heyman Statements (Standing Order 25B) ....................................................................................................................................... 10363 Adoption awareness R. Leonard Citizen of the Y ear Award recipients in Prince George S. Bond Islamic heritage month and cultural diversity A. Kang Feast Asian dining festival T. Wat Norland Place supportive housing facility J. Routledge Joan LeMoine M.

Stilwell Oral Questions....................................................................................................................................................................... 10365 Agricultural land reserve changes and impacts M. de Jong Hon. L. Popham M. Polak Drinking water protection in Shawnigan Lake watershed S. Furstenau Hon. A. Dix Property taxes for small businesses and split assessment proposal T. Stone Hon. S. Robinson C.

Oakes Reports from Committees.................................................................................................................................................... 10370 Children and Y outh Committee,Children and Youth with Neuro-diverse Special Needs, October 2019 N. Simons M. Stilwell Tabling Documents............................................................................................................................................................... 10371 Environmental emergency program 2017-19 report to Legislature

Orders of the Day Second Reading of Bills ........................................................................................................................................................ 10371 Bill 41 — Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act Hon. S. Fraser J. Rustad A. Olsen Hon. K. Conroy E. Ross S. Malcolmson D. Ashton Hon. D. Donaldson R. Sultan D. Routley P . Milobar R. Singh T. Stone

WEDNESDAY , OCTOBER 30, 2019 The House met at 1:36 p.m. [Mr. Speaker in the chair.] Routine Business Prayers. Introductions by Members J. Y ap:On behalf of my Richmond colleagues, I would like to introduce a constituent of mine. In the gallery today, to observe proceedings, is Kyle Shury. Members may know of Kyle as the immediate past chair of the Richmond Hospital Foundation, a great contributor to our community and com- munity leader. Would the House please join me in welcom- ing Kyle Shury to the House. Hon. G. Heyman: I’ d like to welcome two important groups to the Legislature today.

In the gallery, we have mem- bers of the Canadian Freshwater Alliance; Rosie Simms, with the Polis water sustainability project at the University of Vic- toria; Danielle Paydli, Canadian Freshwater Alliance; and Claudia Ferris from the B.C. Wildlife Federation. I also understand that the Canadian Freshwater Alliance will be joined by their colleague Chief William Seymour of the Cowichan Tribes later this afternoon for meetings here at the Legislature. The Freshwater Alliance is based in Lady- smith, and they are working with a broad coalition of groups on B.C. ’s water sustainability.

We’re also joined in the gallery today by a team of incred- ible young climate activists. These students have prioritized climate in their young lives, and they’ve been at the forefront of climate strikes happening here in Victoria over the last few months. It was my pleasure to meet with them, along with the Premier. We were extremely impressed with their ded- ication, their passion and their articulate advocacy for their future and our planet’s future. Please welcome Emma-Jane Burian, age 17; Grace Sinats, age 14; Elliott Anderson, age 12; Rebecca Wolf Gage, age 13; and Bethany Munkacsi, age 13. Welcome.

Finally, also joining us today are Merran Smith and Dan Woynillowicz from Clean Energy Canada. Merran has been the co-chair of the Climate Solutions and Clean Growth Advisory Council for the past two years, and her work, along with her colleague Dan, has helped advise government on our next steps in climate action. We’re also joined by Ian Bruce, the director of science and policy at the David Suzuki Foundation, a leading voice for environmental advocacy for almost 30 years. I’m pleased to have everybody here today. E.

Ross:I don’t know how many people have the problem I have in terms of getting our spouses to visit here in Victor- ia. I see hands going up. Nobody wants to come visit us here in Victoria, especially our spouses. [1:40 p.m.] My wife is here today, my wife of over 35 years now. She’s here overnight only, and it took a lot of convincing to get her down here. Will the House please welcome my wife, Tracey Ross. Hon. J. Horgan:Well, multiple opportunities here. The member for Skeena has opened up a floodgate. My spouse lives here. I can’t get away. I stay here all the time.

I’m delighted — 35 years that we’ve been together. There are also two milestones. The member for Saanich South, the Minister of Agriculture, is celebrating a birthday today. I would like all members to wish her a happy birthday. Looking into the gallery and seeing Merran Smith reminds me of the last time I climbed a mountain. It was with her, it was about 30 years ago, and it wasn’t even a really big mountain. It was Mount Finlayson in Goldstream Park. It’s great to see Merran. It’s great to say happy birthday. To the member for Skeena, perhaps we can double-date tonight. Would the House please…. J.

Tegart:I’m very pleased to have some guests in the House today. Piper Humber interviewed me on the impact of gendered political leadership and how it shapes public policy. She’s joined by her mom, Dr. Nancy Humber, and her grandma, Gerry Humber. I’ d like the House to welcome them today. R. Chouhan:It gives me pleasure to introduce two of my best friends. Bruce Ferguson and Merrick Walsh from Labourers International Union of North America, Local 1611, are here. Could you please join me to welcome them. Tributes ROBERT GOLTZ L.

Larson:On a sad note, on October 25, Robert Goltz of Oliver passed away suddenly at the age of 62. He was a longtime member of the Grape Growers Association, a volunteer with the B.C. Wildlife Federation as well as the Sportsmen’s Association. He was awarded the Farmer of the Y ear and received an Award of Distinction from the B.C. Wine Institute. He is survived by his wife, Caroline; son, Nathan; daugh- ters Sarah and Sabrina; several grandchildren; and a large and loving family. I ask the Speaker to extend condolences on behalf of the Legislature to his family. Introductions by Members Mr.

Speaker:The Leader for the official opposition…. The House Leader. 10361

M. Polak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Y es, we’ d better be really careful about that. That’s a job I don’t want, thank you very much. Mr. Speaker:I just got you in trouble. M. Polak:No, no. On introductions, though, for those of us who are here at this Legislature, regardless of which party, we have people who work in our political parties and make it possible for us to achieve the success that we do in elections and then to be able to go on and serve the people in our rid- ing, the people of British Columbia. Today in the gallery, we’re joined by a wonderful young lady, Rachael Segal.

She is a senior director with the B.C. Lib- eral Party. Would the House please make her very welcome. Hon. A. Dix:We’re really honoured to have, in the House today, representatives of the Health Sciences Association, whose members do such extraordinary work in health care every day. I’m honoured to introduce the president of the HSA, Val Avery; and Jaime Matten, who’s well known to people on this side of the House as well — an extraordinary leader at the HSA. We’re honoured to welcome them, and I wish everyone to bid them welcome. Statements MESSAGE OF SUPPORT FOR MARTIN CRUZ S.

Chandra Herbert:Well, we all have those folks who go above and beyond and volunteer to support the work we do in our communities. There’s one fellow in my community, Martin Cruz, who would always be there, whether it was rain, shine, wind…. We get a bit of snow in the West End, but not much. But he would come out anyway — which, for a West Ender, is a big deal. Martin’s not doing well. He’s in hospital right now. He’s been sick for some time.

I’m not sure if he’s watching at the moment, but I just wanted to say thank you to Martin and thank you to everybody that allows us to do the work we do here on behalf of our constituents. It’s not always easy. Thank you, Martin. Y ou’re a hero for many. Introductions by Members N. Simons: I’ d like the House to join me in welcoming four local government elected officials from the beautiful Sunshine Coast. Annemarie De Andrade is here from Gib- sons; Mayor Darnelda Siegers is here from Sechelt, Matt McLean from Sechelt and Brenda Rowe from Sechelt. Would the House please join me in welcoming them. [1:45 p.m.] A.

Olsen:Today I’m honoured to welcome my son, Silas Olsen, into the House with us. He’s out of school due to a little strike issue in school district 63, so I decided to bring him to work. This morning started very early for Silas, and it’s going to go very long for Silas. He sat through caucus meeting, so anybody, if they’re interested in finding out what goes on, might want to have a conversation with Silas. He’s learning about governance. He’s learning about politics, for sure. Could everyone here please make him feel very welcome. S.

Furstenau:Joining the water champions Rosie, Dani- elle and Claudia up in the gallery is my dear friend Jill Thompson. I’m so delighted to see her, and I’m so delighted that she’s a constituent. She is a real model for what we need to see in terms of community building as a way to protect our water. I look forward to meeting with all of you after the question period. A. Weaver:I would like to join my colleague from Saanich North and the Islands and welcome a remarkable young man in Silas, who I’ve known since he was five years old. He used to come to the Legislature when we were down in our little office there.

To see him grow into such a wonderful young man has just been a real privilege. On top of that, if you’re asking him about our caucus meeting, you should know that as part of bringing him to work today, we felt he should be occupied. I now have learned something from Silas. I looked at my iPad that he was using while we were in caucus, and I now see that I can play Star Wars Angry Birds, so I’m really excited for him to teach me about that later this afternoon. Could everyone please welcome Silas. N. Simons: I noticed a friend and former or sometimes resident of the Sunshine Coast in the gallery.

Film-maker and public relations expert Claudia Ferris is in the House. Please join me in welcoming her. Introduction and First Reading of Bills BILL 38 — CLIMATE CHANGE ACCOUNTABILITY AMENDMENT ACT, 2019 Hon. G. Heyman presented a message from Her Honour the Lieutenant-Governor: a bill intituled Climate Change Accountability Amendment Act, 2019. Hon. G. Heyman:I move that Bill 38 be introduced and read a first time now.

Over the past several months, we have witnessed growing and articulate calls from young people like those joining us in the House today to safeguard their future, to respond meaningfully to the climate crisis and to be accountable for our promises and actions. This bill includes important amendments to the Climate Change Accountability Act that will strengthen B.C. ’s ability to respond to the challenges of 10362 British Columbia Debates Wednesday, October 30, 2019

climate change and implement our CleanBC commitments to strengthen government accountability for taking action. It’s the product of our collaborative work with the Third Party through our confidence and supply agreement. The amendments mandate an interim greenhouse gas emission reduction target and sector-specific reduction tar- gets to help keep B.C. on track to our 2030 legislated GHG reduction target. The amendments increase accountability by requiring an annual report on progress to targets, plans to manage climate change risks and expenditures to support both.

The report will be tabled in the Legislative Assembly by the Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy. The amendments will legislate the establishment of an independent advisory committee to provide public advice to government on climate action and building a strong low- carbon economy. New regulatory powers will enable new requirements and targets to be set for the public sector to meet climate action commitments. Y oung people throughout B.C. and around the world are demanding action and accountability, and that’s what this bill delivers. [1:50 p.m.] Mr.

Speaker:The question is first reading of the bill. Motion approved. Hon. G. Heyman: I move that the bill be placed on the orders of the day for second reading at the next sitting of the House after today. Bill 38, Climate Change Accountability Amendment Act, 2019, introduced, read a first time and ordered to be placed on orders of the day for second reading at the next sitting of the House after today. Statements (Standing Order 25B) ADOPTION AW ARENESS R.

Leonard:November is Adoption Awareness month, a time to honour adoptive families and all those other families in B.C. who have provided permanent and loving homes for children and youth in care. Welcoming a child or youth into your home is such a gen- erous act of compassion. I know that everyone in the House today appreciates the work done by adoptive families. Those loving, supportive, lasting relationships help dreams come true for children and youth who really need someone to love them and for those who’ve dreamed of starting or expanding a family.

Reconciliation has unveiled the value of other ways, along with adoption, to provide culturally relevant long-term rela- tionships for children and teens who can’t safely live with their families. Currently there are 751 children in B.C., including babies, children and teenagers, some with special needs, sibling groups — all waiting for the stability and care of a permanent family. Over the last year, 221 children and youth in care were placed for adoption.

About 40 percent of B.C. ’s foster children were adopted by their foster families, and 644 children and youth in care found permanency with committed relatives through the extended family program. Thank you to all the devoted social workers who find loving and culturally appropriate homes for children. Y our work changes lives. And a big thank-you to the Adoptive Families Association of B.C. for your pre- and post-adoption support services, education and training for people inter- ested in adopting.

If you are over the age of 19, you can apply to adopt, regardless of your marital status, employment, sexual orient- ation, disability or home ownership. Individuals, couples or two adults together may apply to adopt children. Want to know more about adoption in B.C.? Just google “adopt B.C. kids” or go to adoptnow.ca. CITIZEN OF THE YEAR AW ARD RECIPIENTS IN PRINCE GEORGE S. Bond: The Prince George Community Foundation recently hosted the 22nd annual Citizens of the Y ear gala. Once again this year they honoured three very deserving individuals: Albert Koehler, Chuck Chin and Noreen Rustad.

Between the three recipients, they have contrib- uted thousands of hours as volunteers in our community and beyond. Albert Koehler is a former city councillor and a longtime Rotarian, serving as the president of the Y ellowhead Rotary Club. He has served on numerous boards, including the Prince George Chamber of Commerce, serving as the pres- ident in 2008 through 2009. Albert was relentless in his pur- suit of a civil engineering program at UNBC and also served as the honorary consul for the Federal Republic of Germany. Noreen Rustad has an incredible record of service that spans more than 50 years.

Noreen has worked with Brownies and Guides, children’s drama groups and the Prince George spinners and weavers guild. She is a founding member of the Prince George Community Foundation and served as its president for three years. Noreen sat on the board of gov- ernors at UNBC and has been the recipient of many awards for her dedication and her commitment. Chuck Chin is a proud promoter of our community and the amazing organizations and people who choose to call Prince George home. Chuck uses his camera to capture images and tell stories.

If there is an event in Prince George, you will likely find Chuck and his wife there. His photos have been featured on Global television, and many are proudly displayed throughout the community. Chuck never charges a fee, believing that this is his way to give back and support the community he loves. Congratulations, Albert, Noreen and Chuck. Y our efforts have helped to make Prince George a better place. Y ou are Wednesday, October 30, 2019 British Columbia Debates 10363

most deserving of the very special recognition as Citizens of the Y ear. ISLAMIC HERITAGE MONTH AND CULTURAL DIVERSITY A. Kang:I’m pleased to rise in the House to honour Islam- ic heritage month in B.C. Today was the first time that it was celebrated in the Hall of Honour at the Legislature. [1:55 p.m.] This month we recognize the significant contributions of the Muslim community in our province and throughout our nation.

At a time when there are increasing levels of Islamo- phobia in Canada and around the world, our government recognizes that joining together to celebrate Islamic heritage is more important than ever. We must recognize that we have the power to create a more inclusive society for everyone. Everyone deserves to live free from fear, free from oppression, free to be able to fully express their identity. Let us celebrate our freedom of conscience and religion, freedom of thought and belief, free- dom of association, freedom of peaceful assembly. As Nelson Mandela affirmed: “Let freedom reign.

The sun never set on so glorious a human achievement” and “To deny people their human rights is to challenge their very humanity. ” In British Columbia, we are privileged to live in a mul- ticultural society. Our cultural diversity is central to B.C. ’s identity and one of the province’s greatest strengths. This month is an excellent opportunity to come together to learn more about this history and the diversity of B.C. ’s large Muslim community. I’m proud to be part of the government that places great value on diversity.

We’re committed to enhancing intercul- tural understanding to strengthen ties among our diverse community to foster a greater respect and appreciation for all cultures and faiths. So join me in celebrating Islamic heritage month, and take this time to reflect on the many amazing aspects of this com- munity that contributes in so many ways to the prosperity and success of this province. FEAST ASIAN DINING FESTIV AL T. Wat:I rise today to talk about a very special event in my riding. Feast, the Asian dining festival, returns to Rich- mond for the second year in a row.

Over the two weeks that this event took place last year, it was so popular that Feast has now returned for an amazing 32 days between October 18 and November 18. The Feast festival gives groups of friends and family the chance to try unique and easy-to-order menus at accessible prices. Restaurants spanning all forms of Asian cuisine will be participating, including Cantonese, Filipino, Indian, Japanese, Korean, Persian, Shanghainese, Taiwanese and Vietnamese cuisines.

Thanks to the strong support of Tourism Richmond and theRichmond News, the festival showcases the vibrant and world-renowned culinary talent that Richmond has to offer. Ninety percent of the restaurants participating are from my own riding of Richmond North Centre. I had the pleas- ure of visiting several of them during Small Business Week, including Hotpot Palace and JiangHu Taiwanese cuisines, and I’m very much looking forward to visiting more over the next few weeks, especially during the next two weeks when I’m back in my riding.

In fact, next week I will join all my colleagues in the city of Richmond and the members for Richmond South Centre, Richmond-Steveston and Rich- mond-Queensborough to dine in one of the participating restaurants to show our support and appreciation. If you find yourself in Richmond, seek out some of these fantastic local restaurants, and I can guarantee that you will enjoy great food, even great company, and find a new favour- ite place in Richmond. NORLAND PLACE SUPPORTIVE HOUSING FACILITY J. Routledge:Last week it was my pleasure to help cel- ebrate the opening of Norland Place. It’s a first for Burnaby.

Fifty-two of our homeless, or who are at risk of becoming homeless, neighbours will have a roof over their heads, a door they can lock, their own bathroom, their own kitchen. Some of them need help to stabilize their lives, so Norland Place will be staffed 24-7, offering access to health and well- ness services, life skills and employment and education opportunities. These are the building blocks that help people make a new start — people like Sunjai, who has been home- less for years and who is grateful to finally have a permanent home where he feels accepted, clean and well nourished.

Another man told me that he used to be the vice-president of a marketing firm. He became ill. He lost his job and ended up on the streets. He’s thrilled with his new home. He now has hope.

He feels confident about his future. [2:00 p.m.] This would not have been possible without partners like Progressive Housing Society, which will be providing round- the-clock support; or partners like Mayor Mike Hurley and the city of Burnaby, without whose support this project would never have gotten off the ground; or like Horizon North, which builds modular homes and, in so doing, is part of an industry that creates more than 2,000 jobs and sustains local businesses. I’ d also like to thank the neighbours who went out of their way to welcome newcomers to their community.

Eighty-one of them came to an open house and only had good things to say about Norland Place. The church across the street invited residents to their regular table tennis drop-in, and the neighbours did have one big question. They wanted to know: “What can we do to help?” 10364 British Columbia Debates Wednesday, October 30, 2019

JOAN LeMOINE M. Stilwell:My constituency of Parksville-Qualicum is blessed to have many dedicated volunteers who generously contribute to their communities. Today it is my pleasure to recognize the good work of one of those deserving volun- teers, Joan LeMoine. Joan is an extraordinary person who gives back to our community in many ways. This year, at 89 years young, she shaved her head in support of the Cops for Cancer Tour de Rock, an annual fundraiser for pediatric cancer research and programs for children with a history of cancer. She raised more than $9,000. It was the eighth time she’s participated.

Our local newspaper, thePQB News, says she’s raised close to $50,000 for the organization in her lifetime and has helped send 26 children to Camp Good Times. Joan was among the volunteers who formed the Parksville Beach Festival Society in 1999 and reshaped our annual beach festival and international sand-sculpting competition. The society gives back a portion of the money that is raised each year to community projects and non-profit groups and has distributed over $700,000 in the last 20 years. In 2014, Joan stepped down as the longest-serving director and was named the society’s first honorary director.

She’s also given her time to other organizations, including 20 years with the Society of Organized Services. She’s been recognized with the Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012 and the community ambassador award for the city of Parksville in 2013, and she was one of the first recipi- ents of B.C. ’s Medal of Good Citizenship in 2016. This warm, caring woman, is the mother of six and a grandmother and great-grandmother many times over. She is well known and well loved in our community and remains a shining example of how one person can make a difference.

Please join me in giving Joan a big thank you for the work that she’s done. Oral Questions AGRICULTURAL LAND RESERVE CHANGES AND IMPACTS M. de Jong: For a couple of days now, the Agriculture Minister has been trying to avoid responsibility for the impact her amendments are having on people who live and work on ALR lands. Confronted by the fact that her amend- ments have led to the eviction of the nine women from the Abbotsford Women’s Centre, she provided answers that were just fundamentally false and incorrect. She said: “There are other places for women fleeing violence.

The Minister of Housing will help. ” Well, these women, happily, are not fleeing violence. They’re receiving addiction support. They don’t need or want the help of the Minister of Housing. They’re doing just fine where they are. The Ag Minister said the program has outgrown its site. Well, that was never an issue for the ALC. And how is that relevant? Is that now the test: if a program is doing well, shut it down? [2:05 p.m.] The minister says she supports the work that the Abbots- ford Women’s Centre is doing. The question people are ask- ing is: how does evicting nine women from their home rep- resent support?

Hon. L. Popham:Thanks for the question. I understand that the member values this service in his community very much. I understand that the Agricultural Land Commission makes decisions independently, and I hope that he also understands that. It’s my understanding that the rehabilitation centre applied to increase capacity at their facility because it had reached capacity, and the Agricultural Land Commission made a decision that was not in favour of that request. But they did allow a grace period of two years for the shelter to find a new place.

Now, I just want to be clear, though, that I’m very happy to meet with the facility, but something else needs to be made clear. The member implies that something that we’ve done, a change we’ve made, has affected this decision, but that’s absolutely not true. The decision that was made was based on the rules made by the opposition. Mr. Speaker:The member for Abbotsford West on a sup- plemental. M. de Jong: Look, the minister changed the mandate. When she introduced Bill 15, she was very proud of that fact. I recall the debate.

She was very proud of the fact that she changed the mandate and the rules that the ALC applies to these matters. Now following that change, applying that new mandate, the Abbotsford Women’s Centre is being evicted from the site that they’ve called home for many, many years. They lived there for many, many years. What’s going to change? Well, here’s what’s not going to change after they’re evicted. After they’re evicted, that house that has been there for decades will continue to be there. The driveway that drives up past the trees and the rocks on this one-hectare site will still be there.

The detached garage they use as a craft centre for the women will still be there. The little shed they use as a gym, a makeshift gym, will still be there. Y ou know what won’t be there? The nine women getting the support they need for addictions. They won’t be there. The minister and her government, through the amend- ments they introduced and passed, have created this prob- lem. Will the minister fix it? Hon. L. Popham:I think I have made it very clear that the mandate that the Agricultural Land Commission made their decision on was based on rules made by the opposition.

Wednesday, October 30, 2019 British Columbia Debates 10365

There has been nothing that we would have changed that they would have based their decision on. Interjections. Mr. Speaker:Members. Members. Hon. L. Popham: Let’s be clear. The Agricultural Land Commission is an independent tribunal, and on this side of the House, we respect the independence of that tribunal. Perhaps the opposition didn’t respect that when they were government. We’ve heard loud and clear with our consultation process, which is continuing till November 15, that people are look- ing for more flexibility with the agricultural land reserve. They’re looking for opportunities for value-added.

What we’re doing is we’re speaking to British Columbians. In fact, the consultation committee is in Cranbrook today speaking with the city of Cranbrook. We’re actively consulting with farmers, ranchers and consumers and the public of British Columbia to see if any changes should be made. Mr. Speaker:The member for Abbotsford West on a second supplemental. M. de Jong:Y ou know, a couple of days ago, the minister was purporting to explain the decision, as she again does today. She was wrong then, and she’s wrong again today. She introduced these amendments. The order was…. I have the order.

If members have read the order, that’s fine. I don’t think they have. The order was made on the basis of the changed mandate that this government and this minister have imposed. Here’s what the spokesperson for the Abbotsford Women’s Centre says. They are not complainers. They don’t, quite frankly, want any attention.

Here’s what they said. “We real- ize they have a mandate, ” speaking about the ALC, “but we’re hoping they would see beyond the mandate to maybe being able to give back a little piece of land for the purpose of reclaiming people’s lives. ” [2:10 p.m.] Now, the minister made some changes to accommodate dumping gravel on ALR lands. I guess they’re asking for a similar realization that there have been impacts to the changes they made. The mandate that this woman Angie is referring to is the mandate the minister gave to the ALC in Bill 15. The women’s centre wants to save lives.

The Gleaners want to feed the world’s hungry. When will the minister acknowledge that it is the changes she and her government have imposed upon those who are trying to do good work that is preventing them from doing that good work, and will she please stand up in this House, acknowledge that and pledge to take the steps necessary to allow those people to save lives and save women? Hon. L. Popham: I’ll state it again. The rules that the decision was made under were not in place by this govern- ment but put in place by the former government. Let me just say something about the Gleaners and the work they do.

They do an incredible thing. Interjections. Mr. Speaker:Members. Hon. L. Popham:They collect food that would otherwise be put into the landfill. They chop it up. They dehydrate it. They make it into soup packages, and they send it out to people who will need that. I’m really…. Interjections. Mr. Speaker:Members. Members, the interruptions are really getting out of hand here. Unless your interruption has a level of humour that is commonly displayed by the mem- ber for Abbotsford West or the member from Chilliwack, then we don’t want to hear it. Hon. L.

Popham:The work that the Gleaners do is very interesting, and it’s very important. We have a very strong mandate within my ministry to encourage food processing, and we’re creating a network of processing across British Columbia. I would be very interested in sitting down with the Gleaners to see how we could work together. M. Polak:Walter and Sheila Chapman had a pretty excit- ing retirement plan that they have built over many years. In 1997, together with their daughter and daughter’s husband, they bought a farm property on 248th in Langley.

The son and daughter built themselves a home on the back of the property and rented out a much, much older building on the front to a caretaker and security person. The goal of this was to allow Walter and Sheila, when the time came for their retirement, to sell their home in South Surrey and move onto the property with their daughter and son-in-law. Sounds eminently reasonable. Probably the kind of retirement a lot of us would really dearly love to have, and so would they. They were confronted by a similar problem to those we’ve heard described in this House for this past week.

They were told, after they’ d already demolished the existing home on the property in order to rebuild their retirement home, they would have to apply to the ALC. They were also told that it would take 30 to 60 days to get a response. Well, here they are, more than five months later. They’re still waiting, and they don’t have an answer. What will this minister do to ensure that the Chapman’s retirement dream is not ruined? Hon. L. Popham:When we were changing the legislation 10366 British Columbia Debates Wednesday, October 30, 2019

and putting a limit on houses and addressing houses on the Agricultural Land Reserve…. Interjections. Mr. Speaker:Members. Hon. L. Popham:When we were addressing changes with residences on the agricultural land reserve, we really took into account the needs of farmers and farming families. We made sure that we created a path forward for those families, whether they needed an additional residence to support oth- er family members or to create a home that would house a multigenerational farming family.

We saw that the needs of farmers were quite different from northern B.C. right into southern B.C. and on Vancouver Island. [2:15 p.m.] The issue that the member brings up specifically — I’m not familiar with the file. I’ d be happy to sit with the member to talk about those details. Mr. Speaker:The House Leader for the official opposition on a supplemental. M. Polak:Here’s what Sheila says in an email to me. “My husband has now suffered from a heart attack, which I am certain is related to the stress of this ordeal. Our situation is dire and can’t seem to get any answers from the ALC.

Ima- gine not being able to rebuild a home that was already there on your own land. ” Now they are waiting. They’ve been wait- ing more than five months. Here’s what it means to them. They actually had to move back in and rent their home, which they sold, from the new owners. They won’t be able to do that much longer, and unless they have a positive answer, I’m not sure exactly what they’re supposed to do for their retirement. But the fact of the matter is that before these changes, this wouldn’t have occurred.

This is a plot of land where there already was a home that they’ve knocked down, and they’re going to rebuild. Just the very fact that they have to apply is ridiculous. It’s their prop- erty. It’s their retirement plan. They’re rebuilding a home that already existed. Won’t the minister fix the mess she has created and ensure that this family can be kept whole? Hon. L. Popham:As I said earlier, I’m not familiar with this particular application, and I certainly wouldn’t be able to interfere with that application. I would be happy to sit down with the member and talk to her about what’s going on in her community.

When a new home is going to be rebuilt, no matter where it is, you do have to go through an application process with local government. And if it’s on the agricultural land reserve, you have to go through an application process with the Agricultural Land Commis- sion. It’s as simple as that. DRINKING W ATER PROTECTION IN SHAWNIGAN LAKE W ATERSHED S. Furstenau:Elizabeth and Ed Brennan moved onto their property on Goldstream Heights road in Shawnigan Lake 14 years ago. They sourced their water from a well, and at the time, there were no water quality issues.

But seven years ago their well, which sits next to a property that has been oper- ating as a dumping site for soil, showed a marked increase in lead levels, 20 parts per billion. Since that time, several sites along Stebbings Road and Goldstream Heights road have accepted hundreds of thou- sands of tonnes of soil with little to no oversight from the provincial government. The situation for the Brennans is much more dire. Lead levels in their well have now skyrock- eted to 80 parts per billion, more than 16 times the accept- able levels for lead. My question is to the Minister of Health.

Island Health staff have been to this home and determined that the lead is not coming from the plumbing, indicating that the lead is indeed in the well water. Will Island Health also test for hydrocarbons in the Brennans’ water, and has the provincial health officer been notified of this situation? Hon. A. Dix:Obviously, and the member will understand this, we’re committed to ensuring safe drinking water around British Columbia. The site, as the member suggests, is a private well, serving a single residence.

Obviously, the issues in the neighbourhood mean that there is significant concern in the community as well as, of course, by the family in question. Island Health, as the member suggested, did on-site test- ing on October 10. They found lead levels above acceptable levels, above the guidelines for Canadian drinking water quality. They are determining, as they are working together with the family and with the community, the source of the contamination, which I think is an important question to determine. Once that’s been determined, Island Health will make recommendations as to what actions can be taken.

The member will know, and I think she’s received such briefings as well, that the provincial health officer and others, of course, are aware of this file and would be happy to provide the member with a briefing. Mr. Speaker:The House Leader, Third Party, on a supple- mental. [2:20 p.m.] S. Furstenau:I would recommend that to look for the source of contamination, the site directly adjacent to the Brennans’ property was determined in 2012 to have con- tamination of lead as well as hydrocarbons. This was a con- cern for the community of Shawnigan Lake at the time. Very little action has been taken.

In fact, there has been a massive increase in dumping of soil throughout the northern part of the Shawnigan watershed at a number of sites in this region, Wednesday, October 30, 2019 British Columbia Debates 10367

many of which were determined in 2012 to have contamina- tion already on their sites. Now we have a situation where a local well has lead levels as high as 80 parts per billion, far above the acceptable con- centrations in the drinking water guidelines. My question is, again, to the Minister of Health. Leader- ship is needed to protect drinking water now more than ever. Will the Ministry of Health now coordinate an action plan to identify the risks that all of these sites pose to drinking water in Shawnigan and identify the necessary steps to ensure that these risks are addressed? Hon. A.

Dix: As the member will know, because she’s raised them before, there are significant issues with respect to contaminated sites that the Minister of Environment is taking the lead on at Shawnigan Lake. These are, obviously, significant questions for the community and indeed, I think, for the whole province. In this case, Island Health is taking leadership. They’re taking action on this matter. They’ve been to the site. They’re taking action. They’re going to be making recommendations as to what action is taken. The member is quite right.

And just so we understand and people out there understand, this contamination, the site in question, is not the former aggregate site. We’re talking about another site that previously had been permitted by the Cowi- chan Valley regional district. Action may need to be taken. That is why Island Health is taking the steps to get to the facts, to get to the fundamental information, so any action we take is made on the basis of evidence. PROPERTY TAXES FOR SMALL BUSINESSES AND SPLIT ASSESSMENT PROPOSAL T.

Stone:We’ve been asking the Minister of Municipal Affairs for quite some time now to take action to address the fact that a growing number of small businesses and other organizations are facing massive increases in their property taxes due to the unused airspace above their heads. Now there’s only one day left for this minister to take action in time for the 2020 tax year.

If the minister doesn’t take action now, then an increasing number of businesses are going to face that tough decision of having to lay off employees and close their doors — businesses like Ouisi Bistro and West Restaurant, which have already announced plans to close due to increases in property taxes. The good news is that there is a solution. It’s a solution that’s endorsed by local governments, arts and culture, small business and community organizations. The solution is called the split assessment classification. My question is a simple, straightforward one to the min- ister, and it’s this.

We’ve actually tabled in this House a bill that provides for this solution, split assessment classification. Will the minister call that bill today? Hon. S. Robinson:Let me be clear. This is an issue today because the old government ignored it for well over a decade. They were giddy with glee when real estate prices… Interjections. Mr. Speaker:Members. Hon. S. Robinson:…were spiralling out of control. They were giddy. It created a problem for small business, for non- profits. Then they ignored the problem. Interjections. Mr. Speaker:Members. Hon. S.

Robinson:In fact, in July, we got a letter from the director of the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, who said: “Despite pressure from organizations like the CFIB for well over a decade, government has done nothing. ” For a decade, they ignored the problem that small businesses were saying was really very difficult for them. They chose to ignore it. Well, we chose to take action. We took action by bringing people together to develop ideas for resolving an issue that they ignored. They ignored it, and we took action.

They cre- ated the problem and then ignored it. [2:25 p.m.] We brought a group together to identify tools. There are some long-term opportunities for us to develop a permanent solution. In the meantime, we are looking at some short- term solutions to provide relief to businesses for 2020. Mr. Speaker:The member for Kamloops–South Thomp- son on a supplemental. T. Stone:Well, the minister talks about long-term solu- tions. A growing number of businesses don’t have the long term to wait for solutions to be brought forward by a minis- ter and a government that have been in power for two and a half years.

Not only has the minister done nothing; the Premier has done nothing. The member for Vancouver–West End has done nothing. The member for Vancouver–Point Grey has done nothing. Vancouver-Fairview has done nothing. The eight MLAs in Vancouver on the government side… Interjections. Mr. Speaker:Members. T. Stone:…have done nothing over the past 2½ years to address this issue. Interjections. Mr. Speaker:Members. 10368 British Columbia Debates Wednesday, October 30, 2019

T. Stone:Meanwhile, a growing number of small busi- nesses are facing that very difficult challenge of having to lay off employees and shut their doors because of the lack of urgency and the lack of immediate response on the part of the government. Now, this issue isn’t just confined to Vancouver. Three small businesses in a strip mall in White Rock are grap- pling with combined property tax increases of over $70,000 in one year, a 40 percent increase year over year. An arts and antique business on Granville Street in Van- couver says that it’s closing soon due to the massive increase in property taxes.

Now, we’ve proposed a solution. That solution has been broadly supported by local governments and the broad coalition that I mentioned. I want to read this into the record really quickly: “Split assessment is the best way forward for small business in our community. We’ve tried everything we can here at the local level, but we really need provincial help to get this done. ” Who said that? None other than a good friend of the folks opposite, none other than a former NDP MP , none other than the current mayor of the city of Van- couver. Now, these are the words of the mayor of Vancouver. The question is this.

Will the minister…? Interjections. Mr. Speaker:Members. Members, please allow the mem- ber for Kamloops–South Thompson to finish his question. T. Stone:The members opposite seem to be a little bit prickly about the fact that one of their own has been calling for this split assessment classification. The question is this. Interjections. Mr. Speaker:Members. T.

Stone:Will the minister take the advice of these arts and culture organizations, will she take the advice of small business organizations, will she take the advice of local gov- ernments, will she take the advice of the mayor of Vancouver and call our bill today so that we can debate it and pass it to support small businesses? Hon. S. Robinson:Well, what I won’t do is take advice from the members who ignored the problem for so long. The member opposite suggests that everyone is in agree- ment. Well, I have to tell him — he wasn’t paying attention at the UBCM — it passed, but barely.

Forty-six percent of local government said: “No, not a good idea. Won’t work for us. ” Interjections. Mr. Speaker:Members. Hon. S. Robinson:It is critical that we take the time to get it right, to get the right outcome. In the meantime, we have heard from those local businesses. We have heard from those non-profits. We have committed…. Interjections. Mr. Speaker:Members. Hon. S. Robinson:We have committed to develop a tool that will work for them in the short term to provide them relief, because we care about business.

We want to make sure that people can continue to feed their families so that their businesses can thrive. We’re committed to working with people, rather than the people opposite, who ignored busi- ness, who ignored non-profits, who ignored spiraling-out- of-control real estate prices for well over a decade. [2:30 p.m.] C. Oakes: Well, I would remind the member that the action that she talked about was action that the Small Business Task Force raised over a year ago. What action have we taken? We’ve seen businesses close across the Lower Mainland on her watch.

Maybe 100 days into gov- ernment that excuse flies, but you’ve been in government now for 2½ years. Now, you may not listen to…. Interjections. C. Oakes:Y ou may laugh, and you may joke…. Interjections. Mr. Speaker:Members. C. Oakes:In the meantime, to the Minister of Municipal Affairs and local government: you’ve heard from your stake- holders that this is a significant crisis that needs action. If you won’t listen to your stakeholders, how about you listen to your constituents? The minister is from Coquitlam and must know Michael Hind, the CEO of the Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce.

This is what he has said on behalf of your constituents in your community: “That is why, together with 11 other regional chambers and boards of trade, we submitted a letter to the government for support and action on this pressing problem. ” It’s not good enough for the minister to say that she is aware of the crisis. She needs to act. Tomorrow is the deadline. Will the minister listen to her constituents, take action now, call the bill so that there is a solution for the 2020 tax year? Hon. S. Robinson: I listened to the member’s question quite closely.

First of all, she presents this notion that some- Wednesday, October 30, 2019 British Columbia Debates 10369

how all local governments support the direction of the split class. I have to say that perhaps she wasn’t really paying very close attention at the resolutions debate. There were a number of local governments that expressed serious concern with what they’re proposing. In fact, Cari- boo regional district, Whistler and Lantzville — they argued that creating a new commercial subclass would create chal- lenges for them around fairness. Interjections. Mr. Speaker:Members. Hon. S. Robinson:Whistler argued that the change will not achieve its intent of lowering tax rates for small busi- nesses.

Clearly, they’re not interested in hearing about what local governments have to say, hon. Speaker. That’s rather dis- appointing. That’s rather disappointing that they don’t care what local governments have to say. They also felt that…. Grand Forks argued that local gov- ernments already have tools to adjust tax rate ratios to solve the issue. I want to let the members opposite know that Michael Hind, who is a fabulous constituent…. Interjections. Mr. Speaker:Members, you’re hurting your ability to get another question in. Please. Hon. S.

Robinson:He is a constituent of mine — I’m in regular phone contact with him — who understands how important it is. He appreciates how important it is that we make sure we have a tool that does the right thing. I have assured him, just as I have assured this House, that we are working to develop a tool that will work in the interim so that there will be some tax relief for the 2020 year. We get that that’s really important. We are doing the work. We’re doing that work with the Minister of Finance to make sure there’s a tool that will make a difference for small businesses.

I think it’s also really important to recognize that we will continue to do the work with small businesses, with non- profits, as we address the spiralling-out-of-control real estate prices that those folks on the other side were gleeful about. They were gleeful about out-of-control real estate prices, and we have taken action. We are taking action, and we’re going to continue to take action to make sure that people can afford to live here. Mr. Speaker:The member for Cariboo North on a supple- mental. I’ll allow a short question and a short answer. C. Oakes:Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker, I appreciate that.

Now, if the member had actually been listening, she’ d know that I was actually bringing forth the concerns of chambers of commerce, small business stakeholders. If you won’t listen to the chamber of commerce in your constitu- ency, how about you listen to Aaron Aerts of the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, who said: “Simply put, this bill is good public policy, has wide stakeholder support. ” Again to the minister, neighbourhoods will be changed forever under this minister’s watch. Y ou have an opportunity today, right now, to make change.

Call the bill; help save communities; help save small businesses. Will you act to help small businesses, call the bill for the 2020 tax year, make it happen today? [2:35 p.m.] Hon. S. Robinson:I actually didn’t even hear a question, but again, I’m going to reiterate that we have been taking action and we’ll continue to take action to make sure that we have a permanent solution that works for everybody, as well as interim solutions that work for the 2020 tax year. [End of question period.] Reports from Committees CHILDREN AND YOUTH COMMITTEE N.

Simons:I have the honour to present the second report of the Select Standing Committee on Children and Y outh for the fourth session of the 41st parliament. It’s a report on chil- dren and youth with neurodiverse special needs. I move that the report be taken as read and received. Motion approved. N. Simons: I move that the report be adopted, and in so doing, I would like to make some brief comments. Leave granted. N. Simons:Thank you, everyone.

The Select Standing Committee on Children and Y outh has a unique responsibility to raise awareness of the chal- lenges and issues experienced by some of our most vulner- able populations — children and youth. Over the past year, the committee undertook a special project to examine supports and services for children and youth with neurodiverse special needs and their families. During the spring and early summer, we had the opportun- ity to hear from over 200 parents, caregivers, service pro- viders and community organizations from across this province.

We heard about the challenges families and caregivers face in navigating and accessing a complex system of health, education and social programs and services and how each family’s journey and needs are unique. Their experiences and observations informed the committee’s 16 recommend- 10370 British Columbia Debates Wednesday, October 30, 2019

ations, which are all aimed at streamlining access to and ensuring the timely provision of supports and services for children and youth with neurodiverse special needs and their families. On behalf of all committee members, I’ d like to express our appreciation to everyone who participated in the con- sultation — in particular, the young people, their families and their caregivers, who shared personal stories of strength in the face of adversity. We learned a lot. We were moved by their stories, and we hope that their voices will be reflected in this report.

I’ d like to also take this opportunity to thank the Deputy Chair, the member for Parksville-Qualicum, for being nice to me and for working hard; and all of the members of the committee, who worked very well together. We travelled, and we ate together and really enjoyed our discussions. I’ d like to also thank the Office of the Clerk of Commit- tees — in particular, Jennifer Arril, Karan Riarh and Katey Stickle. Finally, I’ d like to thank the Hansard staff, as well — Amanda Heffelfinger and Simon DeLaat and all those who were back in the bunker making sure our words were tran- scribed accurately. M.

Stilwell:I’ d like to echo the comments from the Chair, the member for Powell River–Sunshine Coast. It is true. I was very nice to him. Occasionally we do see good work that gets done in this House across party lines, and I truly feel that we were able to accomplish much with this report. I truly thank the family members and the caregivers who came along and shared their journeys and their personal stories with us throughout the consultation. It took a lot of strength and energy for them to come and share their very personal stories with the committee.

As well, I’ d like to thank the service providers and the pro- fessionals who help support those families in our communit- ies in all the work that they do in our communities. I think our report and our recommendations not only reflect the need for improved services and supports but really emphasize the importance of awareness and timely identification for those people with neurodiverse conditions. We hope that this will lead to a broader conversation, and hopefully in that conversation, we will normalize the neurodiversity issue and support inclusion in our com- munities around British Columbia.

I, too, would like to acknowledge all the committee mem- bers, who put a lot of work into travelling around and listen- ing and learning from many people — especially the Chair and I, who spent much time working with the Committee Clerk, Jennifer Arril; the Hansard staff, of course, Amanda and Simon; our researchers and report writers, Karan and Katey. They’ve done a fantastic job, and I do believe this is a great collaboration and dedication with this special project. [2:40 p.m.] Mr. Speaker:The question is the adoption of the report. Motion approved. Tabling Documents Hon. G.

Heyman:I have the honour to present theEnvir- onmental Emergency Program 2017-19 Report to Legislature. On October 30, 2017, the Environmental Management Act was brought into force and set a foundation for strength- ening spill response in British Columbia. One of the new requirements is that the minister provide a report to the Legislative Assembly that outlines the administration, oper- ation and effectiveness of this new

section of the Envir- onmental Management Act, 2.1. This first report summar- izes and highlights the achievement of the environmental emergency program for this two-year period and includes an overview of the program, including spill statistics and responses throughout the province. Orders of the Day Hon. M. Farnworth:In this chamber, I call second read- ing, Bill 41, Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act, 2019. [R. Chouhan in the chair.] Second Reading of Bills BILL 41 — DECLARATION ON THE RIGHTS OF INDIGENOUS PEOPLES ACT Hon. S.

Fraser:I would like to acknowledge the territory of theLək̓ ʷəŋin̓ əŋ-speaking people and thank the Esquimalt and Songhees Nations for allowing us to do our business here today. I move that Bill 41 be now read a second time. Bill 41 will align B.C. ’s laws with the 2007 United Nations declaration on the rights of Indigenous peoples and the con- stitutional rights of Indigenous peoples in Canada. It sets the UN declaration as the framework for reconciliation in Brit- ish Columbia, as called for by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s call to action No. 43. Before I go further, I would like to read from the

preamble to the UN declaration itself, which is included within the bill.

I think it sets the stage well. “ Affirming that indigenous peoples are equal to all other peoples, while recognizing the right of all peoples to be different, to consider themselves different, and to be respected as such, “ Affirming also that all peoples contribute to the diversity and richness of civilizations and cultures, which constitute the common heritage of humankind, “ Affirming further that all doctrines, policies and practices based on or advocating superiority of peoples or individuals on the basis of national origin or racial, religious, ethnic or cultural differences are Wednesday, October 30, 2019 British Columbia Debates 10371

racist, scientifically false, legally invalid, morally condemnable and socially unjust, “Reaffirming that indigenous peoples, in the exercise of their rights, should be free from discrimination of any kind, “Concerned that indigenous peoples have suffered from historic injustices as a result of, inter alia, their colonization and dispossession of their lands, territories and resources, thus preventing them from exercising, in particular, their right to development in accordance with their own needs and interests, “Recognizing the urgent need to respect and promote the inherent rights of indigenous peoples which derive from their political, eco- nomic and social structures and from their cultures, spiritual tradi- tions, histories and philosophies, especially their rights to their lands, territories and resources, “Recognizing also the urgent need to respect and promote the rights of indigenous peoples affirmed in treaties, agreements and oth- er constructive arrangements with States, “Welcoming the fact that indigenous peoples are organizing them- selves for political, economic, social and cultural enhancement and in order to bring to an end all forms of discrimination and oppression wherever they occur, [2:45 p.m.] “Convinced that control by indigenous peoples over developments affecting them and their lands, territories and resources will enable them to maintain and strengthen their institutions, cultures and tra- ditions, and to promote their development in accordance with their aspirations and needs, “Recognizing that respect for indigenous knowledge, cultures and traditional practices contributes to sustainable and equitable develop- ment and proper management of the environment, “Emphasizing the contribution of the demilitarization of the lands and territories of indigenous peoples to peace, economic and social progress and development, understanding and friendly relations among nations and peoples of the world, “Recognizing in particular the right of indigenous families and communities to retain shared responsibility for the upbringing, train- ing, education and well-being of their children, consistent with the rights of the child, “Considering that the rights affirmed in treaties, agreements and other constructive arrangements between States and indigenous peoples are, in some situations, matters of international concern, in- terest, responsibility and character, “Considering also that treaties, agreements and other constructive arrangements, and the relationship they represent, are the basis for a strengthened partnership between indigenous peoples and States, “ Acknowledging that the Charter of the United Nations, the Inter- national Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, as well as the Vi- enna Declaration and Programme of Action, affirm the fundamental importance of the right to self-determination of all peoples, by virtue of which they freely determine their political status and freely pursue their economic, social and cultural development, “Bearing in mind that nothing in this Declaration may be used to deny any peoples their right to self-determination, exercised in con- formity with international law, “Convinced that the recognition of the rights of indigenous peoples in this Declaration will enhance harmonious and cooperative relations between the State and indigenous peoples, based on prin- ciples of justice, democracy, respect for human rights, non-discrim- ination and good faith, “Encouraging States to comply with and effectively implement all their obligations as they apply to indigenous peoples under interna- tional instruments, in particular those related to human rights, in consultation and cooperation with the peoples concerned, “Emphasizing that the United Nations has an important and con- tinuing role to play in promoting and protecting the rights of indi- genous peoples, “Believing that this Declaration is a further important step for- ward for the recognition, promotion and protection of the rights and freedoms of indigenous peoples and in the development of relevant activities of the United Nations system in this field, “Recognizing and reaffirming that indigenous individuals are en- titled without discrimination to all human rights recognized in in- ternational law, and that indigenous peoples possess collective rights which are indispensable for their existence, well-being and integral development as peoples, “Recognizing that the situation of indigenous peoples varies from region to region and from country to country and that the signific- ance of national and regional particularities and various historical and cultural backgrounds should be taken into consideration, “Solemnly proclaims the following United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples as a standard of achievement to be pursued in a spirit of partnership and mutual respect. ” That is our aim here with this legislation — legislation that was developed in partnership with the First Nations Leader- ship Council, legislation that provides a collaborative frame- work for reconciliation between the provincial government and Indigenous peoples in British Columbia.

I have spent some time reflecting on this point: developed in partnership with Indigenous peoples. When you think about the history of this province and the laws that have been created, how often could any of us truly say that? [2:50 p.m.] With this legislation, we are affirming the human rights of Indigenous peoples in law in this province, in British Col- umbia, instead of omitting them. We are setting a path that affirms our commitment to working with Indigenous gov- ernments instead of denying their role as governments.

And we are taking a further step towards finally working together for important reasons like an economy that we all can par- ticipate in equitably, instead of investing in conflict, court cases and concessions. It is time not just to contemplate a new path but to forge one together. This legislation is about ending discrimination, upholding human rights and ensuring more justice and fairness. Instead of uncertainty and lawsuits, we can build a robust and sustainable economy by working together. We can create opportunities for Indigenous peoples, families and com- munities so we all prosper.

A future shaped through sustained connections and rela- tionships — that’s how we approach this legislation. We worked as partners with the First Nations Leadership Coun- cil, the leadership council that represents the shared interests of nations across the province, through the B.C. Assembly of First Nations, the First Nations Summit and the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs. It is historic to have this kind of collabor- ation with Indigenous peoples. We are truly building a new relationship, government-to-government, based on respect and recognition of inherent rights.

It’s a relationship that will be strengthened as we move forward together. That theme of collaboration applies within the provincial government as well. I’m standing here today in this place as the B.C. Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconcili- ation, but I’m only one member of the provincial cabinet. We don’t work alone. We don’t work in silos. The work of each ministry crosses into other ministries. We work as a team. Nowhere is this more evident than in Indigenous Relations, 10372 British Columbia Debates Wednesday, October 30, 2019

which touches the work of every other ministry across gov- ernment. Pursuing reconciliation with Indigenous peoples is a cross-government responsibility. To truly demonstrate our collective resolve, reconciliation has to be a continuous thread that runs through every government policy and pro- gram. That is why the Premier mandated every minister in our government with the responsibility to implement the UN declaration on the rights of Indigenous peoples and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s calls to action.

Now, the TRC called on governments to implement the UN declaration as the framework for reconciliation. The UN declaration has 46 articles. They emphasize the Indi- genous rights to live in dignity; to maintain and strengthen Indigenous institutions, cultures and tradi- tions; and to pursue development based on Indigenous needs and aspirations. The UN declaration is a statement of basic human rights of Indigenous peoples. It does not create new rights at the expense of other people’s rights.

It expresses long-established human rights as they apply to Indigenous peoples — rights like self-government, to be free from discrimination, access to education, health care, and equitable social and economic outcomes. These are the kinds of rights we all expect to have in the course of our daily lives, accepted and valued human rights that Canadians have helped define and fight for, human rights that are the foundation of our Charter of Rights and Freedoms, human rights that are reflected in the Aboriginal rights that are recognized and affirmed in

section 35 of our constitution, rights that the courts have consistently and repeatedly upheld. That includes the Supreme Court decision on the Tsilhqot’in Nation, which recognized Abori- ginal title for the first time in Canadian history. This historic decision set a new and higher standard for the recognition of rights of Indigenous peoples. [2:55 p.m.] The UN declaration is a widely respected international human rights instrument, both here in Canada and around the world. It has been endorsed by 148 countries, including Canada.

Adopting and implementing the UN declaration was one of our platform commitments, and that’s what we’re doing. The province has made significant progress in implementing the UN declaration since 2017. We’re modernizing the envir- onmental assessment process through new legislation and implementing Grand Chief Ed John’s recommendations to help to keep Indigenous children out of care and with their families and communities.

We’re committing $550 million over ten years to sup- port the construction of 1,750 affordable housing units off reserve and, for the first time, on reserve and dedicating $50 million towards the work of the First Peoples Cultural Council and First Nations communities to revitalize Indi- genous languages. We’re implementing a new K-to-12 curriculum that makes sure children in B.C. are taught about Indigenous cul- ture and history, making sure that Indigenous children can see their cultures and histories accurately reflected in that curriculum.

We’re contributing more than $70 million to enhancing mental health and addictions supports for Indigenous peoples, shaped and delivered by Indigenous peoples, including two new urban treatment centres and six others to be renovated and rebuilt across this province. We’re establishing the first-ever Indigenous program at the University of Victoria — not the first in the province, not the first in the country, but the first in the world; and making fundamental changes to the way that we make treat- ies to guide a long-term relationship instead of extinguishing rights and freezing our treaty relationships in time.

And we’re sharing a stable, long-term source of revenue from one level of government to another so First Nations can invest in self-determination, cultural renewal and services that make life better for families. This legislation will help us build on this progress and make a real difference in the lives of Indigenous families and everyone across British Columbia. I want to acknowledge, also, the progress made by govern- ments over the past 25 years. There are many lessons learned about what has worked and what hasn’t worked.

An import- ant lesson for all of us is that to truly make progress, we need to recognize the human rights of Indigenous peoples. That is the core of this bill, Bill 41. Let’s talk about the bill itself for a few moments, please. I will draw your attention first to the

interpretation sec- tion. That

section would typically be called the

definitions section. But for this bill, we didn’t want to take that kind of colonial approach, so we have called it

interpretation instead of definition. The bill acknowledges the aspects of the UN declaration that already reflect international conventions or internation- al customary law and that already apply to the laws of British Columbia. While this bill does not, in and of itself, give the UN declaration legal force and effect, it does not delay or affect that current application of the UN declaration. The purpose of the bill is to affirm the application of the UN declaration to the laws of British Columbia.

The declar- ation will be a foundational framework for the work that needs to be done in relation to our laws in British Colum- bia. I will add that within our commitment to implement the UN declaration throughout government, its application also extends to policies and operating practices. Over time as laws are built or modified, they will be aligned with the UN declaration. The bill requires government to develop an action plan. We will do that in partnership and cooperation with Indi- genous peoples.

The legislation will require annual reporting to monitor progress on the action plan, all in collaboration and consultation with Indigenous peoples. The action plan and reporting will provide transparency and accountability for the work ahead. The bill, and indeed the UN declaration, recognizes the Wednesday, October 30, 2019 British Columbia Debates 10373

importance of self-determination and self-government. It will allow us the flexibility to recognize more forms of Indi- genous governments than we have been able to do in agree- ment-making. [3:00 p.m.] This bill provides room for Indigenous peoples to make decisions about their governing structures as they attempt to move out from under the Indian Act. That could exclude, for example, governing bodies such as traditional cultural entit- ies, multiple nations working together as a collective, hered- itary governments or a combination of elected and heredit- ary governments. The important

part is that it is based on what the nation chooses, and that supports a key element of the declaration around self-determination. That also provides clarity for government. I believe it will also provide more clarity for businesses and communities about who they should engage when working with Indigenous partners. The final key aspect of the bill is to provide for a new and additional type of agreement. It’s providing a tool for the province and Indigenous governments to develop true joint decision-making agreements. This legislation creates the framework around how these partnerships will be built.

It will provide structure and add clear processes for how joint decision-making would happen, while ensuring administrative fairness and transparency. Such agreements can support predictability for good projects to move ahead and a mechanism for Indigenous peoples to fully participate in decisions that affect them. This legislation is enabling, so we won’t see the world change overnight once it is passed. It is a measured step on the shared path to reconciliation. A question often raised when we talk about the UN declaration is around free, prior and informed consent and whether that amounts to a veto.

Countless officials, as well as leading experts, have explained in detail and with clarity how consent and veto are different, fundamentally different. For example, James Anaya, the former special rapporteur for the rights of Indigenous peoples, has explained that free, prior and informed consent — that standard — is meant to ensure that all parties work together in good faith, that they make every effort to achieve mutually acceptable arrange- ments and that a focus should be on building consensus. This is quite different than veto.

In fact, the UN declaration does not contain the word “veto, ” nor does this legislation contemplate or create a veto. This legislation does not limit the right of government to make decisions in the public interest, but there are many decisions where we need to make those decisions with Indi- genous peoples. This legislation gives us the tools to get an orderly, structured, transparent process for that. The province is expected to consult and cooperate in good faith, as called for in the UN declaration, when considering decisions that may affect Indigenous peoples.

If government has met this condition, there may be occasions when a dis- puted project goes forward, and there may be occasions where a project does not go forward. Every project is unique, with many factors that go into the decision-making for approvals. But when you create and follow due process, that is not a veto. What the legislation will ensure is that there is transpar- ency and clarity in the process so that businesses will know from the get-go what is expected as they move through it.

There is a better chance of agreement by working together, by involving Indigenous communities and listening to their knowledge and concerns. That way a project plan can address them. Our government wants sustainable economic growth because it benefits people and communities all over this province. We are committed to growing our economy so that we can provide the services that British Columbians — all British Columbians — depend on. Indigenous govern- ments are telling us they want the same thing. Too often we have found ourselves in ongoing cycles of conflict and court challenges.

Litigation and conflict have been major sources of uncertainty for all of us. This new approach moves us towards respectful partnerships that foster predictability, good jobs and opportunities, while respecting the rights of Indigenous peoples. This bill will contribute to B.C. achiev- ing its fullest economic and social capacity. [3:05 p.m.] I want, also, to point out that in many ways, the business community is ahead of government on this.

Many compan- ies have recognized the opportunities in moving forward in a collaborative way with First Nations, and they’re seeing the investment certainty that comes from that. We are pro- posing, with this bill, a consistency with many companies’ efforts. There’s a better chance of an agreement by working together. Outcomes will be better. Not working together and ignoring Indigenous rights almost guarantee disagreement. Bringing Indigenous people into the conversation from the beginning helps create certainty for industry and creates space for Indigenous peoples to benefit economically, socially, culturally.

Collaboration is already happening, and it’s working. This legislation codifies what is happening in many cases already on the ground. Because of the focus on the right to free, prior and informed consent, we don’t always see the conversation include the social benefits that I believe will come from this legislation. This is about human rights — the right to things like self- determination, to education, to freedom of expression, to economic and social opportunity, and to enjoy those rights free of discrimination. They are the basis of our society.

The UN declaration is a statement of the human rights of Indi- genous peoples. Implementing it is about ending discrimin- ation, upholding human rights and ensuring more economic justice and fairness. I believe most citizens now understand that those rights have not been honoured for Indigenous peoples by Crown governments, but despite countless injustices faced as a res- ult of colonization, it’s important to recognize the strengths and resilience and perseverance of Indigenous peoples. I 10374 British Columbia Debates Wednesday, October 30, 2019

have seen this in every community that I have visited as Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation, as have the ministers before me. Upholding and recognizing the rights of Indigenous peoples will foster harmonious and cooperative relations among British Columbians and Indigenous peoples going forward. So we want to keep building and strengthening our relationships together, based on the principles of justice, peace, democracy, respect for human rights, non-discrimin- ation and good faith. That is how we are approaching recon- ciliation.

Child protection, language revitalization, revenue-shar- ing, affordable housing, mental health and addictions, eco- nomic development and land use planning. By continuing the work we are doing in so many of these areas of govern- ment to advance reconciliation, I believe that implementing the UN declaration can help us achieve even greater things together — accomplishments that will make a difference to families and communities all across this province.

Together we can end the epidemic of Indigenous children in government care, see Indigenous students graduating from high school and attending post-secondary in record numbers, raise the standard of living so Indigenous families don’t have to experience poverty through generations. It’s going to take all of us — businesses, government, all mem- bers of this House and communities — in partnership with Indigenous peoples to get this right. This will be a lasting leg- acy that enables us to turn a corner in British Columbia.

Throughout this process, we are committed to being transparent and bringing all British Columbians along. We’ve been transparent getting to this point. Our commit- ment to implement the UN declaration is clearly stated in all ministers’ mandate letters. We announced the intention to introduce such legislation a year ago. We reiterated that commitment in the budget and throne speeches this year. We’ve engaged with First Nations, local governments, business, other stakeholders. That will continue as we move forward with aligning laws and developing the action plan.

This work will be done in collaboration with Indigenous peoples, with opportunities for engagement with local gov- ernments, with industry, with business, other stakeholders and the public. The legislation is a framework to ensure the laws of Brit- ish Columbia uphold the rights of Indigenous peoples. It will give us a plan for how to do that. It is a tool for bring- ing rules, transparency and accountability when the gov- ernment works with Indigenous governments on decisions affecting their rights.

It is another step forward that reflects our commitment to working with Indigenous peoples and all British Columbians towards a more just and prosperous future for all. [3:10 p.m.] It is not a switch that will change every statute and process in the government the day after this act is proclaimed, nor is it a veto over development. It is a measured next step in our journey together towards reconciliation in British Columbia. Again, I want to recognize the efforts of previous govern- ments, the efforts that they have made.

These conversations and efforts have been going on for a long time, led by many in this House on all sides. I’ve used this quote before, from former Attorney General Geoff Plant, and it seems quite fit- ting to use it here today. He put it very eloquently: “The question that arises is not whether Indigenous people should have special protection, but rather whether we are finally ready to admit they are entitled to the same basic rights that most of the rest of us take for granted. ” We have a chance to show, not just our country but the world, what true leadership looks like.

Let’s be the province that everyone points to as an example. Let’s commit to doing this together. People are going to ask why: “Why do we need legislation if things are already changing? The work is being done; partnerships are being built. ” Well, I’ve been an MLA for almost 15 years. I’ve had the honour to spend a good deal of my time with the Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation portfolio, both as minister and as critic. I’ve had the opportunity to meet people whose stor- ies helped give rise to this legislation.

I’ve met Indigenous people in communities all around the province — thriving, vibrant communities, in spite of the shameful colonial his- tory and the intergenerational impacts that has created. The atrocities of the past were created by the laws of the past. Ask those who are impacted how significant words on paper were in their lives. Ask yourselves: which side of his- tory do you want to be on? I’m going to choose the right side of history, and I am confident that all members of this House are dedicated to reconciliation. J.

Rustad:I’m pleased to stand and take my place in this debate on Bill 41, the Declaration on the Rights of Indigen- ous Peoples Act. I want to thank the minister for his words in introduction. I know that many of those comments were very heartfelt, in terms of his desire for improving reconciliation. It is a great honour, in the time that I’ve been here and in the time that I may still yet have in front of me to be here, to be able to stand and speak on behalf of the people of Nechako Lakes and, in particular, for the 13 First Nations that are part of Nechako Lakes.

There are others, of course, with overlapping boundaries. I’ve had an opportunity to work very closely with many First Nations in my riding — as well as, of course, through previous roles right across the province. I can tell you that it’s interesting to hear the stories from First Nations and their experiences, and an opportunity to share some of those experiences. I think back to many of the meetings, in some of the first meetings I had, where First Nation leaders and people in their ridings told me about their history and provided me with books and information.

Believe me, I’ve got quite a library now of books on First Nations. When you look at the history before contact, before Europeans came into the area, it’s quite interesting looking at how First Nations developed and how they worked togeth- Wednesday, October 30, 2019 British Columbia Debates 10375

er — quite extensively, in terms of their culture, in terms of their governance structure and in terms of trade. In fact, I think, when one of the first European boats showed up on the shore, the first thing that happened is that people went out in canoes wanting to trade, wanting to be able to engage in trade. That’s, of course, the basis of economic develop- ment. That’s the basis of our economy and activities. This trade and this engagement carried on until a point in time where more and more Europeans and others came to these lands, came to these areas. Then we started running into some challenges and issues.

There were conflicts that started up. There were particular actions, I guess, that gov- ernments took. [3:15 p.m.] As British Columbia entered into Confederation, there were approaches around trying to do some treaties and other types of things, but it was always from a very — as it has been put — colonial perspective. It’s not much different than what has happened in other places around the world.

When you look at the history, for example, in places like Chile or Venezuela or other types of places, or Colombia, where Europeans came in, they basic- ally took over and wiped out culture and wiped out the sense of belonging. Matter of fact, I had an opportunity, as min- ister, to meet with a delegation from Chile that was trying to figure out: how do they rebuild that First Nation identity? It had been 400 years, and there wasn’t a sense of nations. There wasn’t a sense of leadership. There was just an under- standing that there was something missing.

They came to British Columbia, and they talked to us about what we were doing, because we were leaders in many aspects in terms of what we did and how we worked with First Nations. So I think back on Canada’s approach, through the Indian Act, and…. Quite frankly — I’ll just say this bluntly — I’m actually kind of ashamed that Canada still has an Indian Act. I think it should go, and the federal govern- ment needs to figure out how to do that. Unfortunately, that hasn’t happened. The Indian Act has a long history and a painful history for many First Nations.

In that experience and those engage- ments I had with First Nations around the province, they talked about, you know, how their right to potlatch was taken away, to form a government, the ability to bring together people to be able to work on and talk about issues; how regalia was seized; how people were put in prison if they tried to practise their way of government. I think one of the more startling things for me, even though I had read and knew about residential schools and the impacts of that on First Nations people…. I had an opportunity to go and visit with the Stó:lō people out in Chilliwack.

They have a little bit of a museum of artifacts and stuff. One of the sections they have in there is a

section about residential schools. I know that at the time, when the nation put that in there, people were like: “Why are you putting that in here? My god, such a horrible part of our history. ” The leadership at the time said: “But it is our history. It’s import- ant that people learn and understand about our history. ” So they had this. One of the things that I saw there, which was shocking and surprising, was a list of the penalties, the punish- ments, that were to be dealt out. Y ou know, we’ve all been through school. We’ve all seen the rules in a school.

But to imagine that there would be severe punishment if you spoke your own language…. I mean, that’s just crazy to think about in today’s society, yet that is what was there. That was what the list was, amongst many other things that I won’t go into here today. We often wonder, then, you know…. I mean, so recon- ciliation…. We’re advancing in our relationships. It’s import- ant to think about where we have come from, and what has built to these moments today, whether it’s through agree- ments or through this legislation or other types of actions that are going on. From the Indian Act, you know, advance….

Residential schools came to an end, and I think that was good. The one question that really was out there, whether it’s the white paper or whether it goes to the constitution in 1982 that rec- ognized the inclusion of title as part of Indigenous rights, through various court cases…. But in the early 1990s, there was a decision in British Columbia to try to advance treaties, to try to advance this recognition and this methodology for dealing with the land question. There has been some success — I would say limited suc- cess — for the nations that have gone through and actually succeeded in being in treaty.

They’re seeing, you know, advancement of their culture, of their people, of their eco- nomy. I honour them and recognize the strength in what they’ve done. But for a majority of nations, it hasn’t been able to achieve what it was originally hoped to be. That’s really, you know, a key piece, which was around the land question. But I’ll come back to that in a bit. But that’s a piece that is still sort of hanging out there, very significantly, that govern- ments….

Whether it is federal or provincial or Indigenous nations, we need to figure out how we come together and address that question. [3:20 p.m.] I look at, you know…. So we advanced from the treaty process and how developed and how relationships started to advance slowly. But they did start to advance in terms of engagement. Then along came a different government in the early 2000s, and there were some rocky starts. But there was a decision, a deliberate decision, to work towards reconcili- ation.

As a matter of fact, we were the first jurisdiction in the country — I think maybe even still the only jurisdic- tion in the country — that actually had the word “recon- ciliation” in the ministry’s title. We used to be the Ministry for Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation, and that has since been changed to Indigenous. But it was about rela- tions and reconciliation. I think about where we came from through that period of time. I’ve been part of the government since 2005 through, 10376 British Columbia Debates Wednesday, October 30, 2019

and I had the chance and the honour of being minister for just over four years. That advancement in our relations and reconciliation was quite remarkable. Y ou look at the rest of Canada and approaches, and we are a decade or two ahead of where other governments are in their thinking and in their work with First Nations. Many governments are starting to catch up and do things, but it was a dramatic change in terms of how things advanced in British Columbia. The first time there was ever revenue-sharing was here in British Columbia.

That was something that we decided to do and we’re proud of, because there are activities and things that are happening on the land base that, for far too long, First Nations were excluded from. They needed an opportunity to be able to engage eco- nomically, to be able to help build and support their people for jobs and for prosperity, quite frankly. That continued to advance, and it started off slow. I remember when I was first appointed in 2013, we had what was called 18 non-treaty agreements or whatever. They ended up being renamed several times — reconciliation agreements and other types of things.

But there were 18 of them. I was appointed, and the Premier gave me a man- date and said: “Y our mandate is to get ten more of these agreements signed. ” That was my mandate when I was first appointed in 2013. Well, I’m pretty proud of the fact that by the time 2017 came around and I was in there for just over four years, we had signed 435 of those agreements, over and above what was done before — not ten.

As a matter of fact, after we achieved the first year and we had signed about 60 in the first year, the Premier’s staff had come in and said: “Well, you know you’re an overachiever, I suppose. ” I kind of chuckled a little bit, and they said: “Well, what target do you want to set next year?” I said: “What tar- get do you want?” How many of these do you want me to sign? There was so much opportunity to advance reconcili- ation in the work that we were doing. As a matter of fact, quite frankly, the only thing that held us back from doing significantly even more of those was we just didn’t have the resources.

We didn’t have the people to be able to advance more of those types of agreements. There were so many more that we were working on. The First Nations were coming and saying: “We want to achieve this; we want to do various things. ” We were open. How do we do that? How do we work together? How do we try to achieve these things? As a matter of fact, we started working on agreements to start actually addressing land.

We had three pilot projects to go outside of treaty to figure out: how can we start a process of transferring land and coming to that ultimate resolution, that ultimate issue that has been so sticky for governments for so long? And that was to deal with land. Some of those pilot projects have advanced in other for- ums. Some of them haven’t gone forward, but it was a start and a process. I think back to my riding, and I think back to these agreements and the kinds of changes that have happened. One of the nations that I’m particularly proud to work with….

I’m proud to work with all of the nations in the rid- ing, but I want to highlight the Cheslatta Carrier Nation just for a moment. When I was first elected, and then my riding changed to include the Burns Lake area and where the Cheslatta people were, I had an opportunity to meet, and I did that shortly after my re-election, which was in 2009. We talked about their priorities and issues, and they told me their story. They told me about what happened. I had no idea what that his- tory was until I had the chance to have that meeting.

When the dam was put in on the Nechako River at the time, there was the standard protocol that was followed, which was in the 1950s. We think back now, and it’s just crazy to think that that was the way things were done, but there was a process. [3:25 p.m.] Y ou can go back and look at the articles in the newspaper from the time, and it says: “Well, this is going to impact anybody. There are just a few natives living in the area. ” That’s what the articles said at the time. It’s amazing how dismissive….

The fact that this was traditional territory and there were people living in this territory was just dismissed because it was deemed to be just natives living there. I was shocked when I read those articles. I talked to the Cheslatta people about it. They said: “Y eah, when the dam was being built, there were people who came around to our communities. There were a num- ber of reserves in the area, and there were homes and stuff that were built there. Somebody came and knocked on the door and said: ‘Y ou’ve got two weeks to move. The flood’s coming. ’” That was the level of engagement.

That was the level of respect back in the 1950s with First Nations. That’s our his- tory. It’s important to remember that history. So they did. They packed up their things, and they were moved off of their traditional territory. They were moved onto the traditional territory of other nations in my riding and set up a reserve there and set up their office and their life there. After they left, they burned the

Document details

Collection	British Columbia — Debates (Hansard)
Citation	20191030pm-Hansard-n286
Type	hansard
Volume / chapter	20191030pm Hansard n286
Language	en
Format	pdf
Source	PROVINCIAL
Identifier	791e45a140a8ffdba5f57ebfd13b11f882bad6e3

Source file is stored in the law ingest library (pdf).