British Columbia Hansard — 12 February 2019, p.m., Issue 196 (41st Parliament, 4th Session)

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British Columbia — Debates (Hansard)

Fourth Session, 41st Parliament OFFICIAL REPORT OF DEBATES (HANSARD) Tuesday, February 12, 2019 Afternoon Sitting Issue No. 196 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 Citizens’ Services.................................................................................................................................................... Hon.

Jinny Sims 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.................................................................................................................. 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 Clerk of the Legislative Assembly ....................................................................................................................................................Craig James 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 Sergeant-at-Arms ................................................................................................................................................................................. Gary Lenz Acting Sergeant-at-Arms......................................................................................................................................... Randall Ennis, MMM, CD

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 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, Hon.

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 Vacant...........................................................................................................Nanaimo 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 ..........................................................................................................Vacant 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........................................................................... Hon. 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 40; BC Green Party 3; Independent 1; Vacant 1

CONTENTS Tuesday, February 12, 2019 Afternoon Sitting Page Speech from the Throne ......................................................................................................................................................... 6965 Introduction and First Reading of Bills................................................................................................................................ 6970 Bill 1 —

An Act to Ensure the Supremacy of Parliament Hon. D. Eby Motions..................................................................................................................................................................................... 6970 Appointment of Deputy Speaker Hon. M. Farnworth Appointment of Assistant Deputy Speaker M. Polak Appointment of Deputy Chair, Committee of the Whole Hon. M. Farnworth Printing ofVotes and Proceedings Hon. D. Eby Appointment of Select Standing Committees Hon. J. Horgan

TUESDAY , FEBRUARY 12, 2019 The House met at 2:04 p.m. [Mr. Speaker in the chair.] This being the first day of the fourth session of the 41st Legislative Assembly of the province of British Columbia for the dispatch of business, pursuant to a proclamation of the Hon. Janet Austin, Lieutenant-Governor of the province, hon. members took their seats. Mr. Speaker:I ask Shirley Alphonse, elder of the T’Sou-ke Nation, to offer a blessing. [2:05 p.m.] S.

Alphonse:Creator, Great Spirit, as we gather here at the Legislature with our Premier and our Lieutenant-Governor and the elected members of British Columbia and guests, we say thank you. Thank you for the blessings of every day and for Mother Earth and for family and friends. Sacred Mother Earth, all that you are, all that you hold for us as living beings upon your earth and around your earth, we say with deepest gratitude, thank you. For majestic trees — the Standing People; the sweet-scen- ted flowers; the medicine plants and shrubs, we say with deepest gratitude, thank you.

For the strong, protective mountains — the Stone People; for the rolling hills of green grass, we say with deepest grat- itude, thank you. For the life-giving oceans so deep, so beautiful; for pebble beaches; for the clear, sparkling waters of streams; rippling, babbling brooks; rivers of crystal waterfalls; calming, serene lakes, we say with deepest gratitude, thank you. For the metals and stones, elements of the earth, we say with deepest gratitude, thank you. For the four-leggeds; the winged ones; the water-dwellers; insects; creatures of land, sea and sky, we say with deepest gratitude, thank you.

For Grandmother Moon, serene and calm; Grandfather Sun, energizing warmth; Brother Star and Sister Star, spark- ing light; Father Sky, clear and blue; Mother Earth, beauty and bounty, we say with deepest gratitude, thank you. For refreshing rains and thunder beings, for cleansing winds of the four directions, for purifying snow, for the four seasons, we say with deepest gratitude, thank you. Creator, Great Spirit, thank you with deepest gratitude.

The footprints Mother Earth holds of our ancestors of the four nations, once here, now guide us with sacred teachings to carry on in a good way of respect, kindness, care, gener- osity, compassion for the sake of all children now all over the world and children who will come behind us, that they may live in a way of peace and harmony with the beautiful Moth- er Earth, happy to look after us. [SENĆOŦEN was spoken.] Mr. Speaker:I now call on Rev. Dr. Keith Howard of the United Church of Canada to say prayers. K.

Howard: Our God, we gather with the immediate knowledge of what we can control and what we cannot, and humility is not a bad thing. Holy God, you bring order out of the chaos that breeds disrespect, and you bring chaos out of order that is unjust. So we ask your presence in this chamber and building, which has known its share of both chaos and order.

Y ou seek and show respect to all people, regardless of our cultural background, sexual orientation, gender identity, the state of our closet or bank account, and we are grateful, for we are all too aware of the many relationships that are strained, the gaps that exist between our intention and implementation, our rhetoric and reality. [2:10 p.m.] Our God, as a society and as a province, we face historic decisions that will impact our children, grandchildren and our planet. The ethical challenges are of biblical proportion. The political tasks are even more daunting.

So it is not out of custom or formality that we request your wisdom infuse these chosen people and their conversation. We ask for your blessing upon them, their staff and famil- ies, who continue to sacrifice not only for their sake but for the good of we, the public. Give them health — mentally, physically and spiritually. Protect them, for they are subject to unwarranted abuse and flattery intended to exploit. Keep them from the tempta- tions of those with power and profile. Do not dwell upon the trash-talking, high-sticking and cross-checking that may occur, but call them, allow them, to be their best selves.

This is a lot to ask. But we do not discount the skills, intelligence, integrity and goodwill in this chamber. We trust in the power of your imagination and hope. All of these bold and outrageous things we dare to ask because you said we could. Amen. Mr. Speaker:Thank you, Reverend. On behalf of all members of the Legislative Assembly, I want to welcome everyone here today. Thank you for being here. Hon. Members, Her Honour the Lieutenant-Governor is in the precinct. Please remain seated while we await her arrival.

Her Honour the Lieutenant-Governor requested to attend the House, was admitted to the chamber and was pleased to deliver the following gracious Speech from the Throne. Speech from the Throne Hon. J. Austin (Lieutenant-Governor):Good afternoon, everyone. 6965

We are gathered on the territory of the Lekwungen-speak- ing peoples, the Songhees and Esquimalt First Nations. I wish also to acknowledge with respect the long history, cul- ture and wisdom of all of British Columbia’s Indigenous peoples, including the Inuit and the Métis. I want to thank, especially, elder Shirley Alphonse of the T’Sou-ke First Nation for providing a blessing at today’s pro- ceedings.HÍSW̱ ḴE. [2:15 p.m.] At the opening of this fourth session of the 41st parlia- ment, we bid farewell to some remarkable British Columbi- ans.

We mourn the 1,489 friends, neighbours and loved ones lost to overdoses in 2018. We are grateful to the community workers, first responders, health care professionals and peers who are working together to respond to this emergency and to comfort those who are coping with tremendous loss. We stand in solidarity with the Women’s Memorial March and remember the hundreds of women who died, are miss- ing or were murdered in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside, many of them Indigenous. Tomorrow Moose Hide gather- ings throughout British Columbia will see men and women pledge to end violence against women and children.

We are at a critical moment in history in the struggle for gender equality. Y our government is joining people around the world who are raising their voices, telling their stories and fighting to end gender-based violence. We respectfully remember Hereditary Chief Andy Thomas of the Esquimalt Nation. We remember with affection former members of this Legislature, including Bill Goodacre, Ray Parkinson, Barrie Clarke and Jim Nielsen.

We mark the passing of Tahsis mayor Jude Schooner; former Port McNeill mayor Gerry Furney, Duncan council- lor John Horgan, Metchosin councillor Moralea Milne and Vernon councillor Bob Spiers. We thank the loyal public servants who serve us ably, including curator emeritus Dr. Daniel Gallacher, former Chief Electoral Officer Robert Allan Patterson, forester John Russell and the 31 active members of the B.C. public service we lost last year. We remember retired Sgt.

Shinder Kirk of the Abbots- ford police department, whose 30 years of service in poli- cing was dedicated to fighting gang violence and keeping communities safe. We pay tribute to Const. Ian Jordan of the Victoria police department, who lapsed into a coma after a car accident in September 1987. Ian’s life exemplified the sacrifice of service and the blessings of family, who spent every day by his side. We express our gratitude to Suman Virk, mother of Reena Virk, who transformed the unimaginable pain of losing a child into a positive force to end bullying.

We thank the journalists who informed us and raised our spirits: John Ashbridge, Arthur Black, Angelo Iacobucci, Barb McLintock, Terry Moore and Jim Taylor. We celebrate leaders in sport, arts and culture: Brian Hughes, Larry Kwong, David Chuenyan Lai and Ken Picker- ing. Entrepreneurs and business leaders who believed in giv- ing back: Charles Diamond, Kazuko Komatsu and Ken Mar- tin. And Indigenous elders, leaders and community members: Henry Alfred, Linda Bristol, Harry Chingee, Larry Derrick- son, Mary Gouchie, Dr. Deborah Jacobs, Justa Monk, Daniel Watts, John Webster and Dr. Ellen White.

Too many British Columbians feel that no matter how hard they work, they can’t get ahead. Today and every day your government is working hard to make life better. The problems facing British Columbians today are hurting people and leaving communities behind. Government is making choices to change this. Instead of letting costs rise uncontrolled, your govern- ment is making life more affordable. Instead of leaving com- munities to fend for themselves, your government is improv- ing the services they count on. Instead of focusing on some, your government is opening doors for everyone.

Making life better for people starts with the choices we make every day. This government is putting people first. A belief in people is at the core of the confidence and supply agreement negotiated with the B.C. Green Party caucus, which provides strong and stable government for British Columbia. This agreement, rooted in shared priorities and shared values, has allowed government to make progress on the things that matter most. Affordability remains the biggest challenge facing B.C. families.

Many people are working two or three jobs, com- muting farther for work and spending less time with their families just to make ends meet. But no matter how hard they work, they cannot seem to get ahead. [2:20 p.m.] Rather than letting costs rise uncontrolled, government is doing everything it can to make life more affordable for fam- ilies. Last year government cut MSP premiums in half, saving people up to $450 a year and families up to $900 a year. This year B.C. will eliminate MSP premiums entirely, saving fam- ilies up to $1,800 a year.

This is the largest middle-class tax cut British Columbians have received in a generation. Last year government froze ferry rates on major routes, reduced fares on non-major routes and brought back the 100 percent weekday seniors passenger fare discount. This year government will maintain its freeze on ferry rates for major routes and discounts on minor and northern routes, helping the 22 million passengers who use B.C. Ferries each year. For too long, hundreds of millions of dollars were taken out of B.C. Hydro while customers were stuck paying higher rates.

Government is nearing completion of its phase 1 review of B.C. Hydro and will be taking steps to protect ratepayers and ensure proper oversight as the cor- poration provides affordable, clean and reliable power for generations to come. B.C. is a wealthy province, yet more than half a million 6966 British Columbia Debates Tuesday, February 12, 2019

British Columbians are living below the poverty line. This year B.C. will deliver its first-ever poverty reduction strategy to give people the opportunities and supports they need to reach their full potential. B.C. students are struggling with the costs of higher edu- cation. To help ease the pressure, this government reduced the student loan interest rate by 2.5 percent in 2017. Budget 2019 will help make life a little easier for B.C. students. Every person in this province deserves a place to call home, yet years of inaction on the B.C. housing crisis have left people unable to find affordable housing.

Too many fam- ilies face the impossible choice between a home that meets their needs, paying for child care or buying groceries for their family. Last year government made the biggest invest- ment in housing in B.C. history: $7 billion over ten years. Government’s plan to build supply, curb speculation and improve security for renters is starting to get results.

More than 17,000 homes are underway through government’s housing initiatives, including on-campus homes for stu- dents, Indigenous housing on and off reserve, housing for women and children leaving violence and affordable rentals for middle-income families. In Surrey, Nanaimo, Kamloops, Vancouver, Maple Ridge and many other communities, hundreds of people who are without a home or were living in tents and temporary shel- ters are living in new modular homes. Government’s actions are cooling B.C. ’s housing market and helping people.

Foreign and domestic speculation has dropped, and home prices in the Lower Mainland are beginning to moderate. Vacancy rates for rentals are forecast to rise, and government intervened to limit rent increases. This year government will take further steps to improve rental housing by addressing the recommendations of the Rental Housing Task Force. Y our government will improve the development process by speeding up much-needed rent- al housing and delivering more efficient and effective project approvals.

Y our government will continue to work with part- ners to build the homes that people need, improving housing affordability for young families, renters, seniors and every- one who calls B.C. home. British Columbians are rightly outraged by the possib- ility that our province’s unacceptably high housing prices are fuelled by the profits of crime, both at home and abroad. This government has worked quickly to address money laundering in B.C. casinos. Two independent reviews are underway examining the role of money laun- dering in B.C. real estate.

Their recommendations will provide the basis for immediate action to close loopholes and defend against criminal activity. Y our government will identify the structural causes of money laundering to hold accountable those who are responsible, and your government will keep working with its federal partners to fight money laundering in all its forms. Automobile insurance costs continue to impose a heavy burden on family budgets.

Y ears of apparent inaction and neglect, combined with large annual transfers of financial resources from ICBC to government, created a financial crisis at the Crown corporation. [2:25 p.m.] Y our government has undertaken the most significant reforms to car insurance in a generation. There are new laws, new systems and a new independent tribunal to resolve insurance disputes. British Columbians will start to see the benefits as these reforms take place April 1.

Government believes these reforms will achieve the outcomes British Col- umbians deserve: affordable car insurance, safer roads and a public insurer that isn’t losing money. However, it must be prepared to take further action to keep rates low. Y our government will continue to consider measures to improve the province’s auto insurance system, informed by the experience in other provinces and juris- dictions, coupled with ongoing evaluation of reforms imple- mented to date. If further action is required, your govern- ment will be ready.

British Columbians are entitled to uni- versally available high-quality public auto insurance cover- age at the lowest possible cost. Y our government is determ- ined to deliver. Last year government took its first steps to make quality child care more affordable and more available to more B.C. families. A $1 billion investment over three years, the most significant child care investment in B.C. history, will reduce child care costs, increase the number of spaces and deliver the highest-quality care. Tens of thousands of B.C. families are already enjoying the benefits.

With child care costs reduced by hundreds of dollars a month, young families can consider home owner- ship for the first time. More parents can participate fully in the workforce, confident that their children are getting high- quality care from early childhood educators who know that their work is valued. This year government will set the foundation for the full implementation of B.C. ’s affordable child care program. A key element of this effort will be a collaborative process to develop new legislation to give universal access to quality, affordable child care the force of law.

High cell phone costs are a major burden for middle-class families. Canadians pay some of the highest fees for phones and data in the world. Consumers deserve to know the true cost of the services they buy. This year your government will take action to improve billing transparency, beginning with a consultation and legislative review. Y our government will give consumers the tools they need to get the least expens- ive option possible and encourage the federal government to deliver more affordable cell phone options for people. When it’s impossible to make ends meet, some families need short-term loans.

Building on reforms introduced last year, government will take further steps to crack down on unfair payday loan practices. New legislation will cap fees for cashing government cheques, provide oversight for instal- ment loans and improve consumer education. Last year government heard from thousands of British Columbians about the unfair sale and resale of concert and Tuesday, February 12, 2019 British Columbia Debates 6967

event tickets. People are frustrated that companies will buy up large numbers of tickets and resell them at sky-high prices. This year government will introduce new rules for live ticket sales, including a ban on mass ticket-buying soft- ware and more transparency for all companies selling tickets to live events. Quality public services are the key to stronger, healthier communities. Y our government is investing in public ser- vices to make sure they are accessible, reliable and affordable for everyone.

After years of underfunding, your government is making record investments in education, with more sup- port and better learning environments for students. Y our government has invested more than $900 million to build, expand and upgrade schools and purchase land for future schools in growing communities. Since September 2017, B.C. has approved 24 seismic upgrade projects, with one-third of all projects completed or underway. Many students in B.C. are enjoying smaller class sizes, with the hiring of 3,700 new teachers, including special edu- cation teachers, teacher-psychologists and counsellors.

Government is supporting Indigenous leaders by imple- menting a new First Nations history curriculum and devel- oping full-course offerings in Indigenous languages. Government is making sure schools are welcoming and inclusive by expanding anti-bullying programs and making sure all school districts have resources for mental health and wellness and sexual orientation and gender identity. Public health care is a right, yet too many British Col- umbians can’t find a family doctor and are waiting too long for care. Y our government is making different choices in getting health care working for people.

Last year govern- ment cut or eliminated Fair PharmaCare deductibles for 240,000 people so they no longer have to choose between food and medicine. [2:30 p.m.] To deliver better, faster care for people in all corners of the province, government has opened a network of urgent primary care centres. These new centres will come with 200 more family practice physicians, 200 nurse practitioners and 50 clinical pharmacists and other health care providers. Government is investing in health care across the board, including building, renovating and expanding hospitals in Terrace, Fort St.

James, Surrey, Nanaimo, Kamloops, Rich- mond, North Vancouver, the Cowichan Valley and many other communities. To make sure seniors are getting the quality care they need and deserve, government is increasing staffing levels in residential care homes. Y our government has added thousands more surgeries and MRI exams throughout the province, so people can get the procedures they need faster and closer to home. The overdose emergency is the worst public health crisis in our province’s history. By the end of this day, four people in B.C. will have died from a poisoned, illegal drug supply.

It is difficult, and it is heartbreaking, but there is also hope. Y our government is working to save lives by expanding harm reduction, increasing access to naloxone, addressing the unsafe drug supply and connecting people to life-saving sup- ports, including treatment and recovery. More resources have been allocated to law enforcement to control the crim- inal elements fuelling this crisis. We must not lose sight of services for people living with mental illnesses, particularly young people.

Y our govern- ment is creating an integrated, provincewide network of health and social services for youth, including Foundry well- ness centres. These vital services are part of B.C. ’s actions to help people living with mental health and addictions chal- lenges, where every door is the right door on the path to recovery and healing. British Columbia is a remarkable place, filled with unmatched natural beauty and resources, hard-working people and a thriving economy. For too long, choices were made to benefit the wealthy few.

Y our government is taking a different approach and building a prosperous economy that works for everyone. This government is making differ- ent choices so that people can afford to live and work here, with action on affordable housing, lower costs and fees and affordable child care for B.C. families. These investments are good for people and good for business. This government is investing in skills training to better meet the demands of our labour market, and this govern- ment is rising to the challenges of climate change to pro- tect this beautiful province and create a strong and sus- tainable future.

In a world where climate action is increas- ingly recognized as an emergency, demand is growing for low-carbon products and energy to reduce emissions. The same ideas and technology that drive carbon pollution and improve our quality of life can drive economic growth and attract investment. CleanBC is this government’s road map to reduce emis- sions and create an innovative, low-carbon economy. Cre- ated in partnership with the B.C. Green Party caucus, the CleanBC plan will change how British Columbians get around, with a focus on clean energy vehicles, lower emis- sions, cleaner fuels and active transportation.

By moving to clean, renewable energy, like our abundant supply of hydro- electricity, we will power our growing economy. CleanBC will improve where we live and work, through building retrofits and new net-zero energy standards for new buildings. It will promote industrial electrification and car- bon capture and invite new and existing industries to deliver cleaner operations. Most importantly, it will create jobs and opportunity for people, businesses and communities. Climate change is the greatest challenge of our time. We can and must reduce our emissions, but government can’t do it alone.

First Nations governments, communities and busi- nesses are all partners on the path forward. Y our govern- ment will bring forward measures for the implementation of CleanBC in Budget 2019. Last year this government was proud to announce the largest private sector investment in Canadian history. Enabled by government’s new financial framework, LNG Canada’s liquefied natural gas project will create 10,000 con- 6968 British Columbia Debates Tuesday, February 12, 2019

struction jobs and 950 permanent jobs for B.C. The project will generate $23 billion in government revenue that will be reinvested in the schools, roads, hospitals, housing and ser- vices that families depend on. This project can proceed because government’s four con- ditions are met: a fair rate of return for our natural resources; job opportunities and training for people in B.C.; meaning- ful partnerships with First Nations; and, critically, the project fits within the government’s CleanBC plan. [2:35 p.m.] The benefits of this investment will require your govern- ment’s full commitment for many years.

A continued focus on reconciliation with First Nations, particularly those on whose territory the project will be built, is critical to success. This spring your government will bring forward measures to bring this historic project to fruition. This government is committed to true and lasting recon- ciliation with Indigenous peoples. Last year government and First Nations agreed to share in provincial gaming revenue to support self-government, strong healthy communities and services for families. This stable, long-term revenue will make a substantial difference for people and communities.

This year government has begun working with First Nations to make sure they are full participants in decision- making that affects their rights and lands. B.C. will be the first province in Canada to introduce legislation to imple- ment the United Nations declaration on the rights of Indi- genous peoples, legislation co-developed with the First Nations Leadership Council and other Indigenous organ- izations. This legislation will form the foundation for the province’s work on reconciliation, mandating government to bring provincial laws and policy into harmony with the declaration.

British Columbia’s traditional industries — forestry and mining, oil and gas, fisheries and farming, and renewable electricity — power our economy and form the bedrock of our communities. This government is managing the province’s natural resource economy and making it work for British Columbians by increasing local processing, promot- ing Indigenous partnerships and creating jobs and oppor- tunities for local workers and rural communities. Forestry employs 57,000 British Columbians and supports over 7,000 businesses throughout B.C.

In January, govern- ment announced the coast forest sector revitalization initi- ative as part of government’s work to rebuild a strong and healthy coastal forest sector. These reforms will reduce raw log exports and see more logs and fibre processed in B.C., supporting B.C. workers, their families and communities. After two consecutive years of record-breaking and dif- ficult wildfires, government is standing with communities as they rebuild and recover.

Government has contributed over $100 million through the Canadian Red Cross to help people and communities, and your government has invested $50 million in wildfire prevention over the next three years to help local governments and First Nations reduce wildfire risks in and around their communities. B.C. is a mining province, with mining and mineral exploration adding more than $8 billion to the economy each year. Last year your government created the Mining Jobs Task Force, to make sure B.C. remains an attractive and secure place to invest.

This year government is acting on their recommendations, including improved oversight, more support for innovation in mining and mineral exploration, and promoting Indigenous partnerships. Wild salmon are critical to the success of B.C. ’s economy, to the prosperity of coastal communities and to the lives, cul- ture and history of Indigenous peoples.

Governments, com- munities and First Nations are charting a path forward to protect and restore wild salmon stocks, implement a trans- ition plan for salmon aquaculture in the Broughton Archipelago and create a more sustainable future for local communities and workers. The Premier’s Wild Salmon Advisory Council was convened last year, bringing together experts from around the province to develop a strategy for restoring and sustaining B.C. ’s salmon populations. Agriculture is an important part of B.C. ’s economy. Gov- ernment is working to protect farmland and develop new markets for B.C. agricultural products.

To maximize the benefits of B.C. ’s rich agricultural land, your government will launch a food security task force to consider how B.C. can harness new technologies and innovation to produce more food, jobs and prosperity while reducing waste. British Columbia has one of the largest park systems in the world. Last year government purchased ecologically sensitive land on Vancouver Island, the Sunshine Coast, in the Okanagan and in the Kootenays.

This year government will designate these lands as class A parks, to make sure everyone can enjoy these beautiful natural spaces for years to come. [2:40 p.m.] The tourism sector supports over 133,000 jobs in British Columbia. Government is working to attract visitors from around the world, while supporting the arts, sport and cul- tural projects. Government will modernize the Royal B.C. Museum, to protect its historic holdings and provide better access to its collections. Government will also establish a new Chinese-Canadian museum, to honour the com- munity’s significant contributions to our province.

Y our government recognizes the incredible potential for B.C. to be a global hub of connectivity and innovation. Bor- ders that are open to trade and immigration also create opportunities for people. B.C. is partnering with the state of Washington to grow the region’s innovation and tech sector, fight climate change, promote trade and improve transport- ation connectivity. Y our government is exploring the feasib- ility of an ultra-high-speed corridor, connecting B.C., Wash- ington and Oregon, an initiative that holds great promise for the Lower Mainland.

Connectivity opens doors to new opportunities for every person in B.C. Our government is helping connect people in rural or remote communities through high-speed Internet. People in 190 rural and remote communities, including 69 Tuesday, February 12, 2019 British Columbia Debates 6969

Indigenous communities, will soon have more bandwidth to run their businesses, access public services and connect to the world. When we support connectivity and growth in tech and innovation, we are encouraging growth in every part of the economy. Infrastructure and mobility are critical to our economy and the livability of our communities. Rather than pick win- ners and losers or divide people, this government is ready to collaborate and support local governments to get people and goods moving.

Government is investing in infrastruc- ture projects throughout B.C., including schools, roads and transit improvements, which will create tens of thousands of jobs for people. To create good-paying jobs, better training and appren- ticeships and more trades opportunities for Indigenous peoples, women and youth around the province, this govern- ment established community benefit agreements for major infrastructure projects. These agreements make sure that public investments create public benefits and strengthen loc- al economies.

This year ride-hailing will enter the market, giving pas- sengers options and flexibility while making sure people are safe. From the Lower Mainland to southern Vancouver Island, the Fraser Valley and our coast, the Interior, Okanagan, Kootenays and the north, your government will work with local partners to deliver transportation and mobility options that work for people. The strength of this Legislature does not come from stone, slate, marble or granite. It comes from a foundation of public trust. That trust was recently shaken.

This government val- ues transparency and takes very seriously its responsibility to maintain the integrity of our public institutions. Y our gov- ernment will work with this assembly to implement reforms that restore trust in this core institution so that our demo- cracy is stronger going forward. This government believes in British Columbians. Their determined spirit, innovative potential and ingenuity fuels this government’s resolve to build a better B.C., where we rise to the challenges of today to secure the opportunities of tomorrow.

Government is making different choices to make life better so that B.C. ’s bright future and unlimited potential is shared with everyone. The road ahead will not be easy. We will get there with open dialogue, open hearts and an understanding that mak- ing life better can only happen when all of us make progress together. As you embark on this new legislative session, let every member of this House be inspired by the hope and optim- ism of British Columbians, whose lives are getting better every day.

Finally, as the Queen’s representative and on behalf of all British Columbians, I want to express my personal gratit- ude to all of you for the important work you do together and for the many, many sacrifices you make for the privilege of serving us. We are fortunate, indeed, to have the benefit of such a fine group of legislators, all of whom care deeply about our province and our people. HÍSW̱ ḴE SIÁM. Thank you so much. Her Honour the Lieutenant-Governor retired from the chamber. [2:45 p.m.] [Mr. Speaker in the chair.] Mr. Speaker:Hon.

Members, in order to prevent mis- takes, I’ve obtained a copy of the speech from Her Honour the Lieutenant-Governor. Introduction and First Reading of Bills BILL 1 —

AN ACT TO ENSURE THE SUPREMACY OF PARLIAMENT Hon. D. Eby presented a bill intituled

An Act to Ensure the Supremacy of Parliament. Hon. D. Eby:I move that Bill 1, intituled

An Act to Ensure the Supremacy of Parliament, be introduced and read a first time now. The introduction of this bill prior to consideration of the throne speech expresses the established right of parliament, through its elected members, to deliberate independently of the Sovereign. As such, it’s an important part of our parlia- mentary democratic process. It’s a right that was first asser- ted by the Parliament of Westminster in the year 1603, dur- ing the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. Mr. Speaker:The question is introduction and first read- ing of Bill 1, intituled

An Act to Ensure the Supremacy of Parliament. Motion approved. Hon. D. Eby: I move that the bill be placed on orders of the day for second reading at the next sitting of the House after today. Bill 1,

An Act to Ensure the Supremacy of Parliament, 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. Motions APPOINTMENT OF DEPUTY SPEAKER Hon. M. Farnworth:I move, seconded by the member for Langley: [ThatRaj Chouhan, Member for Burnaby-Edmonds Electoral Dis- 6970 British Columbia Debates Tuesday, February 12, 2019

trict, be appointed Deputy Speaker for this session of the Legislative Assembly.] Motion approved. APPOINTMENT OF ASSISTANT DEPUTY SPEAKER M. Polak: I move, seconded by the member for Port Coquitlam electoral district: [ThatJoan Isaacs, Member for Coquitlam–Burke Mountain Electoral District, be appointed Assistant Deputy Speaker for this session of the Legislative Assembly.] Motion approved. APPOINTMENT OF DEPUTY CHAIR, COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE Hon. M.

Farnworth:I move, seconded by the member for Langley electoral district: [ThatSpencer Chandra Herbert, Member for Vancouver–West End Electoral District, be appointed Deputy Chair of the Committee of the Whole for this session of the Legislative Assembly.] Motion approved. PRINTING OF VOTES AND PROCEEDINGS Hon. D. Eby:I move: [That theVotes and Proceedings of this House be printed, being first perused by the Speaker, and that he do appoint the printing thereof, and that no person but such as he shall appoint do presume to print the same.] Motion approved. [2:50 p.m.] APPOINTMENT OF SELECT STANDING COMMITTEES Hon.

J. Horgan:I move: [That the Select Standing Committees of this House for the present session, be appointed for the following purposes: 1. Aboriginal Affairs; 2. Education; 3. Finance and Government Services; 4. Health; 5. Public Accounts; 6. Parliamentary Reform, Ethical Conduct, Standing Orders and Private Bills; 7. Crown Corporations; 8. Children and Y outh; 9.

Agriculture, Fish and Food; which said Committees shall severally be empowered to examine and inquire into all such matters and things as shall be referred to them by this House, and to report from time to time their observations and opinions thereon, with power to send for persons, papers, and records, and that a Special Committee be appointed to prepare and report with all convenient speed lists of members to compose the above Select Standing Committees of this House under Standing Or- der 68 (1), the Committee to be composed of the Hon.M.

Farn- worth (Convener),Garry Begg, Janet Routledge, Jagrup Brar, Ronna- Rae Leonard, Mary Polak, Eric Foster, Jackie Tegart, Greg KylloandSo- nia Furstenau.] Motion approved. Hon. M. Farnworth moved adjournment of the House. Motion approved. Mr. Speaker:This House stands adjourned until 1:30 tomorrow afternoon. The House adjourned at 2:51 p.m. Tuesday, February 12, 2019 British Columbia Debates 6971

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Chamber debates are broadcast on television. www.leg.bc.ca Published by British Columbia Hansard Services under the authority of the Speaker.

Document details

Collection	British Columbia — Debates (Hansard)
Citation	20190212pm-Hansard-n196
Type	hansard
Volume / chapter	20190212pm Hansard n196
Language	en
Format	pdf
Source	PROVINCIAL
Identifier	8756896baf06891510edac81d4e039921c2ba557

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