Fourth Session, 42nd Parliament

(2023) OFFICIAL REPORT

OF DEBATES

(HANSARD)

Monday, April 24, 2023

Morning Sitting

Issue No. 310

ISSN 1499-2175

The HTML transcript is provided for informational purposes only.

The PDF transcript remains the official digital version.

CONTENTS

Orders of the Day

Private Members’ Statements

Working for workers

J. Routledge

G. Kyllo

Public consumption of illicit drugs

T. Wat

D. Routley

Invest in our planet

A. Singh

R. Merrifield

Vandalism and small businesses

B. Banman

M. Elmore

Private Members’ Motions

Motion 42 — Tourism industry

B. Anderson

L. Doerkson

M. Babchuk

T. Wat

J. Rice

T. Shypitka

R. Russell

J. Sturdy

B. D’Eith

B. Stewart

S. Chant

MONDAY, APRIL 24, 2023

The House met at 10:03 a.m.

[Mr. Speaker in the chair.]

Routine Business

Prayers and reflections: R. Russell.

Orders of the Day

Private Members’ Statements

WORKING FOR WORKERS

J. Routledge: Four days from now is April 28, the National Day of Mourning, when

we commemorate those who have lost their lives, suffered injury or

illness on the job or have experienced work-related tragedy. It also

serves to remind us of our commitment to improve workplace

safety.

Seven days from now is May 1, the day most countries around the

world celebrate as International Workers Day. So today, I rise to pay

tribute to working people who, without their brain and muscle, not a

single wheel would turn. “Who plowed the prairies, built the cities

where they trade, dug the mines and built the workshops — endless miles

of railroad laid.”

Many of us will recognize those words as lyrics from “Solidarity

Forever,” written more than 100 years ago at a time when the workforce

was predominantly male.

[10:05 a.m.]

Today I also make a point of paying tribute to those in

female-dominated occupations, such as health care, home care, child care

and administration. I also pay tribute to those who fed, clothed and

sheltered their families and communities for thousands of years before

employment came to be defined as a transaction.

[S. Chandra Herbert in the chair.]

I also want to remind us that at least two of B.C.’s defining

industries, fishing and forestry, which generated great fortunes for the

owners and family-supporting livings for generations of the many, were

grounded in the knowledge and widespread participation of Indigenous

workers.

Honouring the contributions of working people also means accepting

that we may need to relearn our history. It may mean rethinking who is

at the centre of our history. For example, I learned in school that the

railway was built by William Van Horne. Later, I came to understand that

he didn’t build it; he financed it. It was actually built by 9,000

workers, 6,500 of whom were Chinese Canadians who were paid less yet

built the most dangerous segments.

Our constituents elected us to do one thing: shape a secure future

that is fair and just, one in which everyone can thrive, or, as the

writers of Solidarity Forever put it: “Build a new world from

the ashes of the old.”

Sometimes that means sifting through those ashes to identify past

injustices and assuring ourselves that we don’t perpetuate them. For

example, we know we have a pay equity problem. We know that women in

B.C. still tend to be paid 17 percent less than men. But do we know

why?

It is historically relevant that women tend to work in different

occupations than men. Over the course of my lifetime, I have heard lots

of excuses for that fact, like: “Women are nurses, teachers and child

care workers be­cause that’s what they do at home. It’s their

calling.” Well, here’s an explanation that makes more sense.

Working-class women have always contributed to the family income

in the industrial economy. In the early days, they might have grown food

and sold it in the markets. Many took in boarders when young single men

began migrating to the cities to work in factories. In today’s parlance,

we might even have called them independent contractors.

Like working-class men, they have always answered the call of the

market. So when the service sector began ex­panding rapidly in the

1920s, it was women who were available to fill these new jobs, such as

telephone operators, secretaries, bank tellers and sales

clerks.

For generations, they continued to be seen, stereotypically, as

women’s jobs. Until recently, there were always more women who worked

outside standard employment relationships — i.e., in the home — so the

supply of workers to fill so-called women’s jobs was always greater than

the demand.

That women are a source of cheap labour is a structural problem

that requires structural change. Central to achieving pay equity is the

elimination of occupational segregation. I applaud the unions and

employers who are implementing plans to welcome women into the

higher-paid jobs previously reserved for men.

If occupations could have been gendered right under our noses for

so long, can we ask ourselves who else has been relegated to the reserve

army of labour? Are there jobs that continue to be racialized? Do they

experience a wage gap? We know intuitively that the answer is yes. Our

government’s commitment to desegregate data will help us gather the

evidence and proactively close the gap.

There are other steps we are taking to ensure working people are

treated fairly. We’ve made significant improvements to workers

compensation so workers and their families get help faster.

This includes ensuring employers accommodate and rehire injured

workers when they are ready to return to work, and are required to do so

by WorkSafeBC, ensuring workers are paid interest on delayed payments,

enhancing WorkSafe’s ability to investigate workplace incidents that

result in a worker’s fatality or serious injury, instituting an

independent fair practices commissioner to investigate allegations of

unfair treatment by WorkSafe, expanding access to health professionals,

indexing benefits to the consumer price index, explicit provisions

against claims suppression by employers, increased compensation for

non-traumatic hearing loss and the presumption that certain physical and

mental illnesses are job-related so that workers don’t have to go

through the added trauma of proving it was job-related.

We’ve hired more staff at employment standards branch to

investigate complaints, and the backlog is going down.

[10:10 a.m.]

The Employment Standards Act now deems certain jobs to be too

dangerous for children. Single-step certification makes it easier for

workers to join unions, and as a result, the number of workers joining

unions has increased significantly. New licensing requirements for

asbestos abatement will protect workers from asbestos

poisoning.

We know workers and their families are struggling right now.

That’s why we eliminated MSP premiums and re­duced ICBC rates.

Minimum wage will go up to $16.75 an hour, a 6.9 percent increase, to

keep up with global inflation. We reduced child care fees, and many

families are already benefiting from our $10-a-day child care plan.

We’ve introduced a renter’s tax credit, a B.C. affordability credit and

the climate action tax credit, and now every worker is entitled to five

days of paid sick leave.

With that, I will take my seat for now and listen to the response

from the member opposite.

G. Kyllo: Thank you to the member opposite for raising this very important

topic.

Ensuring British Columbia is a great place to do business is

vitally important, and this is what creates jobs and keeps people

working and making many important contributions to our economy. As the

member has indicated, this coming Friday is actually the National Day of

Mourning. As well, we have the upcoming month of International Workers

Day.

Our workers are incredibly important. It’s also incredibly

important that workers be respected in this province, but there’s a fine

balance to be made, with protecting workers and workers’ rights and also

providing the right economic climate so that businesses have the

opportunity to continue to make those very important investments and to

provide the important employment that many workers in B.C.

require.

Unfortunately, I’m hearing from far too many small business owners

that the challenges they are facing are increasing, not decreasing,

making it harder and harder to do business in our province. Rising costs

are becoming more difficult to contend with, with businesses facing a

significant number of additional tax increases that reduce and erode the

competitiveness of businesses here in B.C.

We do need to keep workers at the centre and in the focus. With

respect to workers compensation claims, I was really sad to learn, just

a few weeks ago, that the number of mental disorder claims in this

province has gone up 500 percent in the last five years alone, growing

from $37 million to $197 million. The costs keep rising. We have to ask

ourselves: why is it that we see the mental disorder claims rising so

quickly?

A lot of that is employer-driven, and the employer, in the case of

mental disorder claims, is largely in the acute care–health care sector.

We see nurses sidelined, unable to actually go to work on account of

vaccination status — upwards of 4,000 nurses, which is only adding to

the shortage of workers, requiring nurses to work double shifts. It’s a

toxic work environment.

That is an area where government actually holds the pen and has

the opportunity to ensure there’s adequate staffing levels so that we do

not see our health care workers continue to struggle with the shortage

of available supports.

Additionally, the member references the employment standards

branch. Now, for those that are listening at home, the employment

standards branch is the avenue where private sector workers,

non-unionized employees, have the opportunity to seek justice should

they have a challenge or a complaint with an employer. The backlog back

in 2017 was two months. That backlog, under the current government, has

now grown to 12 to 18 months.

Just imagine for a moment a worker that has a challenge, that

maybe has not been paid severance pay or that maybe is not being paid

overtime. They reach out to the employment standards branch — looking

for justice, looking for that opportunity to have their claim actually

resolved — to be told that it’ll be 12 to 18 months before somebody is

actively working on their file.

[10:15 a.m.]

Under this current government, the employment standards branch’s

own policy established and sets out the requirement for 85 percent of

claims to be resolved within six months. You know what the performance

level was of this government last year? Only 20 percent of claims were

actually resolved within the government’s own policy objective of having

85 percent of claims adjudicated and resolved within six

months.

There are many concerns about keeping workers at the centre of our

focus. The Cowichan Hospital, currently under construction up in Duncan,

B.C., is where Jon Coleman, with the Cowichan Tribes, is still

sidelined, still unable to actually go to work within his own

traditional territory because of policy decisions of this current

government.

We see the community benefits agreements driving up costs

significantly. In my own riding of Shuswap, the Salmon Arm west highway

construction project was initially established for 6.1 kilometres. The

project is $20 million over budget. Guess what. Only 3.3 kilometres were

built — half the project for $20 million more.

We do need to keep workers at the centre and in the focus of all

efforts of government. At the same time, it’s also important to make

sure policies actually align with what I think all British Columbians

would actually call for.

J. Routledge: Thank you to the member opposite for providing his perspective on

helping workers.

We are experiencing a serious labour shortage right now, and it is

global in nature. In B.C. alone, we have more vacancies than there are

unemployed workers to fill them. We predict that there will be more than

one million job openings over the next ten years and that 80 percent of

those new jobs will require post-secondary education.

It is crucial we act on this knowledge before it becomes a crisis.

That is exactly what we’re doing. We have already put plans in place to

train the workforce of the future and to attract already trained workers

to our province. We’ve added more training seats across the province in

skilled professions like nurses, veterinarians, early childhood

educators, in technology and in skilled trades. We’re making it easier

for internationally trained professionals to work here.

Our Future Ready plan invests $480 million, over the next three

years, to break down barriers to training. We are funding a new

internship program. We are expanding training opportunities for those

who face multiple barriers, and we are connecting directly, through a

survey, with people who hold foreign credentials, to get a more precise

picture of the challenges they face in accessing good jobs in their

field.

There is another workforce that we depend on as well. It deserves

our support just as much. I’m talking about the precarious workforce,

workers who don’t have standard jobs with predictable hours, wages,

benefits and, in many cases, the right to join a union.

A recently publicized study by the Canadian Centre for Policy

Alternatives estimates that more than half of the British Columbia

workforce is employed in precarious jobs like ride-hail, food delivery

drivers and home care workers. The study also shows us that these

marginalized workers are predominantly new immigrants, Indigenous and

women.

Our workforce is polarized. We need to address that trend before

structural inequality and its consequences become entrenched. New and

more jobs are in our future, but will they be good jobs? It is our job

to make sure the answer is yes.

PUBLIC CONSUMPTION OF ILLICIT DRUGS

T. Wat: I’m pleased to rise and deliver a statement on something causing

deep concern: the open consumption of illicit drugs in our public

places.

Members of this House have heard from numerous communities across

British Columbia that share concerns about this issue. Families are

forced to worry about their children stumbling upon drug paraphernalia

in our parks and playgrounds. At the same time, hazardous items, such as

discarded needles, are a common sight in our neighbourhoods, posing a

danger to both residents and visitors alike.

[10:20 a.m.]

I know I’m not alone in being critical of the government’s

haphazard handling of decriminalization in our province. The decision to

decriminalize hard drugs, with­out proper guardrails, has exposed

our communities to the dangers of uncontrolled consumption in public

areas. While simple activities like having a beer in a public park or

using a plastic straw are tightly regulated, the government’s

decriminalization policy has left the public consumption of illegal

drugs like crystal meth, crack cocaine and fentanyl

unchecked.

Seeing no accountability from this government, municipalities

across British Columbia are being forced to come up with solutions on

their own, with the introduction of bylaws to mitigate the harms of open

drug use. However, they face resistance from the provincial government

and legal challenges from organizations such as Pivot Legal Society, the

Premier’s former employer. Penticton, Kelowna, New Westminster, Kamloops

and Campbell River are just some of the communities trying to put at

least some controls in place. Unfortunately, these efforts are

insufficient without the provincial government’s support.

Under this government, open drug use can go un­checked in

the same parks where parents are watching their kids play. Last week, we

heard of parents like Andrea Miller, whose daughter Everleigh found a

package of fentanyl in her elementary school playground in Nanaimo. No

parent should have to live in fear for their child’s life because they

might stumble across drugs, and dangerous drugs, like fentanyl, on their

playgrounds.

This House’s Health Committee made the recommendation that if the

government is going to pursue decriminalization, they have to make sure

that protections are in place. Most members of this House understood the

purpose and need for decriminalization, because we were told that

safeguards would be in place.

Sadly, however, this government has not followed through on the

requirements that should have been met prior to implementing

decriminalization. This includes improving access to health services,

meeting specific regions’ and communities’ unique needs, educating the

public and providing training and resources to front-line police

officers. The lack of preparation has and will continue to result in

disastrous consequences for our communities.

After seven years of a public health emergency, the province

continues to set one grim record after another. In 2022, our province

recorded the highest number of overdose deaths ever recorded. March of

this year was the highest month on record for overdose deaths. We have

seen the highest number of overdose calls in a single day and the

highest 30-day average of overdose calls ever recorded. These are

unacceptable outcomes that we must address with the same urgency that we

approached the COVID-19 pandemic.

We need a comprehensive plan to address the open consumption of

illicit drugs in our public spaces. We must protect families and

children. We need to provide support to municipalities and front-line

workers to mitigate the harms of uncontrolled consumption. We need to

meet the unique needs of our communities, including those in rural and

remote areas.

We must educate the public about the dangers of open drug use and

provide access to health services for those who desire treatment or

other support.

It is time for the government to listen to British Columbians and

stop us from going down this path of uncontrolled consumption of illegal

drugs in our public spaces.

D. Routley: Thank you to the member for bringing up this very important

subject, important to all of us because toxic drugs are the leading

cause of death in all of our communities.

Our government is taking bold and courageous actions to address

this crisis head-on and save lives. Unfortunately, the opposition

appears to want to stand in the way and create false divisions instead

of helping.

Deputy Speaker: Member, let’s just keep this non-partisan. Thank you.

D. Routley: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Let’s make something perfectly clear. Decriminalization does not

change the ability of local governments to pass or amend

bylaws.

[10:25 a.m.]

All they must do, legally, is to consult their local medical

health officer when they do, because this is a public health emergency.

I would hope they would understand this.

Decriminalization is a critical step in the government of B.C.’s

fight against the toxic drug crisis. B.C. decriminalized people who use

drugs to fight the shame and stigma around addictions. Breaking down

these barriers will help create new pathways to life-saving services and

care, so more people will feel comfortable reaching out for those

life-saving supports.

The province is committed to implementing decriminalization in a

way that recognizes community needs and unique settings. Under

decriminalization, adults aged 18 years and older who possess a

cumulative total of less than 2.5 grams of certain illegal drugs for

personal use will not be arrested, charged or have their drugs

confiscated.

To be clear, decriminalization is about possession, not use.

Public intoxication, whether by drugs or alcohol, re­mains

illegal. Local governments have a range of regulatory tools that can

address issues related to substance use and public disorder.

However, implementing blanket bylaws broadly that prohibit public

consumption of illicit drugs and fining individuals who do so does not

address the underlying causes related to addiction and may undermine the

goals of decriminalization. Such enforcement activities may encourage

individuals to use drugs alone or out of view, thereby increasing the

risk of death due to the toxic drug supply.

Municipalities can use regulatory tools to tailor their response

to local needs while balancing the goals of public health and public

safety when it comes to the issue of public consumption of legal and

illegal substances.

The Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions continues to work

closely with public health, police, local governments and other partners

to update policies and practice guidelines related to substance use

where necessary to mitigate any outstanding issues that

arise.

Former Premier John Horgan speculated, as he tasked the Select

Standing Committee on Health with addressing the toxic drug crisis and

the recommendations of the chief coroner, as to whether the spirit of

cooperation that was proclaimed by the opposition when they asked for

that committee to be tasked would survive that process. I really thought

it had. I thought we signed on with one voice to a report that outlined

exactly what is happening.

All of the supports, the holistic system that’s being built to

support people and the access to these supports being increased,

treatment beds being increased…. But the crisis is immediate, and the

immediate response was decriminalization and safer supply. Responsible

parties in this province recognize that this is a nuanced and complex

problem and their role in it. One example is the Construction

Association, who use their tailgate toolbox program to help break down

the barriers of stigma.

I’ve worked in those industries — in logging, in sawmills and in

construction — and drug use was common, going back 25, 30 years. Yes,

it’s a toxic and terrible crisis now, but it’s a problem that has to be

brought out into the sunshine to be solved. That requires us in this

House to speak with one voice in support of our constituents, because

there should be no scapegoating.

Every member in this House, through that committee, signed on to

support this effort. We must put down the divisions of partisanship and

recognize that the number one reason we must address this crisis —

without stigma, without shame — is that there is barely one of us in

this province who is so separated from it that we can’t apply the face

of a person who we knew or loved to this crisis. Let’s speak with one

voice.

T. Wat: I appreciate the member of the government for their response.

However, that is cold comfort for mothers like Andrea, whose daughter

found a pack of fentanyl in her school playground.

[10:30 a.m.]

Deputy Speaker: It’s not partisan time, Member.

T. Wat: Cities like New Westminster and Kelowna say there need to be

provincial rules to avoid a patchwork of inconsistent responses to

decriminalization, which creates confusion for the public and challenges

front-line enforcement. It should be the government’s responsibility to

regulate the public consumption of illicit drugs in our public spaces —

including parks, playgrounds and beaches — considering the harmful

consequences of unsafe decriminalization, which we are seeing

now.

I never thought British Columbia would become a place where I am

worried about my grandchildren finding needles used to consume illicit

drugs in an area designated for children and families, such as a

playground. Unfortunately, this has become the harsh reality.

After listening to stories from parents in Vancouver, in Salmon

Arm, in Nanaimo and elsewhere, I urge the government to listen to

concerned parents watching out for their young children. I recommend

that the Premier listen to municipalities and municipal governments who

know their communities better than we do. Let’s give them control of

their lives and the ability to protect the public from illicit drug use

in public spaces.

INVEST IN OUR PLANET

A. Singh: “Then, though his sight was now very dim, he looked again at the

young men. ‘They will commit me to the earth,’ he thought. ‘Yet I also

commit them to the earth. There is nothing else by which men live. Men

go and come, but earth abides.’” George Stewart.

Every year on April 22, Earth Day marks the anni­versary of

the birth of the modern environmental movement in 1970. Today Earth Day

is widely recognized as the largest secular observance in the world,

marked by more than one billion people every year as a day of action to

change human behaviour and create global, national and local policy

changes.

Today the fight to protect our environment continues with

increasing urgency as the ravages of climate change become more and more

apparent every day. We here in British Columbia have come face to face

with that reality many times over the last few years.

As the awareness of our climate crisis grows, so does the need for

mobilization. We can see this mobilization across the globe

today.

Sustainability is the path to prosperity for humanity and

businesses alike. Companies that have developed strong environmental

social governance standards are seeing better profitability, stronger

financial performance and happier employees. There is no longer a choice

between going green and long-term profits. There is no balancing the

economy and the environment. They go hand in hand. Economies can prosper

as the environment does.

It’s crucial for all of us to act now. If we don’t, climate change

will cause even more catastrophic damage, not only to our planet but

also to our economy. It’s negatively impacting every single person on

this planet. We in government recognize that.

Earth Day is a chance to reaffirm our commitment to climate

action, our commitment to protection of our natural spaces and to

continue to work towards a better future for everyone in British

Columbia. We are grateful for the opportunity to join a global community

for a common cause. This year’s theme is “Invest in our

planet.”

As British Columbians, we are fortunate to be surrounded by a

diverse landscape and diverse ecosystems that shape our province and

sustain us. We’re uniquely tied to the ground, to the earth.

[10:35 a.m.]

Like countless other places around the world, British Columbia is

experiencing the effects of a changing climate. Extreme weather events

like drought, record wildfires, flooding and intense heat waves

highlight the need for immediate actions to reduce greenhouse gas

emissions. That’s why our government continues to prioritize investing

in climate action, to ensure that everyone in B.C. has access to healthy

communities and to ensure that everyone can have a safe and healthy

future.

We’re lowering emissions through our CleanBC Road­map to

2030, which puts us on a path to a cleaner, more resilient economy that

works for all of us. As one of the most progressive climate action plans

in North America, this plan will lead us to a future where new buildings

and vehicles produce zero emissions, where we use less energy and create

less waste, where communities and businesses are ready for a changing

climate and where industries are the cleanest in the world.

I’m going to read a poem by Sophia Valdez.

The land is in a constant state of birth,

Giving life to

all who live on earth.

Our carelessness and fears

Have taken a

toll over the years.

Her land is parched and scorched

As man

continues to light the torch.

We continue a want of speed and

ease,

All while our pesticides kill off our bees.

It’s time to

wake up and see Mother Earth’s pain.

Humanity’s selfishness is

becoming insane.

Soon her cries will turn to gloom,

And man

will cause its own doom.

R. Merrifield: Thank you to the member opposite for bringing forward this

important topic for discussion in the House today. Addressing climate

change and being good stewards of our planet and its natural environment

are certainly priorities for all official parties in this Legislature,

and I’m glad to have the opportunity to respond to the member’s

comments. I am confident that although we may have different ideas of

the path we need to get there, we all want a healthy planet and a

healthy future for our children and their children.

As the member rightly pointed out, this past Saturday was Earth

Day, with the theme “Invest in our planet.” I appreciate this framing,

as it underlines the importance of thinking about our planet not just as

something that we can extract value from but also as something that we

can add value to if we care for it responsibly and remember that our

actions have a profound impact on the world around us. Just as we

prioritize investments in what we value, the theme this year is a call

to prioritize our planet now and see the long-term view of these

environmentally focused deposits into the future of our

world.

Sometimes it’s hard to maintain hope. It feels like we’ve already

lost the battle, and the extremism and the futility of even trying

simply overwhelms. But we need to do something. The devastating

atmospheric rivers and floods of the past few years, the worsening

forest fires we continue to witness across our province all point to a

growing problem, and one we must work together to address.

Rhetoric is meaningless. Action and results are all that matters.

Those of us in positions to impact policy, to create change, must take

real action. It’s going to take much more than words, promises and

announcements to solve climate change and create more resilient

communities. We need a pragmatic and innovative approach that gives

solutions that make sense in the unique context across our province. We

need to spend and invest on what really makes a difference and what will

give us the results that we need and tackle this issue

holistically.

Yes, we need to be thinking about more safe, efficient and

accessible transit for the urban areas, but that doesn’t do those in the

North much good in January, on a bike with a bike route. How about a

zero-waste district energy system for the rural and remote communities?

We need to seek better emissions-lowering measures in each area and

locale, taking into account the unique carbon footprint of every single

area, and contextualize our approach.

Investing in our planet also means investing in what’s working in

innovation and green energy solutions — projects like Site C which, when

finished, will have the capacity to provide additional reliable clean

energy for our province.

[10:40 a.m.]

These clean energy projects are key to transitioning our economy

and investing in a greener future for our planet. But we need so many

more projects like this — so, so many more — to support cleaner resource

extraction and lower emissions for the general public, although,

hopefully, future projects will be on time and on budget.

Measures like a revenue-neutral carbon tax or expanding LNG help

to cut down on global greenhouse gas emissions, all while growing our

economy. With a growing economy, we can invest more in alternative

energy solutions and other strategies to address climate change that

will help to secure the health of our planet for the long

term.

Taking care of the planet is our collective responsibility. We

will all be negatively impacted by the continued progression of climate

change, especially if we don’t start taking more serious action to

address it, and we will all benefit from the decision-makers taking real

steps to invest in our planet and make smart decisions for our

future.

My hope is that together, we can make our planet a priority and

work to secure a bright future for generations to come, truly investing

in our planet.

A. Singh:

“From earth to sky fell a ceaseless rain of dust and garbage that

fouled the home of the gods and poisoned their food.

“The gods tolerated that filthy discharge for an eternity.

“Then their patience ran out. They sent a bolt of lightning, which

split the earth in two. Through the crack, they hurled the sun, the moon

and the stars on high, and by that route, they too climbed up. Way up

there, far from us, safe from us, the gods founded their new

kingdom.

“Ever since, we are the ones underneath.”

Eduardo Galeano.

We know reducing emissions and pollution is only part of the work

we must do together. We need to conserve and care for our environment to

secure a future for the biodiversity of our province. To achieve this,

we are working with Indigenous peoples and other partners to meet our

commitment to protect 30 percent of our land by 2030, as well as

restoring our watersheds to safeguard fish and wildlife

habitat.

We’re making it more affordable for people to afford or to switch

to electric vehicles and to cleaner ways to heat and cool their homes.

We’re supporting communities with infrastructure that reduces fossil

fuel reliance and adapts to a changing climate, and we’re making the

environmental choice easier for everyone by investing in public transit

and active transportation infrastructure, providing safe, reliable and

clean travel options.

We’re also committed to reducing and preventing waste to keep food

and yard waste out of our landfills. We have invested in new or expanded

composting facilities and organics collection programs. We’re expanding

a recycling program and investing in projects that transform used

plastics into new products. Further, we’ve supported the removal of

debris from nearly 4,000 kilometres of B.C. shoreline, collecting over

1,000 tonnes of plastic debris from the waters.

Climate change and biodiversity loss affect us all. Earth Day is

an opportunity for each of us to dedicate our time and energy to making

B.C. and the planet we call home a cleaner, more sustainable place,

where future generations can thrive and benefit from the investments in

the climate action that we make today.

VANDALISM AND SMALL BUSINESSES

B. Banman: I rose and spoke in this chamber a few weeks ago about how staff

at local businesses in my riding of Abbotsford South are scared to go to

work because they face thefts, threats, fear of attacks with weapons. I

spoke about a local shop owner that has to deal with constant theft,

smashed windows, fires and the cleaning of human feces, urine and

needles. Let me remind members of this House that stories like this are

not unique to Abbotsford. We are hearing about it from every corner in

B.C.

Continuing with the same attitude towards crime, the so-called

catch-and-release system has led to an unprecedented drop in public

safety, the levels provincewide leaving communities across British

Columbia there in fear, and small businesses are suffering. A jewelry

store in Victoria was robbed in broad daylight by a hammer-wielding

intruder. A shooter — a shooter — in New West shot at a group of people

in the middle of a downtown core. And I can keep going.

[10:45 a.m.]

What has happened to our province? These are ex­amples from

just the last week alone. People’s safety is clearly at risk.

Unfortunately, the government risks eroding people’s trust in its

ability to protect law-abiding British Columbians. The backbones of our

communities, small businesses, are caught in the middle of this mayhem.

Small businesses have been paying the price for the lack of public

safety as they deal with the impacts of crime and vandalism.

The Business Improvement Areas of British Columbia surveyed 500

small businesses from across the province to find out how long they can

continue to operate under these conditions. Almost half — a staggering

48 percent — indicated that they would be forced to shut down sometime

within the next couple of years at this rate. This Legislature and all

the members in this House should not be proud of this damning statistic.

Small businesses drive local revenue, provide good jobs for community

members and contribute significantly to our provincial

economy.

In the city of Vancouver alone, the Vancouver Economic Commission

estimates that about 60,000 jobs are generated by businesses with a

storefront, yet areas like Hastings Crossing and neighborhoods like

Chinatown face some of the highest storefront vacancy rates, at a

staggering 28 percent and 16.8 percent respectively. One in ten

storefronts in Vancouver’s high streets are vacant. Small businesses can

barely keep up with the rising costs due to inflationary measures yet

are now forced to pay the price for a system that has put the rights of

repeat violent offenders before law-abiding people and

businesses.

We need to do better to protect small businesses that keep our

communities thriving, which is why the official opposition has come out

in support of a provincewide grant program, as proposed by the Business

Improvement Areas of B.C., to help cover vandalism repairs and security

upgrades for small businesses: “Businesses require immediate relief, and

funding for anti-vandalism programs aimed at enhancing business security

and/or mitigating the impacts of crime is a needed next step,” says Teri

Smith, the president of BIABC.

At this rate, small businesses end up spending more time dealing

with vandalism, break-ins and thefts instead of focusing on growing

their businesses and supporting their staff. Staff are frightened to go

to work, because they don’t know if they will be the next victim. I am

heartbroken and tired of hearing from businesses in my community that

are struggling to get by.

Over a month long, an ongoing transit strike in the Fraser Valley

is stopping workers and customers from getting to where they need to go.

Increased business costs due to the inflation, interest rates and now

rampant crime are just making matters worse. This should be troubling to

the ears of government. It is our job to keep our people

safe.

The idea that hundreds and, potentially, thousands of businesses

could close their doors in the next two years is a major concern for our

economy, the health of our communities and the livelihoods and the

well-being of all British Columbians. Grants, such as the one proposed

by the official opposition, are critical…

Deputy Speaker: It’s private members’ time.

B. Banman: …to helping stop the damage that is being done, to give businesses

a fighting chance at survival. It is time for the government to end the

catch-and-release justice system, keep our communities safe…

Deputy Speaker: Member, it’s private members’ time. So if you’ll adjust your

remarks accordingly.

B. Banman: …and ensure that small businesses are safe, that small businesses

can thrive and that they’re not being forced to pay the price for our

inaction.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

M. Elmore: I’m pleased to rise and respond to the statement from the member

for Abbotsford South.

We know that these are challenging times for everyone — in

particular, including small businesses — not only in communities across

British Columbia but certainly throughout downtowns across North

America. They continue to face some of these challenging difficulties,

and particularly here in B.C. That’s why our government is taking steps

to address that.

[10:50 a.m.]

In terms of “Where do these problems and challenges come from, and

why do they arise,” it hasn’t just popped up suddenly. We know that

there’s a context. While my friend across the way talks about some of

these challenges, we should also not forget that cuts from previous

governments contributed to the challenges we’re seeing now — cuts to

social services, including housing, creating homelessness; health cuts

to mental health and addictions care; and poverty in British

Columbia.

I undertook initiatives when our government struck a commitment to

bring in a much-needed poverty reduction plan. We travelled across the

province, engaging small businesses, local chambers of commerce.

Everyone came together in terms of looking at how we need to invest in

people, invest in services.

Particularly during the pandemic, our government came together to

ensure that businesses got the supports they needed most, and this

continues today. Since the beginning of the pandemic, our province has

provided more than $525 million, over $1 billion in supports to help

nearly 30,000 businesses. We created new tools to support reductions in

municipal property taxes, making the food delivery fee cap permanent and

wholesale pricing for liquor, responding to the requests of small

businesses.

We’re making different choices. We’re investing in peo­ple

and helping small businesses retain and recruit workers, which we know

is critical.

Ensuring small businesses have the supports. Lowering costs, we’ve

provided the B.C. Hydro credit, an average of $500. Also ensuring that….

We hear from small businesses right across the province about the need

for workers, to attract and retain workers — responding to that.

Supporting, in terms of access to labour. And we’ve made record

investments in housing and health care so that that can support

businesses to find and retain staff.

In terms of looking at the issues and challenges that small

businesses face, the member raised concerns around public safety, and

our government is clearly in support of law enforcement to support them.

We know that they are committed professionals.

To ensure that our communities are safe, our government has taken

the lead in demanding that the federal government, which the member and

the opposition knows are responsible under the federal Criminal Code for

dealing with requirements of bail….

Nevertheless, our government has taken the lead to bring together

teams to address violent offenders in our communities. We have taken the

lead to press the federal government to make changes to ensure that

violent offenders are not released into the public. We have taken the

lead in terms of investments in our local law enforcement to support

them to do their job. Our commitment is to continue to do

that.

We are putting in place a provincial plan to deal with addictions

recovery and supporting folks who need those supports. We’re investing

in child care to ensure that workers and businesses have that support so

that they can be employed in their communities as well as investments,

unprecedented, in terms of supporting public services, housing and,

really, the context to support small businesses. These are what we’ve

heard from businesses, what they require.

We will continue…. Our Premier and also the Minister of Jobs,

Economic Development and Innovation will continue to meet with small

businesses, to respond to their needs, to hear what works best. Our

government is here to support small businesses, to support communities,

to ensure that workers have good jobs and are safe. That is our

commitment going forward.

B. Banman: I want to thank the member opposite for her comments. I’m glad

that we can agree that small businesses are the backbone of British

Columbia’s communities.

It’s critical that we acknowledge how they provide character, how

they provide vibrancy to our towns, our cities, while also supplying

jobs and contributing to our economy — something we need more than ever

in our post-pandemic world.

[10:55 a.m.]

I was glad to hear that the member opposite said that she thought

it was great to support businesses. I look forward to hearing this

government propose and follow the BIABC’s recommendation that they need

help for vandalism.

Under the current policies, sadly, which have led to increased

vandalism, theft, threat and assaults, and a system that has made

operating a business in B.C. costlier than ever before, it has made

operating a business so expensive, in fact, that almost half of small

businesses are likely to shut down within the next year.

Something has to be done. Employees should not have to go to work

and fear of being robbed. Business owners should not have to focus on

repairing broken windows instead of bringing more jobs to the community,

and customers should feel safe and comfortable walking down their

streets.

[J. Tegart in the chair.]

Well, this is how things should be. It’s not how things are. It’s

why we think it’s smart to get behind the BIABC’s proposal to introduce

a provincewide grant program that will help support the cost of needed

security upgrades and building repairs right now. It will give

businesses that are forced to deal with the consequence of policies that

have failed them and have failed to keep crime and disorder off our

streets…. It will give them a glimmer of hope. It will show them that

British Columbia wants to be behind them and support them in giving back

to their communities.

But this is just one step, and we need to do more to support the

backbone of our economy, which is small businesses in British Columbia.

We must be united and work together to create a business-friendly

environment that encourages innovation and that nurtures it, nurtures

entrepreneurship and investment. We need to listen to the concerns of

small business owners and take actions to address them.

Hon. J. Whiteside: I ask that the House consider proceeding with Motion 42,

standing in the name of the member for Nelson-Creston.

Deputy Speaker: Members, unanimous consent of the House is required to proceed to

Motion 42 without disturbing the priorities of the motions preceding it

on the order paper.

Leave granted.

Private Members’ Motions

MOTION 42 — TOURISM INDUSTRY

B. Anderson:

[Be it resolved that this House celebrates this week as Tourism Week

and recognizes the valuable economic and cultural contributions that the

tourism industry brings to B.C.]

Hon. Speaker, as you know, members in this House don’t always

agree, but I would be surprised if any MLA didn’t support this motion

today, as it is an opportunity to celebrate and showcase the incredible

tourism opportunities and businesses in their ridings and across

B.C.

I am honoured to be the Parliamentary Secretary for Tourism, and I

believe that B.C. is the most incredible place in the world to live and

visit. We offer breathtaking natural scenery, Indigenous tourism,

world-class culinary offerings and accommodations, experiences that

engage, educate and inspire, exceptional arts, culture and sport and, of

course, our people. British Columbians are welcoming, hospitable and

diverse.

Tourism is one of the most dynamic industries in B.C. A thriving

tourism industry is a pillar of the StrongerBC economic plan that

contributes to an inclusive, sustainable and innovative economy that

works for all people. It is a pathway for jobs, opportunity and

entrepreneurship, where healthy, inclusive societies are more

productive, competitive and innovative. The tourism industry has the

power to boost quality of life for people in every corner of our

province.

[11:00 a.m.]

Over the next three years, we will work with communities to

rebuild their visitor economies and raise the bar even higher, because

we know a well-managed, thriving tourism industry makes life better for

people. This means working with our partners to invest in arts, culture,

heritage, sport and multicultural experiences, infrastructure, events

and festivals, all of which make B.C. communities a great place to live

and visit.

When I attended the B.C. Tourism and Hospitality Conference and

awards gala in Prince George in March, I was honoured to meet

exceptional leaders and positive changemakers in B.C.’s tourism and

hospitality sector. I would like to thank the organizers and

congratulate all the 2023 B.C. Tourism and Hospitality award winners and

finalists.

As Parliamentary Secretary for Tourism, I have the incredible job

of working to support the tourism industry across the province. In B.C.,

we have so many incredible tourism operators and experiences, and I know

other members speaking to this motion will help me to highlight unique

tourism opportunities in their region.

I’m going to take the opportunity to shine some light on the

Kootenays, the best place to live and visit year round in British

Columbia. The Kootenays are a nature lover’s paradise, offering a wide

range of outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, mountain biking,

fishing and wildlife watching. Thanks to the incredible back country,

several cat-skiing operators offer nearly 100,000 acres of powder

terrain and up to six kilometres of vertical per day. Nelson has been

dubbed the cat-skiing capital of the world, and our beloved local hill,

Whitewater Ski Resort, is expanding to become a year-round adventure

tourism destination.

The Kootenays are also home to several stunning rec sites and

provincial parks, including Kokanee Provincial Park and Valhalla

Provincial Park. These parks offer breathtaking landscapes, serene lakes

and picturesque hiking trails that allow visitors to experience the

region’s wilderness and natural beauty up close.

The Creston Valley is the hub of agritourism in the Kootenays, and

whether it’s visiting Kootenay Meadows to watch the cows prance around

the fields during their spring turnout, sipping a glass of wine at

Baillie-Grohman, or wandering around the farmers market, the Creston

Valley has memorable and delicious agritourism experiences.

The Kootenays has been the hub of cannabis cultivation and culture

for decades. This weekend at the Cannabis Summit in Kelowna, there was a

great panel discussion about the incredible economic diversification

opportunities cannabis tourism will have in the future, and I am looking

forward to helping support this industry expand and thrive.

Finally, the Kootenays are home to several vibrant communities

that offer a wide range of cultural and culinary experiences. There are

incredible cultural events and festivals and activities across the

Kootenays, including in Nelson, which was named the best small arts town

in Canada.

The Kootenays offers incredible tourism experiences that are sure

to leave a lasting impression on any visitor, so come visit us. I look

forward to hearing from members about the tourism gems in their

region.

L. Doerkson: I am certainly pleased to rise in support of the tourism sector.

It is certainly a vital industry in our province. As British Columbians,

we are incredibly proud of our home and love the opportunity to share it

with people from across Canada and, of course, the world.

As we recognize Tourism Week, an essential contribution of tourism

attractions, operators and businesses, we also have to acknowledge the

challenges they have faced over the last few years. Many tourism

operators, of course, are still recovering from the challenges of the

COVID-19 pandemic, and it is more important than ever that we continue

to support them and ensure that they are able to showcase our province,

its heritage and its beauty for years to come.

I have the incredible privilege of living in what I consider to be

one of the most beautiful regions of our prov­ince. In my opinion,

Cariboo-Chilcotin is full of some of the most incredible landscapes,

best recreational opportunities and, of course, home to the most

welcoming people in British Columbia.

[11:05 a.m.]

From agritourism to outdoor recreation, like wildlife viewing,

fishing, hunting and mountain biking to world-class wilderness resorts

and guest ranches and events, like our many rodeos and stampedes, there

is certainly no shortage of tourism opportunities in my

constituency.

We have access to some of the most amazingly beautiful places,

like Tweedsmuir Park and others, which offer spectacular scenery, hiking

and back-country activities. There is, of course, the annual Williams

Lake Stampede, when we welcome thousands of people from across Canada

and the United States to take

part in the rodeo, the parades and other

activities that go along with stampede. It’s always one of my favourite

weekends. I certainly love to watch the city truly come alive and our

whole community pull together to make these incredible events

happen.

But the fun is not only limited to the Williams Lake Stampede.

Interlakes, Bridge Lake and many other communities host rodeos and

stampedes throughout the entire summer. Additionally, we have numerous

farmers markets, fairs and other community events, world-class mountain

bike trails and concerts that attract people from across the province.

This year 100 Mile House is even hosting a country artist named Aaron

Pritchett at a party in the park.

Cariboo-Chilcotin is also home to some of the best fishing

anywhere. You can enjoy it almost anywhere through­out our region,

but for certain, you should take a trip down Highway 24 as it’s known to

many as the Fishing Highway.

I want to take the time to recognize the incredible, dedicated

teams of people that are behind each and every one of these events. They

literally would not be possible without the amazing volunteers and

organizers that put so much time and effort into making them an

incredible success.

Additionally, I want to thank all of our tourism sector workers —

the museum curators, hotel managers and em­ployees, wilderness

guides, guide outfitters, parks workers and so many others — who work

every day to showcase our province to the world. Thank you for investing

in our communities, for educating people and reminding us of why we are

so lucky to live here in British Columbia.

I also want to call on the members of this House, particularly

those on the other side of this chamber, to in turn invest in our

tourism sector. Many are still trying to get back on their feet after

years of low visitor numbers and the cost of having to modify their

operations. Operators have also had the challenge of dealing with, of

course, wildfires and natural disasters that have seen their businesses

cut off from their clientele.

Tourism is a multi-billion-dollar industry in our prov­ince

and a major contributor to our economy. Government must respond by

ensuring that operators have the support they need to be successful. We

also have to invest in our province and ensure it’s a place people want

to visit and explore and are able to feel safe doing so.

This Tourism Week I join my B.C. United colleagues in this House

in expressing my continued support for the tourism sector and the

integral role it plays in every corner of our province.

M. Babchuk: I am happy to stand today and celebrate Tourism Week and highlight

the North Island.

The past few years have been tough on the tourism in­dustry,

but we’ve seen innovation and growth in our riding. We are proud of how

our region has grown and established a thriving ecotourism industry. As

we see international travel rebound, our region welcomes visitors from

around the world to experience world-class outdoor adventures, ranging

from spectacular whale watching and grizzly bear viewing to sport

fishing, which has been foundational to the history of tourism

development in our region for generations.

I could talk forever on the opportunities for visitors in my

riding, but I would like to highlight a few Indigenous tourism

initiatives in the North Island that our government has supported and

invested in. The North Island has many world-class Indigenous-based

businesses, and nations have been resilient. As stewards of the land,

Indigenous tourism on the North Island continues to grow and welcome

visitors from around the globe and residents alike to have new, unique,

powerful and cultural experiences.

As a government, we announced funding that not only supports

Indigenous tourism opportunities but also builds in economic development

initiatives that assist communities through the rural economic

development infrastructure program.

[11:10 a.m.]

The first is the Bear Bay lodge construction project, which is an

initiative of the Homalco Nation. The Hom­alco Nation is

partnering with Bute Inlet Lodge, Whitemantle Heli-Sports and Homalco

Wildlife and Cultural Tours to build a second lodge and adjoining trails

within their territory, to provide sufficient accommodation capacity for

heli-skiing and year-round eco-adventure packages. This will leverage

economic tourism offerings and create livelihoods for Homalco Nation

members who want to reconnect with their homeland, an important priority

for their nation and its economic development vision.

The second is the Gwa’sala-’Nakwaxda’xw Nation Indigenous tourism

business centre project led by the K’awat’si Economic Development Corp.

The Indigenous tourism and business centre project aims to enhance the

guest experience and services offering at the Kwa’lilas Hotel in Port

Hardy, by way of several key renovations and up­grades. These

renovations include new kitchens for its new fine-dining restaurant, as

well as energy-efficient and eco-friendly heat pumps, staff training and

more to enhance the Indigenous experience of visitors.

The third is a Quatsino Nations economic project. This project is

for construction of a service station on their main reserve to provide

economic development and em­ployment opportunities for members,

while adding missing services for their nation and tourists visiting

their territory.

The last I would like to highlight is an Indigenous tourism

initiative that’s creating economic activity in the remote areas of the

North Island with a new Indigenous-owned luxury resort business that

will drive visitor attractions and ecotourism to Kyuquot

Sound.

Along with the support of Island Coastal Economic Trust, through

their capital and innovation program, the

Ka:’yu:’k’t’h’/Che:k:tles7et’h’ First Nation purchased a

year-­round floating resort that will help them with visitor

growth and tourism diversification opportunities. The purchase of this

floating lodge will carry the Walters Cove name and allow the nation to

generate community and economic benefits for the sport fishing sector, a

significant economic driver within Kyuquot Sound.

Along with the rural economic development infrastructure program

is the fairs and events funding that we announced just recently. We know

fairs and festivals are facing many challenges: the loss of staff,

volunteers and attendees, and increasing costs, supply chain shortages,

and other operational complexities. That’s why we’re launching the B.C.

fairs and festivals event which provides up to $30 million in one-time

funding for eligible events.

The Campbell River Wine, Brews and Blues Festival by the Sea; the

Haig-Brown Festival; Salmon Fest 2023 in the Salmon Capital of the

World, the city of Campbell River; the Campbell River Live Streets

program; and Wings ’n’ Wheels 2023; along with the North Island Music

Festival in Port McNeill and the North Central Island professional

contemporary dance series, which brings arts and culture to the North

Island. All of these received funding this year. I’m really proud to be

part of a government that supports this important North Island

sector.

Madam Speaker, tourism is alive and growing in the North Island,

and I invite you to come see what you’re missing.

T. Wat: British Columbia is a beautiful province. With our picturesque

landscapes, vibrant cities and diverse communities, there’s truly

something for everyone. As we kick off B.C. Tourism Week, I want to

highlight the im­portance and accomplishment of the B.C. tourism

sector, while acknowledging the struggles the industry is continuing to

face.

Prior to the pandemic, tourism was a major driver of B.C.’s

economy, a $20.5 billion industry providing more than 161,000 jobs to

British Columbians. Unfortunately, tourism was one of the sectors hit

the hardest by the pandemic, as travel came to a halt and people stayed

in their homes. Despite the devastating impacts of COVID, B.C.’s tourism

industry was able to bounce back, and I praise the resilience of tourism

operators and their workers.

However, despite travel opening back up and tourists flocking to

B.C. once again, our tourism industry is facing major challenges. The

affordability crisis in this province continues to get worse, creating

challenges for both businesses and their workers, as commercial and

residential rents skyrocket. There are even stories of some hotels

having to house their workers in unoccupied rooms at a time when B.C. is

already short 20,000 hotel rooms.

[11:15 a.m.]

Tourism and hospitality businesses are dealing with the increased

costs of food, taxes, the employer health tax and a nearly 20 percent

increase in WorkSafeBC premiums, at a time when they can hardly afford

it. Some 85 percent of restaurants had to borrow money to stay afloat

during the pandemic, with the majority still trying to pay off those

debts. These cost increases don’t help but instead hamper their

recovery. Additionally, labour shortages are severely impacting tourism

businesses as they struggle to find workers, both domestically and

internationally, with backlogs in the temporary foreign worker

registry.

Part of celebrating B.C.’s tourism industry is ensuring it is

well-supported to reach its full potential. The rampant increase in

break-ins, broken windows and other property crimes is taking a toll on

businesses in the downtown core of our cities. Not only are they faced

with covering the costs associated with increased crime, but their

employees and customers no longer feel safe going to their businesses

downtown.

The challenges facing the tourism industry are being felt in

Vancouver’s Chinatown, and the area is seeing frequent business

closures. Kent’s Kitchen, a beloved restaurant, a staple of Chinatown,

is closing its doors on April 30, due to a 30 percent rent increase that

they cannot afford. Daisy Garden Kitchen, a historic family-owned

restaurant that has been operating for more than 40 years, shut its

doors earlier this year, due to labour shortages.

Chinatown is a popular destination for tourists visiting the Lower

Mainland. However, Destination Vancouver CEO Royce Chwin has said: “We

have two operators in Europe right now who have stopped selling tours to

Chinatown and Gastown because they are worried about safety.” This is

devastating news to the businesses in Chinatown that rely on the

interest of tourists to stay afloat.

I’m proud to represent Richmond here, alongside my fellow

colleagues. It is a city filled with culture, world-class food and a

true coastal experience. Visitors won’t be disappointed. Britannia

Shipyard, West Dyke Trail and the Richmond Night Market, which was

featured in season 8 of The Amazing Race Canada , are just a few

of the many popular destinations Richmond has to offer.

I will continue to be a vocal advocate for the tourism sector in

Richmond and all of our beautiful B.C. So during Tourism Week, let’s

not….

Deputy Speaker: Thank you, Member.

J. Rice: I’m enjoying listening to all the members in this House brag about

their own community and insist that their community is the best tourism

spot. That’s the amazing thing about British Columbia. There are so many

amazing places to explore and discover, and fun things to do. It’s no

wonder that 100,000 people came to B.C. last year — 100,000 people moved

here because it’s such a cool place to live, work and

explore.

As we celebrate Tourism Week in B.C., we recognize this industry,

and the people who work in it, for its important contributions to our

province. Tourism has been, and always will be, integral to who we are

as British Columbians. B.C.’s Tourism Week recognizes tourism’s vital

im­portance to our province as one of B.C.’s leading industries. I

want to extend my sincere appreciation and admiration to everyone who is

working in B.C.’s tourism industry — especially to those that work

within my riding of North Coast, soon to be North Coast–Haida Gwaii, I

presume.

[11:20 a.m.]

Tourism has made a significant contribution to our local economies

and has a been a major employer, not just for my riding but throughout

British Columbia.

Not only that, I wanted to just point out something that’s really

significant in my riding, with such a high Indigenous population. It is

bringing First Nations people who want to get back to the land and get

back to the waters that they have lived and grown up on and with for

thousands of years. A burgeoning tourism industry on the Central Coast

and Haida Gwaii, for example, is introducing youth to tremendous

opportunities. They are in their element doing what is just so

inherently theirs to do.

I’d point out that tourism enriches our lives. It supports a

greater diversity of amenities, too, such as museums and galleries,

festivals, sporting events, transportation, dining and wining tours,

parks and rec facilities and other benefits that make life better here

in B.C.

This year is the first travel season without pandemic-related

border restrictions. We’re excited to spotlight B.C. once again as this

world-class destination.

I wanted to talk about the $30 million into the fairs and

festivals grant. That’s supporting festivals all over B.C. Locally, in

my community, it supports Salmon Fest, which was really at risk of

continuing on. It’s hosted by the

Nisg̱a’a Nation. It celebrates

the return of salmon — critical. That’s one of the grant recipients in

my riding. There are others.

I wanted to just talk about some of the unique places. For

example, in the Bella Coola Valley, we have the annual Bella Coola Music

Festival in July. It’s a big draw. There’s also a rich Indigenous

history. Be sure, if you ever go to the valley, to take a petroglyph

tour guided by the Nuxalk First Nation. Tweedsmuir Park is pretty

popular. The lodge is renowned for its heli-skiing packages.

Lots of amazing accommodations. I want to list some, but I can’t

list them all. I’m reticent to leave someone out and hurt their

feelings.

Haida Gwaii is called Canada’s archipelago for a reason. You’ll

find endemic species of plants and animals. This is an archipelago of

islands that escaped glaciation. We have an amazing, amazing museum in

Haida Gwaii. You have to go. It’s in Skidegate.

We also, up in the North — in Masset, Old Massett and Tow Hill —

have kilometres and kilometres of white sand beaches. Think Tofino with

no people. We have that. That is a great opportunity, if you need to get

away from people.

I have 12 seconds. I’ll just highlight Klemtu and Spirit Bear

Lodge. If you want to go see white bears, go there.

Don’t forget Prince Rupert. Lots of unique challenges. I was once

a guide at the Khutzeymateen Grizzly Sanctuary. A place to check

out.

T. Shypitka: It’s my pleasure to rise today and celebrate Tourism Week in our

beautiful province of British Columbia.

As everyone in this chamber is very aware, British Columbia is one

of the most amazing places in the world to visit, with breathtaking

landscapes, diverse wildlife and a rich culture that can be found in

every corner of this province. Every year millions of people from all

over the world visit B.C. to experience its sights and attractions and

incredibly welcoming hospitality.

With so many visitors to the region, tourism is one of the main

drivers of the province’s economy, generating billions of dollars in

revenue and supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs. It cannot be

understated how valuable this industry is and how important it is to

keep focusing on its growth and continued success.

Now, some may call me biased for this, but I believe the East

Kootenay region is the best place to visit in British Columbia. It

offers some of the most incredible scenery and some of the most exciting

outdoor adventures in the province.

Interjections.

T. Shypitka: I hear some groans over here.

With more than 670 named mountains in the East Kootenay district

to explore, it is a worthwhile destination, with hundreds of different

trails. Also, with more than 340 kilometres of slopes, any ski or

snowboard fanatic will have a great time hitting the mountains and

enjoying the fresh powder.

[11:25 a.m.]

From the majestic Rocky Mountains to the crystal-clear lakes and

rivers, the Kootenays are a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor

enthusiasts. We have many of the best hot springs in the province. The

naturally heated waters are famous for their health and wellness

benefits, with the history of these springs going back hundreds of

years.

With some of the most diverse and large game species in North

America, the East Kootenays are home to the best hunting, fishing and

viewing opportunities anywhere. The East Kootenays are home to a variety

of species that fly anglers covet, including rainbow trout, eastern

brook char, kokanee, Rocky Mountain whitefish and bass. Perhaps most

notably, it’s the home of the westslope cutthroat trout. Every summer

fly fishers from around the globe travel to the town of Fernie to drift

the renowned Elk River, stalking these big top water cutties.

We are also home to some of the best bull trout fishing in the

world. A 200-kilometre stretch around Highway 3, between Cranbrook and

Elkford, hosts the Kootenay River, Bull River, Elk River and the Wigwam

River. All these tributaries provide an excellent fishing experience for

bull trout.

If golf is your bag, there are nine excellent golf courses within

25 minutes of Cranbrook and Kimberley including the signature hole at

the Shadow Mountain golf course, aptly known as The Monster, which

features 606 yards from the tips and a dramatic 100-foot elevation drop.

Along with awe-inspiring views, this hole is sure to leave its mark on

any golfer.

Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling and ATV

adventures, whitewater rafting, houseboating on the Koocanusa, biking,

fat biking, world-class camping, horseback riding, trail running, disc

golf, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, swimming, cliff diving, scenic

float trips, cat skiing, heli-skiing, downhill skiing, ice skating,

hockey and, of course, curling — this is just to name a few of the

recreational opportunities in Kootenay East.

It’s not just the natural beauty that makes the Kootenays such a

special place to visit. There’s also the people, the culture and the

history that make this region unique. The resource sector built this

area of the province well over 125 years ago, namely mining and

forestry. But tourism in the Kootenays has been growing steadily over

the years, thanks to the hard work and dedication of local businesses,

tourism organizations and communities.

By attracting visitors from around the world, the Kootenays have

been able to create jobs, stimulate economic growth and highlight the

region’s unique culture and heritage, such as our rich First Nation

cultures.

For example, the St. Eugene Golf Resort hotel and casino is a

major example of First Nation heritage, culture and reconciliation. We

are fiercely proud of the Ktunaxa people that took the site, a former

residential school, and turned it into a world-class tourism destination

— the only one of its kind in Canada, I might add. Visiting its

interpretive centre is a must see.

Tourism is not just about economic benefits. It’s also about

creating memorable experiences, fostering cultural exchange and

promoting environmental sustainability. Wildlife management is crucial

for tourism in British Columbia, as the province is known for its rich

and abundant wildlife, such as bears, elk and moose. Effective wildlife

management is essential to protect these species and ensure their

survival as well as to maintain their natural habitats and

ecosystems.

That is why I have introduced the Wildlife Amendment Act (No. 2),

2023. I would like all speakers to today’s motion to support second

reading of this bill so we have the means to support the wildlife and

habitat in this great province, which is critical to tourism.

We must continue to welcome visitors from around the world to our

beautiful province. Let’s work together to make British Columbia an even

more vibrant and welcoming destination.

R. Russell: It’s my pleasure to rise and join the ranks of others in the House

here to speak in favour of this motion.

I don’t think I need to claim that my riding is the best in the

province. I think I will just let it speak for itself. I think the truth

will come out. Come and visit, and you will see the reality of

that.

The member for Cariboo-Chilcotin placed the request to say he

wished that there was some more support for these organizations. That’s

a timely comment. I think that the funding that has been referenced

earlier identifies support for over 1,800 different events around the

province. I think that that’s a pretty remarkable investment in tourism

across our province.

He also mentioned, which I appreciate, his gratitude to the

organizers of those events around the province.

[11:30 a.m.]

I think it’s a testament to how much work…. Many of us in this

place have probably spent some time organizing these events. It’s a

testament to how much is happening across B.C. that we have that many

events that are getting supported through this fairs, festivals and

events funding. So my hands go up to all the hard work that is being

done out there.

I also had a long list of things in my riding that I was going to

speak to, which I think are amazing and I would love to highlight. I

think instead…. One of the things you have heard me speak to in this

place before is my passion for rural communities and economic

diversification, which tourism is certainly a key part of. You’ve also

heard me speak about regenerative agriculture and the value of that

aspect of sustainable agriculture and the opportunities

there.

One thing that was new to me, recently, in conversations with

economic development organizations around the province, is a passion for

regenerative tourism, which is a new space. I was not familiar with the

term. It is the notion of going beyond the idea of tourism that simply

doesn’t cost environmentally or socially. Regenerative tourism as a

notion of actually giving something back into those environmental and

social systems in which those tourism operations operate is a very

exciting space to me, and it seems like there’s a lot of enthusiasm

there.

I will take the opportunity to speak to some of those tourist

events in my own riding. This weekend, for ex­ample, a very small

land holder, Chris Van Hooydonk — just outside Oliver, runs Backyard

Farm — is partnering with Road 13. They’re putting on a demonstration of

the amazing food that he, as a chef, has been able to produce in

partnership with the winery.

And then similarly, later this weekend, there is a seminar taking

place at the District Wine Village, outside Oliver, which is a

fascinating tourist opportunity bringing together small vineyards to be

able to share their products with visitors. Certainly an opportunity

there if you’re interested in learning a little bit more about wine

tasting and how that’s done.

We have mining tourism in our area. In Princeton, the Copper

Mountain mine has Mining Day coming up next month. It should be a

highlight, an opportunity to see…. A member in this House has expressed

some concern to me about how much capacity an electric vehicle can tow.

Well, if you’re interested in seeing how much an electric truck can

haul, have a look at what is being accomplished at Copper Mountain mine

with their tramway, in partnership with the B.C. government, in terms of

reducing emissions.

We have small-scale mining tourism, with operations like Rock

Candy Mine near where I grew up myself. We have an enormous amount of

wine tourism in the region. And those wineries, the grape production in

the Okanagan particularly, have been hit hard this winter with a

bitterly cold spell that killed a lot of the buds. So they would

probably extra-appreciate the support.

That list goes on and on. The list that I was going to read out is

only those tourist opportunities around natural resources. The reason I

do that is to highlight how deeply embedded those opportunities are to

diversify, in terms of those resource economies, the opportunities to

bring more support into our communities.

I see my time is up, so I will stop there.

J. Sturdy: Clearly, we all agree that British Columbia offers an enormous

range of incredible experiences and scenes right across the whole

province. Tourism in British Columbia is an important industry that

contributes so much to our communities, our economy and our welcoming

culture.

The revenue that is generated every year is vital for the

continuation of services in our province, especially that export

revenue, that new money that comes into the province as a result of

international tourism.

[11:35 a.m.]

To start off the week-long celebration for tourism across Canada,

I’d be remiss, like others in this House, if I didn’t take the

opportunity to highlight some of the attractions in West Vancouver–Sea

to Sky that generate a passion for nature and activities that contribute

to the overall well-being of people’s mental health.

For example, some of the Indigenous-led Talaysay Tours offer

unique Aboriginal cultural and ecotourism experiences in and around

Vancouver, Squamish and the Sunshine Coast. The Sea to Sky Gondola

offers incredible views, access to the alpine and promotes physical

activity and healthy living. Just down the road from the gondola, the

Britannia Mine Museum, a century-old gold and copper mine and mill, puts

you in an old underground mining train through a historic haulage

tunnel, with the opportunity to see Boom, which is an interactive

experience that brings that old 20-storey mill No. 3 building back to

life. It’s an amazing experience, if you haven’t been there.

I haven’t even got to Squamish yet, let alone Whistler, which is

one of the biggest tourism attractions in British Columbia and home to

the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Líl̓wat7úl

Cultural Centre. These tourist options and opportunities fos­ter

supportive and inclusive communities, stimulate job growth and allow

everyone to connect with British Columbia’s people and

landscapes.

What was a game changer and allowed much of this growth in tourism

and growth in communities was the previous B.C. Liberal’s decision to

make a $700 million investment in the Sea to Sky Highway improvement

project. It was truly a game-changer. Not only did the expansion improve

provided a tremendous expansion to economic opportunities in Squamish,

Whistler, Pemberton and even into Lillooet and the Bridge River

valley.

As we all know, with growth come challenges. You’ve probably all

heard me rail on endlessly about the need for regional transit in the

Sea to Sky but also around the province in general. Tourism is one of

the many reasons that the Sea to Sky communities needs the province to

take action.

Since 2017, local governments, in partnership with First Nations,

have been advocating to implement regional transit services to provide

transit options from Lillooet and Mount Currie all the way to West

Vancouver. The first step needed is a change to the B.C. transit

legislation that would allow not only local government elected officials

but First Nation representation on transit commissions. I’ve put forward

such a private member’s bill several times now, but sadly, this

government has yet to act.

We must improve transit not just in the Sea to Sky region but

around the province. Recently, a British television program highlighted

how difficult it is to get around our province. It’s not just the lack

of bus services but increasingly looking at road maintenance and, of

course, ferry services as well.

While many sectors have struggled with a labour shortage, B.C.

Ferries has repeatedly seen cancellation after cancellation, which are

being blamed almost solely on staff shortages. Government has the tools

to make changes that would reduce staff shortages, yet day after day, we

hear more and more stories about British Columbians and tourists being

stranded without transport to and from communities up and down the

coast.

We have such an incredible tourism industry in our province, but

it’s important that we work continuously to improve these services as

the sector faces increased pressures. The province has an important role

in creating the space in timely permitting decisions and supporting

business through a range of policies that don’t crush the willingness

for small business to take risk and to make investments so visitors, be

they domestic or international, have the great experience in this

province that they deserve.

B. D’Eith: It’s Tourism Week in British Columbia. B.C., of course, is an

incredible tourist destination — for ex­ample, skiing in Whistler,

boating in the Okanagan, visiting the Legislature here in Victoria,

camping in my home town in Golden Ears Park, seeing incredible music

festivals in the Kootenays or visiting the magical land of Haida

Gwaii.

Tourism is a huge contributor to B.C.’s economy. Before the

pandemic, there were $22 billion per annum generated by the tourism

industry. I do want to thank the entire tourism industry, who pivoted

during the pandemic to keep us safe.

You did an incredible job during a very, very difficult

time.

Of course, we all worked together during that period. There was a

tourism task force brought together with leaders from business, labour,

First Nations and non-profits to seek innovative ideas on how to recover

from this really tough time.

[11:40 a.m.]

Fifty million dollars was allocated to the economic

re­covery plan, $100 million to the community economic recovery

infrastructure plan, $300 million to the small business recovery grants

that tourism companies could apply for, and, of course, there were

hiring incentives, be­cause we knew there were challenges with

labour, to stimulate growth in the labour pool. Restaurants, for

example, were able to purchase liquor at wholesale prices, and that has

been retained into the future.

This summer will be the first summer back with full participation

after the pandemic border restrictions. We’re anticipating cruise ships

to come back in a record way, with 700 cruises and over 2.23 million

estimated visitors. Air travel is increasing, with more than 19 million

domestic and international passengers passing through Vancouver

International Airport in ’22, which, of course, brings benefits to our

accommodation sector.

As the Parliamentary Secretary for Arts and Film to the Minister

of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport…. We’re under that ministry. It was

one of the hardest sectors to be hit. All of them, whether it was

tourism, arts, culture or sport…. Fairs, festivals and events were

actually closed for a lengthy period of time. In many cases, the first

to be shut down and the last to reopen.

These are so important to our communities, to our regional and

provincial events, and also very important for our tourism recovery.

They’re just now starting to recover, and they’re facing incredible

challenges with increased supply costs due to global supply chain

challenges, loss of key labour and volunteers, increased talent and

artist costs, and audiences that are reluctant to come back or slow to

return to full capacity.

That’s why we were very pleased to renew the B.C. fairs, festival

and events fund. This $30 million fund was committed to hundreds of

organizations in every community, and it will have a massive impact in

terms of returning events, and, in some cases, will be the deciding

factor as to whether an event or festival returns.

For example, we heard very clearly from festivals like the

Vancouver Folk Music Festival, who was looking at cancelling their event

in 2023. After hearing that they would be receiving this funding, they

green-lit their program for the summer. This is happening all over the

province.

This hits home. There were 19 events that were funded by the

recent round in Mission and Maple Ridge, and these are important local

events, important events for every community.

In our area: the Mission Folk Music Festival, Arts Alive festival,

the Historic Motor Races festival, the Bear Mountain Trail and bike

race, African Culture Harvest Festival and the 2023 Candlelight Parade

in Mission. In Maple Ridge: the Rock Maple Ridge festival, Country Fest,

Paradym Dance Challenge tournament, the Caribbean Festival, Celebrate

the Night, the Canadian Multicultural Day Festival, Music on the Wharf

and Earth Day.

Now, the pandemic created a lot of hardship, and people were

having to think outside the box. We’re really looking at cultural

tourism as a real opportunity for British Columbia.

We just met last week with the film industry and many others

during Creative Industries Week. We talked about things like how

important film tourism, for example, might be. We think of New Zealand

with The Lord of the Rings, and everyone going down there to

visit Hobbiton — the big pilgrimage. But even in Mission, we have

Rocko’s Diner, which is incredibly popular with young folks because of

the Riverdale series.

We’re talking about how, when we build back better, we have a real

opportunity to capitalize on the international interest in film and

television locations in British Columbia. I think about that. We’re

going to get The Last of Us season 2. The biggest production in

the world. What a great opportunity for cultural tourism.

The future of B.C.’s tourism is bright, and I’m confident that we

will rebuild this sector even better than before.

B. Stewart: It’s a pleasure to stand up and speak about the annual Tourism

Week in British Columbia. That brings together all tourism partners to

celebrate British Columbians, the destinations, the tourism businesses

and employees from across the province.

This year’s theme, “The power of tourism,” highlights the

tremendous benefits that tourism brings to our prov­ince, as it

plays a vital role in enhancing the quality of life for British

Columbians, supporting well-paying jobs, preserving our culture and our

heritage and driving economic growth.

I want to take this opportunity to highlight the importance of

tourism in Kelowna and the Central Okanagan and the many incredible

experiences we have to offer — not to take away from all the other

members that have talked about the best place on earth to

visit.

[11:45 a.m.]

Whether you are a foodie or a wine connoisseur, the region’s

restaurants, wineries, craft breweries, cideries and distilleries will

leave your taste buds craving more. In the Okanagan, there are over

9,617 acres of vines, accounting for 86 percent of the B.C. vineyard

acreage. It’s home to more than 222 wineries in the valley, out of 336

in the province. So take a tour. Indulge in the wine and the delicious

seasonal products grown right in the valley.

For those of you looking for more adventure, Kelowna boasts many

other activities, like the trails. Hike to the top of a mountain. Visit

the historic Myra Canyon trestles. Take to the water for endless

activities. Relax on one of the many beaches and soak up the

sun.

If you’re a golfer, there are more than 19 different golf courses

in the Central Okanagan and 110,000 yards of golf courses. With over

2,000 hours of sunshine in an average year, Kelowna hosts more than 40

national and international sporting events.

So as you can see, tourism has an important role in our community,

and Tourism Week underscores the importance of continuing to support

this sector, as it is one of the hardest-hit by COVID-19 and the

pandemic and the provincewide impact.

Prior to the pandemic, this industry was a juggernaut, providing

more than 161,000 jobs and generating $22.3 billion of revenue in the

province. However, according to Destination BC, in 2021, for the

industry, the numbers are still depressed at $13.5 billion. This is a

significant drop from pre-pandemic levels and has left many tourism

operators struggling.

It’s not just the revenue that’s impacted. It’s the workers that

have been hard hit as well. They continue to deal with the affordability

crisis, with stories of some of the hotels having to house workers in

unoccupied rooms, while B.C. is already short 20,000 hotel rooms.

Short-term rentals continue, also, as an unregulated sector and remove

significant accommodation for B.C. tourism workers.

Furthermore, businesses are struggling to find workers

domestically and internationally, with backlogs in the temporary foreign

worker registry of over 9,600, and a five-month wait. Other uphill

battles these businesses are facing include the increase of cost in

food, taxes and nearly a 20 percent increase in their WorkSafeBC

premiums at a time when they can barely afford it. It’s a huge burden

for the industry that is already struggling to keep afloat.

As if that’s not enough, 85 percent of the restaurants had to

borrow money to stay open during the pandemic, with the majority still

trying to pay off those debts. We need to take action to help the

tourism and hospitality industry to recover.

However, the current NDP government’s lack of support, coupled

with high taxes and red tape, is hindering the sector’s recovery.

Instead of focusing on creating a business-friendly environment, the

government is stifling growth by making it difficult for businesses to

operate. Where are the solutions for repeated vandalism attacks, theft

and drug use on the streets in our tourism communities?

To help this sector, the government must address these barriers

that are impeding growth and create environmental certainty that will

attract and retain tourists, leading to more jobs and economic

growth.

As we celebrate Tourism Week, I’m proud of the tourism industry’s

resilience and the determination. I am confident that it will continue

to play a vital role in our province’s economic and social well-being.

Together, let us work to find the solutions for a brighter future for

the tourism sector.

S. Chant: Thank you for the opportunity to speak to the motion brought

forward by the member for Nelson-Creston: “Be it resolved that this

House celebrates this week as Tourism Week and recognizes the valuable

economic and cultural contributions that tourism brings to

B.C.”

Today I’m speaking from the territories of the

lək̓ʷəŋən people, the Esquimalt

and the Songhees.

I work, live and learn in my beautiful riding of North

Vancouver–Seymour, situated in the unceded territory of the Coast

Salish, specifically the Tsleil-Waututh and Squamish Nations.

I’m grateful for the opportunity to be on lands that have been

stewarded for time immemorial by those who lived here first.

[11:50 a.m.]

I’m going to speak to the intersection of tourism and

communities, non-profits, the tourism sector and others to promote

inclusion in the tourism sector of British Columbia.

As you have heard from the rest of the speakers, we have much to

offer and much to celebrate in B.C. The natural wonders of our oceans,

forests, lakes, rivers and hot springs bring many people outdoors,

whether they be from another community, another province or another part

of the world. Our cities, towns and communities also have a lot to

offer, whether it be in historical value; unique, high-quality products;

culture and diversity; or just the novelty of a different place to

visit.

who need a variety of accommodations in order to be able to enjoy what

B.C. has to offer. From museums that have low-stimulation days to

encourage those with autism to come out and learn about the history and

culture of an area through the sit-ski programs at many of our mountain

resorts to whale watching on the coastline, major efforts have been made

through the past decade to reduce barriers and to allow access for

everyone, regardless of ability.

[Mr. Speaker in the chair.]

1998 is Power To Be. This non-profit organization creates access to

nature for youth, families and adults living with cognitive, physical,

financial or social barriers. Through three programs, dreams of

inclusive adventures, wilderness wellness and catalyst for good, they

support folks to access the magic of the outdoors. Their diverse

programs offer opportunities to explore, learn and connect in safe, fun

and inclusive environments.

Inclusive adventures is focused on building skills and creating

positive outdoor experiences. Wilderness wellness offers experiences

that nurture well-being and personal growth. Catalyst for good develops

projects for social change, which are flexible in order to meet specific

needs.

Some of the programs that Power to Be implements are in our

spectacular B.C. parks. I had the opportunity last month to walk

alongside as they demonstrated the use of a mobility assist device that

allows access to hiking trails, this one on the base of Mount Seymour.

The apparatus has wheels and also carrying bars on the side so that a

person with significant mobility loss can be out on trails with support

by family, friends and/or volunteers.

B.C. Parks has made a commitment to inclusion, in collaboration

with a variety of community partners. It’s a pledge to work towards a

provincial parks system that is welcoming and meaningfully accessible to

and inclusion over the next three years and will be used to upgrade

facilities including washrooms, parking lots and trails to an accessible

standard.

These are just a few examples that illustrate B.C.’s commitment

towards barrier-free access to all the wonderful adventures our tourism

I am so impressed by the work that’s been done and also by the things

that are to come.

Tourism in B.C. is a valuable, value-added resource and is not

just for international visitors. It’s also for all of us to enjoy,

barrier-free.

S. Chant moved adjournment of debate.

Motion approved.

H. Yao: I seek leave to make an introduction.

Leave granted.

Introductions by Members

H. Yao: I would like to ask the chamber to welcome Gleneagle Secondary

School’s grade 10 students. It’s being led by Michelle Hernandez of the

grade 10 class.

On behalf of the MLA for Coquitlam–Burke Mountain, we welcome you.

Thank you so much for joining us today.

Hon. J. Whiteside moved adjournment of the House.

Motion approved.

Mr. Speaker: This House stands adjourned until 1:30 p.m. today.

The House adjourned at 11:54 a.m.

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