First Session, 43rd Parliament

Official Report

of Debates

(Hansard)

Wednesday, February 19, 2025

Afternoon Sitting

Issue No. 3

The Honourable Raj Chouhan , Speaker

ISSN 1499-2175

The HTML transcript is provided for informational purposes only.

The PDF transcript remains the official digital version.

Contents

Routine Business

Introductions by Members

Introduction and First Reading of Bills

Bill 2 — Acting Conflict of Interest Commissioner Continuation Act

Hon. Niki Sharma

Bill 3 — Protected Areas of British Columbia Amendment Act , 2025

Hon. Laanas / Tamara Davidson

Members’ Statements

Bill Brassington

Janet Routledge

Cow Moose Sign Project

Lorne Doerkson

North Vancouver Chamber of Commerce

Susie Chant

Heritage Week Events in Surrey

Elenore Sturko

Respectful Dialogue

Amshen / Joan Phillip

Robin Sharpe

Sheldon Clare

Oral Questions

Diversion of Safe Supply to Illicit Market and Role of Pharmacies

John Rustad

Hon. David Eby

Elenore Sturko

Economy and Job Protection

Jeremy Valeriote

Hon. Brenda Bailey

Indigenous Consultation and Environmental Requirements for Resource Development Projects

Jeremy Valeriote

Hon. Christine Boyle

Management of Safe Supply and Diversion to Illicit Market

Claire Rattée

Hon. David Eby

Rosalyn Bird

Hon. Josie Osborne

Staffing Shortages in Health Care System

Brennan Day

Hon. Josie Osborne

Kootenay Lake Ferry Labour Dispute

Harman Bhangu

Hon. Jennifer Whiteside

Tabling Documents

Office of the Auditor General, annual follow-up report, 2019-2022, May 2024

Office of the Auditor General, annual report, 2023-24

Office of the Auditor General, report, Interim Report on the Examination of MNP’s Administration of the Advanced Research

and Commercialization Grant Program , June 2024

Office of the Auditor General, report, Final Report on the Examination of MNP’s Administration of the Advanced Research and

Commercialization Grant Program , August 2024

Office of the Conflict of Interest Commissioner, annual report, 2023

Elections B.C., annual report, 2023-24, and service plan, 2024-25–2026-27

Elections B.C., report of the Chief Electoral Officer, general local elections October

15, 2022

Office of the Human Rights Commissioner, annual report, 2023-24, and service plan,

2024-25–2026-27

Office of the Merit Commissioner, annual report, 2023-24

Office of the Merit Commissioner, merit performance audit, 2023-24

Office of the Police Complaint Commissioner, annual report, 2023-24

Office of the Ombudsperson, annual report, 2023-24

Office of the Ombudsperson, special report, Hire Power: The Appointment of Ineligible Candidates to the Temporary Assignments

in the Public Service , June 2024

Office of the Ombudsperson, special report, Under Inspection: The Hiatus in BC Correctional Centre Inspections , July 2024

Office of the Ombudsperson, special report, Short Changed: Ensuring Federal Benefits Paid to the Province Reach Caregivers of

Children with Disabilities , January 2025

Office of the registrar of lobbyists, determination decision 24-02; AbCellera Biologics

Inc.; designated filer: Carl Hansen; June 27, 2024

Office of the registrar of lobbyists, determination decision 24-04; BC Chamber of

Commerce; designated filer: Fiona Famulak; December 11, 2024

Office of the Representative for Children and Youth, annual report, 2023-24, and service

plan, 2024-25–2026-27

Office of the Representative for Children and Youth, Don’t Look Away: How One Boy’s Story has the Power to Shift a System of Care for Children

and Youth , July 2024

Office of the Representative of Children and Youth, Don’t Look Away: How One Boy’s Story has the Power to Shift a System of Care for Children

and Youth , July 2024 (revised)

Office of the Representative for Children and Youth, No Time to Wait: A Review of MCFD’s Child Welfare Workforce, Part One , July 2024

Office of the Representative for Children and Youth, No Time to Wait: A Review of MCFD’s Child Welfare Workforce, Part Two , February 2025

Office of the Representative for Children and Youth, Too Many Left Behind: Ensuring Children and Youth with Disabilities Thrive , January 2025

Reports from Committees

Selection Committee , first report, February 19, 2025

Hon. Mike Farnworth

Tabling Documents

Public Guardian and Trustee of B.C., annual report, 2023-24

B.C. Ferry Commission, annual report, fiscal year ending March 31, 2024

Chief records officer, annual report, 2023-24

Office of the provincial health officer, annual report of activities under the Drinking

Water Protection Act, 2022-23

Orders of the Day

Throne Speech Debate

Susie Chant

Amna Shah

Steve Kooner

Hon. Spencer Chandra Herbert

Trevor Halford

Hon. Jodie Wickens

Amelia Boultbee

Jennifer Blatherwick

Brennan Day

Wednesday, February 19, 2025

The House met at 1:33 p.m.

[The Speaker in the chair.]

Routine Business

Prayers and reflections: Bowinn Ma.

Introductions by Members

Debra Toporowski / Qwulti’stunaat : I’m very pleased to introduce three people today in the gallery: my spouse, Doug

Morgan; Bill Routley; and Sandy MacDonald, who is Bill’s spouse.

Bill Routley is the former member for Cowichan Valley and my former boss, and he’s

known as Brother Bill in the House. He’s also shared with me all about the jiggery-pokery

that happens around this place.

Can the House join me in welcoming my guests.

[1:35 p.m.]

Peter Milobar : I am sure everyone in this chamber agrees with me that November 18 was a very momentous

date in B.C. this year. That would be for the reason that my wife, Lianne, and myself

welcomed our third grandchild, granddaughter Ellie Marie Janowsky, to join us all

in British Columbia. She’s healthy and happy and full of sass, like her mom and her

grandmas and everyone else that I seem to know in my life. Her older sister, Zoey,

is doting on her like crazy.

Would the House please welcome Ellie Marie Janowsky to B.C.

Hon. Josie Osborne : It’s my pleasure today to introduce three representatives from the Hospital Employees

Union who are joining us in the gallery. They are president Lynn Bueckert; Barb Nederpel;

and the coordinator of policy and planning, Caelie Frampton.

The Hospital Employees Union is the biggest health care union here in the province,

with more than 60,000 members. Since 1944, the HEU has advocated strongly for their

members and for public health care. I am incredibly grateful for the work they do

and the advocacy that they provide.

I would ask the House to please help me make them very welcome today.

Hon. Spencer Chandra Herbert : Well, we have a lot to be proud of in this province, but I’m especially proud today

to welcome the 2025 B.C. men’s curling champions to the building. The team plays out

of the fantastic Victoria Curling Club, and they have done us so proud.

Team de Jong is now heading to Kelowna, where they’re going to participate in Montana’s

Brier, to take on all the other great teams across this nation and do us proud, wearing

their B.C. colours, starting February 28. The team comprises skip Cameron de Jong,

third Alex Horvath, second Corey Chester, lead Brayden Carpenter and fifth Paul Cseke.

I know many British Columbians will be there to pack the stadium, to cheer them on.

I hope you’ll all join me in wishing them the best as they take on the best of Canada.

John Rustad : I have a couple of introductions.

I first also want to congratulate the curling team. I very much look forward to watching

some of the curling in Kelowna.

From my riding, I would like to introduce Chief Wilf Adam. He is here, with the delegation

from Lake Babine Nation, for discussions with the government. I very much appreciate

the opportunity to be able to see him and talk to him from time to time, on what Lake

Babine Nation is up to.

Would the House please make him welcome.

The second introduction. Sebastian Zein is here. He’s an individual I’ve worked with

for many years. He’s been instrumental in many things that I’ve been involved in.

He has a keen interest in politics as well as a very good business mind.

Would the House please make him welcome.

Hon. George Chow : Today I have the honour to introduce several members of my ministry’s leadership

team, from the corporate information and records management office, who are here today

to watch question period.

In the gallery, we have Mary LaBoucane, Elizabeth Vander Beesen, Alexandra Khan, Terrell

Les Strange, Jeff Barber, Bruce Schinkelwitz, Trevor Youdale, Tammy Blair and Mario

Miniaci.

I want to thank them for all the work they do on behalf of British Columbians.

Would the House please make them all feel very welcome.

Sheldon Clare : I would like to acknowledge my senior constituency assistant, Adam Schaan, who joins

us today in the House. Adam previously held the position of CA, having worked with

a predecessor of mine, MLA Bob Simpson. Adam brings broad political experience to

my staff, having collaborated over the past 20 years with the NDP, the Greens, independents

and Conservatives.

Would the House please make him feel very welcome.

[1:40 p.m.]

Hon. Lana Popham : What a pleasure it is to rise for the first time, coming back to do the work that

we need to do.

I wanted to point out that one of these curlers, up in front of us, is second skip

Corey Chester. He is my constituent. I know this could reach thousands of viewers,

but I do think he’s my favourite constituent.

Good luck.

It is also my pleasure, as Minister of Agriculture and Food, to welcome two members

of B.C. Dairy to the chamber: Dylan Kruger, director of public affairs, and Jeremy

Dunn, general manager.

When I get up in the morning, I am an early bird. I pour my cup of coffee. I go to

the fridge, get my milk. I am always reminded that our dairy farmers have been up

hours before us, making sure that our milk supply is secure. We thank them for that.

I also would like to mention that there could be no better moment right now than to

support supply management.

Hon. Christine Boyle : I also just want to share a warm welcome to Chief Wilf Adam, as well as other hereditary

and elected leaders and staff here visiting from Lake Babine First Nation, a strong

partner. We had good conversations just this morning and grateful to have them in

this room as a partner in this province.

I ask the House to join in a welcome.

Donegal Wilson : I would like to take this opportunity to welcome Mayor Everett Baker from the beautiful

city of Grand Forks, who’s come here to join us today. I’m not sure where he is, but

I would like to welcome him.

Please make him feel welcome.

Hon. Randene Neill : It’s my pleasure to introduce the following guests to the chamber today.

From Kaska, Harlan Schilling, Chief of the Daylu Dena Council; and Michelle Miller.

From Taku River Tlingit First Nation, spokesperson Charmaine Thom and Charles Pugh.

From the Tāłtān First Nation, Rob McPhee.

Everyone in the House, please join me in welcoming them here today.

Hon. Ravi Parmar : I wanted to join the member across the way in welcoming a good friend and partner,

the mayor of Grand Forks, here to Victoria, here to the House.

I understand that he’s going to be meeting with the Premier or has met with the Premier

today, as well as some other colleagues. He’s a great partner. I’m looking forward

to working with him on forestry issues.

Will the House join me in welcoming the mayor of Grand Forks, Everett Baker, to the

House today.

Larry Neufeld : I’d like the House to join me in welcoming my beautiful bride, Tammy Neufeld, and

my constituency assistant, Heather Lowery, to the House.

Hon. Laanas / Tamara Davidson : I’d like everybody to please join me in welcoming Matthew Kloepper and Jacob Kloepper

from my riding in Prince Rupert, as well as Georgia Riddell and Joshua McLeod, my

two constituency advisers in my office.

Hon. Bowinn Ma : I was also going to stand up to introduce Mayor Everett Baker, but that seems covered

already.

I’d also like to acknowledge Chief Harlan Schilling of Daylu Dena First Nation.

Thank you so much for coming down here from Lower Post.

I understand that Robert Phillips of the First Nations Summit is also here in the

building today with Kevin Scott of RESOLVE Canada.

Would the House please join me in making them all feel very welcome.

Steve Morissette : It’s my pleasure today to introduce my two rockstar constituency advisers here from

the beautiful city of Castlegar. They’re up here in the gallery.

Please join me in welcoming them.

David Williams : At this time, I would like to thank my spouse, Denise Fisher, for attending today.

The Speaker : Why are you so reluctant?

Awesome. Thank you.

Kootenay-Monashee.

[1:45 p.m.]

Steve Morissette : My apologies. First time jitters.

That was Sarah Brownlee and Angelika Brunner.

The Speaker : Anyone else? Now is the time.

Jennifer Blatherwick : I’m afraid…. This is my inexperience. I’m a very new MLA. I may not actually recognize

my constituents. They have just emailed me that they are in the House.

I would like all of you to welcome Dr. Howard and Ms. Carolyn Maugham, who are my

constituents.

If they could wave.

Introduction and

First Reading of Bills

Bill 2 — Acting Conflict of

Interest Commissioner

Continuation Act

Hon. Niki Sharma presented a message from His Honour the Administrator: a bill intituled

Acting Conflict of Interest Commissioner Continuation Act.

Hon. Niki Sharma : I move that the bill be introduced and read a first time now.

I am pleased to introduce the Acting Conflict of Interest Commissioner Continuation

Act. This bill will enable the acting Conflict of Interest Commissioner’s term to

continue until the next Conflict of Interest Commissioner can be appointed for a five-year

term.

The commissioner serves a vital role in promoting public confidence in elected public

officials as they conduct their business. The proposed legislation will ensure that

there is no vacancy in this important office.

The Speaker : Members, on the first reading of the bill.

Motion approved.

Hon. Niki Sharma : I move that the bill be placed on the orders of the day for second reading at the

next sitting of the House after today.

Motion approved.

Bill 3 — Protected Areas of

British Columbia Amendment Act, 2025

Hon. Laanas / Tamara Davidson presented a message from His Honour the Administrator:

a bill intituled Protected Areas of British Columbia Amendment Act, 2025.

Hon. Laanas / Tamara Davidson : I move that the bill be introduced and read a first time now.

This bill contains amendments to the Protected Areas of British Columbia Act. These

amendments continue the legislative work needed to maintain and improve the B.C. protected

areas system. This work includes adding lands to existing parks, updating and improving

legal descriptions, and completing necessary administrative changes.

These amendments will add approximately 143 hectares to three parks and also remove

approximately one hectare of land from one of those same parks. The bill also allows

for the transfer of Kilby Park to the administration of the heritage branch of the

Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport. This bill also contains amendments to

rename two parks to include their Indigenous place names.

On an administrative note, I want to point out to all the members that copies of the

new official plans referenced in the bill will be posted on the B.C. Parks website

for public and member review.

The Speaker : Members, this is first reading of the bill.

Motion approved.

Hon. Laanas / Tamara Davidson : I move that the bill be placed on the orders of the day for second reading at the

next sitting of the House after today.

Motion approved.

Members’ Statements

Bill Brassington

Janet Routledge : I rise to honour the memory of Bill Brassington. He was my life partner, my soulmate,

for almost 50 years. This is the first speech I’ve given in this chamber without his

support.

[1:50 p.m.]

I’ve tested every speech on him first, and he’d time it and give me feedback. He’d

encourage me to be brave, to speak truth to power, to use every opportunity to share

our understanding of what the world is and what the world could be. He’d encourage

me to use my voice in the B.C. Legislature to give voice to those who are shut out

from the halls of power, and then he’d watch me on the legislative channel giving

that speech.

Over the last few months, so many people have shared their Brassington stories. They

describe him as a gentleman. They remember him for his quiet competence, intelligence,

wit, kindness, loyalty and the high standards he set for himself. Be it learning to

golf or to fly a plane, or be it defending workers’ rights, he put his all into everything

he undertook.

He’s remembered as a role model. Bill was a founding member of the Public Service

Alliance of Canada and was instrumental in turning a loose alliance of staff associations

into an effective labour union.

Bill was deeply moved by what he witnessed during a solidarity tour to Nicaragua in

1985, and it motivated him to help found CoDevelopment Canada so unions in B.C. could

support unions in the global south and together raise the living standards of all

workers to their mutual benefit.

Bill believed that politics matters, that we advance social justice by actively working

to elect governments that share our values. He put up lawn signs, attended conventions,

sat on executives, recruited volunteers at every level of government.

Bill was 15 years older than me. We both knew I would probably outlive him, but it’s

really hard to accept that this evening I won’t be able to call him to find out how

he thought I did today.

Cow Moose Sign Project

Lorne Doerkson : You will see their signs all over the province, places that you wouldn’t even expect

to: an image of a cow moose with a snow-covered nose. The image has become well known

in many parts of the province as an initiative continues to expand.

The cow moose sign project started in 2014 by Dan and Vivian Simmons of Williams Lake,

with the intention of protecting cow and calf moose. Dan and Vivian continue to educate

the public, through groups and schools, and actively promote the protection and the

respect of cow moose.

It has been a struggle, but the tenacity of this amazing couple has them winning the

battle. They’ve changed hunting protocols and have changed the opinions of thousands

of residents. They have saved countless numbers of cow and calf moose from harvest.

In 2022, a victory for these animals occurred when, after eight years, the cow-calf-moose-only

season was cancelled, along with 121 cow-calf, limited-entry hunting tags being removed

from the regulations.

This project has the partnership of more than 60 First Nations that have worked with

the conservation service, signing MOUs to protect these incredible animals. Tremendous

support has been given by the Guide Outfitters Association of B.C., B.C. Trappers

Association, Hunters for B.C., Alberta Professional Outfitters Society and so many

businesses throughout the Cariboo-Chilcotin.

A special thanks to the late Rodger Stewart of the government of British Columbia

for recognizing the importance of this campaign.

They do all of this work for no other reason than a love of wildlife. The effort that

Dan and Vivian Simmons have put forth is nothing less than staggering. They are truly

great British Columbians.

I ask this whole House to give these icons of British Columbia a tremendous thank-you.

North Vancouver Chamber of Commerce

Susie Chant : Thank you, Mr. Speaker, for the opportunity to highlight an invaluable asset serving

North Vancouver, the North Vancouver Chamber of Commerce.

To begin, I acknowledge that I’m speaking from the ancestral lands of the lək̓ʷəŋən people, the Esquimalt and the Songhees.

Additionally, I have the privilege of representing North Vancouver–Seymour, which

is located on the traditional lands of the səlilwətaɬ and Sḵwx̱wú7mesh peoples.

[1:55 p.m.]

Over the past year, I have had the opportunity to participate in numerous events organized

by the chamber, all aimed at fostering connections, promoting business growth and

addressing key community issues.

The women in business event, held on International Women’s Day, brought together a

diverse group of women to celebrate and support each other.

A meet-and-greet at a local restaurant featuring Minister Kahlon and chamber leaders,

including CEO Patrick Stafford-Smith, facilitated a meaningful discussion on housing

challenges within our community.

Business After 5 at The Woods Spirit Co, a local distillery, provided an evening of

networking, while the walk and talk event at Seylynn Park and Spirit Trail encouraged

engagement between businesses and residents.

The chamber’s Seaspan shipyards tour generated great excitement, and the attendees

observed the near-complete joint support and supply vessel for the Canadian navy and

learned about the vital role of shipbuilding in our local economy, employing over

4,800 tradespeople and professionals.

The recent senior care services round table at the Sunrise in Lonsdale Square provided

a critical platform for service providers to discuss industry challenges.

Most recently the chamber swiftly convened business leaders, along with the provincial

and federal representatives, to address economic and tariff concerns. Their responsiveness

and dedication continue to benefit our entire community, and I am grateful for their

ongoing efforts.

Heritage Week Events in Surrey

Elenore Sturko : It’s great to be back in the B.C. Legislature with an opportunity to highlight an

exciting event that celebrates Surrey’s rich history.

This Saturday, February 22, during Heritage Week, the Surrey Historical Society is

hosting Pastimes in Past Times at the Cloverdale United Church. The event is a tribute

to how community members spent their leisure time before the advent of television

and modern entertainment. It’s an opportunity for us to step back in time and appreciate

the games, sports, hobbies and activities enjoyed by previous generations.

The event will feature interactive areas where children can play and games from the

past so that adults can revisit the entertainments of their childhood and their parents’

and grandparents’ generations. The gathering will not only educate but also engage

our community in understanding, experiencing and maybe even developing a fondness

for pastimes of past times.

The event will also feature displays of posters, artifacts and memorabilia and offer

a visual journey through time. There’s also going to be a trivia contest and refreshments

to enjoy.

Cloverdale United Church, with its own deep historical roots, serves as the perfect

venue for this event because Cloverdale United Church is designated a heritage building.

In the heart of Cloverdale, it was built in 1950, 75 years ago, and this year will

mark the founding of the United Church of Canada, over 100 years ago in 1925.

I wish to thank the Surrey Historical Society and the Cloverdale United Church for

hosting the event. I hope that each of you join us to learn, laugh and connect with

our past.

Please mark your calendars for this Saturday, February 22, one to five, at the Cloverdale

United Church.

Let’s come together to appreciate pastimes in past times — I dare you to say it five

times fast, Mr. Speaker — and keep our vibrant history alive.

Respectful Dialogue

Amshen / Joan Phillip : Today I want to speak about the importance of decorum in this House. We are here

to serve the people of British Columbia, and every word we speak in this chamber sends

a message to our constituents, including the most vulnerable members of our communities

who rely on us to stand up for their rights and dignity.

When I listen to some of the issues raised in this House, I hear anger, and what’s

really underneath anger is hurt. We’re all in this together, and our constituents

deserve leadership that resolves issues in a professional and positive manner.

Let us use this chamber as a model of respectful dialogue. When we speak with civility,

we demonstrate to the people that their concerns are met with thoughtful consideration.

Every respectful conversation we have here is a promise to our communities that we

are committed to lifting them up.

[2:00 p.m.]

Before I conclude, I’d like to give a shout-out to community leaders who model these

values, like the public and government affairs director at the Salvation Army, who

is soon to retire, for her tireless dedication and hard work serving our communities.

Your commitment shines as an example to us all.

I urge us all to remember the faces behind the issues: the mothers, the children,

the seniors, and every person who looks to us for hope and guidance. Let us ensure

our debates are a space of mutual respect, reflecting the best of who we are as leaders.

Huy ch q’u siem.

Robin Sharpe

Sheldon Clare : I rise today to pay tribute in memory of Robin Sharpe, former mayor of the district

of Wells and a prominent resident and leader in the Cariboo for nearly four decades.

Robin came to the Cariboo in 1986 after completing a bachelor of science degree in

wildlife management from Simon Fraser University, taking up work with B.C. Parks,

and over time, as manager of visitor services at Barkerville Historic Town and Park.

Robin was a pioneer in his own right, being elected to the first district of Wells

council in 1997 and appointed the first CEO of the Barkerville Heritage Trust in 2005.

While retirement from the Barkerville Historic Trust came in 2010, Robin did not rest

easy, rolling up his sleeves and successfully running for office in 2011, this time

for mayor of the district of Wells. Robin ultimately served two terms in the mayor’s

chair.

Over the years, Robin took a leadership role in the region, acting as the committee

chair for the Wells-Barkerville

chapter of Ducks Unlimited Canada, president and treasurer

of the Wells Curling Club, director and treasurer of the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism

Association, member of the Cariboo-Chilcotin regional advisory committee for the Northern

Development Initiative Trust, member of the Cariboo-Chilcotin Beetle Action Coalition,

and member of the Gold Rush Trail marketing board.

The legacy of Robin’s tireless efforts for Barkerville, the district of Wells and

the Cariboo is significant.

I would like to extend my condolences to Robin’s family and friends, as well as the

constituents of the district of Wells and the team at the Barkerville Heritage Trust.

Robin will be greatly missed, but never forgotten.

The Speaker : We will be starting the question period soon. Just a guide and encouragement to all

members: if you can ask a short question and a short answer, then we will cover much

wider and more ground.

Oral Questions

Diversion of Safe Supply to Illicit

Market and Role of Pharmacies

John Rustad : Let me start by reading some quotes with regards to safe supply and the diversion

into criminals’ hands.

On March 12, 2024, the Government House Leader said that widespread diversion was

“simply not true.” In February of this year, the Premier questioned this, saying:

“If it is happening….” In February of 2024, the provincial health officer said: “Diversion

is not in itself good or bad, or right or wrong.” The government’s own leaked report

has shown that this information, these statements, are false.

Will the Premier stop gaslighting the public, will he admit his government has been

misleading the public on this, and will he enact a public inquiry into the safe supply

scandal?

Hon. David Eby : We’ve lost 16,000 people in this province to the toxic drug crisis since it was declared.

These are fathers and mothers and sisters and brothers and colleagues and friends.

The consistent message that has come to us from people who have lost loved ones is

do whatever you can to try to help keep people alive and get them into treatment so

they can rebuild their lives.

[2:05 p.m.]

It’s advice from family and friends like that that resulted in the prescribed alternatives

program that gets a nurse or a doctor between someone struggling with addiction and

a predatory drug dealer. We know it has saved lives. We know it has stabilized lives.

The Conservatives know that too, and their spokesperson has supported the program

in principle.

But that doesn’t mean that we tolerate diversion. We have taken steps with police

— this is how the opposition knows about the issue with these pharmacies — to investigate

bad pharmacies, to ensure that that information is shared with police for prosecutions,

to address issues of diversion.

Now the Health Minister has made an important but difficult announcement to move to

an exclusively witnessed program, which we know is going to make it harder for some

people to access this program that we know can save lives, but which we have to do

to address the issue of diversion.

The Speaker : Leader of the Official Opposition, supplemental.

John Rustad : It’s true that 16,328 people have lost their lives to overdose. That’s true. But

it’s also true that the safe supply program has put 22,416,000 doses into British

Columbia and an unknown number of those into the hands of criminal activity. The report

by this government shows that those are the facts.

These drugs, of course, are also not safe. They are actually very dangerous drugs

as well. The report clearly shows that this has been going on for years. The police

reports have shown that this diverted supply into the hands of criminals has been

going on for years, yet, as given in those quotes, this has been denied by this government.

The real question that the public is asking is: who knew in advance how bad this situation

was? When did they know about it? Quite frankly, the taxpayers want to know how much

of their money was wasted on drugs getting into criminals’ hands.

This is why the Premier must call a public inquiry and get answers to the public,

who demand to know how this government has been mistreating this file.

Hon. David Eby : The risk of pharmacies diverting opioids existed before the prescribed alternatives

program. It exists after. The entity within the Ministry of Health that was set up….

Interjection.

The Speaker : Members, the Premier has the floor.

Hon. David Eby : The entity within the Ministry of Health that was set up to investigate pharmacies

was set up in 2014 by the B.C. Liberal government because of issues related to the

diversion of opioids. Ensuring that that agency had the authority and was focusing

on pharmacies and the issue and the risk of diversion was a priority for us. We ensured

that they had the resources to do that.

It resulted in a very significant investigation, which they were briefing police on.

That’s how the opposition knows about this. It has resulted in criminal investigations

that are ongoing with the College of Pharmacists to shut down bad actors and the unfortunate

and difficult but necessary decision to move to a witnessed-only program, which we

know will compromise the access of people who need this program to stay alive. But

we have to do it to ensure that we are addressing the risk of diversion.

Elenore Sturko : The Premier and his government want you to believe that this is a problem with bad

pharmacies, that it’s bad actors. But this isn’t a problem with bad pharmacies; this

is a problem with bad policy. The bad actors are members of this government and bureaucrats

working under the supervision of this Premier, who have been gaslighting British Columbians

for more than two years.

After years of downplaying and denying the significant diversion of so-called safe

supply, the government’s own leaked presentation reports that their publicly funded

drug trafficking is widespread. Taxpayer-funded safe supply went from prescribing

577,000 pills in 2020 to more than 22 million pills and fentanyl patches in the last

two years. This is increasing the risk of population-level harms, with unknown quantities

being trafficked provincially, nationally and internationally.

The public has a right to know how this could happen. Now that the Premier recognizes

that his experiment has failed, when will he call a public inquiry?

[2:10 p.m.]

Hon. David Eby : I think it’s important to be clear. I canvassed this with the member for Surrey-Cloverdale

extensively in the estimates debates before the election. I acknowledged the risk

of diversion is a serious issue. We were taking steps to ensure diversion, if it was

taking place, was being addressed. It resulted in dedicating a team within the Ministry

of Health to investigate pharmacies, which is what the opposition has become aware

of. It has led to criminal investigations. It is a serious matter.

But on the issue of prescribed alternatives, I won’t let the member shrink from her

own record, because it’s important to recognize that there’s not a division in this

House about the need for this program. February 17, on CKNW, the member said: “Conservatives,

we know that there’s a role for these drugs to be used to help people, to be titrated

to other medications, to stabilize people.” Well, I agree entirely.

The unfortunate thing is that some people are going to lose access to this program

because of a difficult decision to move to witnessed ingestion only. That’s an unfortunate

thing, but it’s a necessary thing to address the issue of diversion.

The Speaker : Surrey-Cloverdale, supplemental.

Elenore Sturko : More gaslighting from a Premier who fails to recognize his own failed experiment.

For sure, there is a role for prescribed alternatives for drugs to help titrate and

stabilize, but we’re talking about a government program that has dumped millions of

pills into the hands of criminals and drug traffickers.

I first raised the issue of diversion in this chamber on February 9, 2023. That’s

more than two years ago. Two years of flooding this province with hydromorphone, a

highly addictive opioid five times more powerful than morphine. Two years of fueling

the fentanyl trade with program participants trading their dillies for street drugs.

Two years of taxpayer dollars being used to enrich criminal organizations, putting

money into the hands of drug dealers that have killed 49,000 Canadians.

British Columbians have the right to know: how did this happen? When will the Premier

call for a public inquiry?

Hon. David Eby : I’m sure the member didn’t do it intentionally, but she conflated the toxic street

drugs like fentanyl and carfentanil with the prescribed alternative program supervised

by nurses and doctors.

We’ve lost more than 16,000 people in the toxic drug crisis.

The prescribed alternative program, which I understood the member previously supported

when she said, “The government has introduced a safe supply where they’re giving hydromorphone

and other drugs, slow-release morphine. They give it to individuals to help them get

off illicit drugs, and that we need to continue exploring,” or when she said: “This

government was said to be exploring options for pharmaceutical alternatives to illicit

drugs, and that’s what they should be doing.” That’s October 26, 2023.

As recently as February, she supported the program. It’s an important…

Interjection.

The Speaker : Shhh, Member.

Hon. David Eby : …program to save lives. But that doesn’t mean that we tolerate….

Interjections.

The Speaker : Members.

The Premier will continue.

Hon. David Eby : That doesn’t mean that we tolerate diversion. To prevent diversion, we have to take

the unfortunate but necessary step of moving to a…

Interjections.

The Speaker : Members.

Premier.

Hon. David Eby : …witnessed-only program, which will restrict access to the program for some people

who are struggling with addiction, especially in rural areas. But we have to take

that step in order to ensure that the public is protected.

We’ll continue to support the ongoing police investigation and the college investigation

into these pharmacies as best we can.

Economy and Job Protection

Jeremy Valeriote : British Columbians are feeling alarmed and anxious, and with good reason. According

to Finance Ministry estimates, U.S. tariffs could lead to 124,000 job losses in B.C.

over the next three years.

The government’s main response to the tariff threat is a hasty plan to fast-track

18 mining and energy projects, including an LNG export terminal. The government estimates

these projects would create 8,000 jobs. That leaves 116,000 job losses unaccounted

for, a staggering number of jobs.

Grocery rebate or not, British Columbians are left wondering how this government will

support them during this time of uncertainty and how they will fortify our economy

so we’re less vulnerable to forces beyond our control.

[2:15 p.m.]

My question is for the Premier. What is the government’s plan to protect people’s

livelihoods in the short term and also to transform our economy to deliver clean prosperity

far into the future?

Hon. Brenda Bailey : Thank you to the member opposite for the question, and welcome to this House.

One of the first tasks I was charged with in becoming Finance Minister was to bring

forward the grocery rebate. We know there are people in British Columbia who are struggling

with affordability. We’ve taken many measures to support people in affordability.

But on November 25, when then-elect President Trump announced 25 percent tariffs across

the board to Canadian businesses, the world changed, and we cannot move forward with

the grocery rebate.

We will, however, continue to support British Columbians in so many ways, and we will

double down on the most important things for British Columbians: health care, education,

safe streets and ensuring that social services are available.

We are moving forward with growing our economy, and we’re doing it in many, many ways.

While we accelerate these important projects that we have brought forward, acceleration

doesn’t necessarily mean only getting to yes. Acceleration can also mean getting to

no, because we’re still keeping the vital, vital protection of environment and collaboration

with Indigenous peoples as our guiding light on these decisions. What we’re getting

rid of is death by maybe.

The Speaker : Leader of the Third Party, supplemental.

Indigenous Consultation and

Environmental Requirements for

Resource Development Projects

Jeremy Valeriote : The Premier suggested in January at a mineral exploration conference that this government’s

“hyper-focusing on things like Indigenous reconciliation” had pulled attention from

economic growth. Economic growth from resource extraction can’t happen without Indigenous

consultation. It’s the law.

While I recognize that 12 of 18 projects have Indigenous partnership, on February

7, the Tāłtān Nation released a statement saying it was “frustrated and surprised”

by the province’s announcement of projects to be fast-tracked, two of them in Tāłtān

territory.

On environmental assessment, the B.C. Oil and Gas Commission was frequently criticized

for being too friendly to industry, and a name change alone will not fix that.

How can British Columbians be assured that this government isn’t using the tariff

threat to push ahead with more conventional resource extraction at the expense of

Indigenous rights and critical environmental protections?

Hon. Christine Boyle : Thank you for a critically important question.

It’s an honour to get to speak to the partnerships that this government continues

to form with First Nations across the province in economic development as well as

in a whole range of efforts to improve the quality of life for First Nations and Indigenous

communities as well as all British Columbians.

The work that’s been done to move projects forward in light of the alarming threat

of tariffs includes, as folks in this House know, an important economic benefit for

First Nations and, in fact, a majority equity ownership by First Nations for a number

of those projects. Those partnerships continue to be a priority for this government.

Where there are difficult conversations, those are difficult conversations we’re showing

up to have, side by side, to figure out how we move forward together in this province.

The path to prosperity for British Columbians is in partnership with First Nations.

That’s a commitment we’ll continue to make.

Management of Safe Supply and

Diversion to Illicit Market

Claire Rattée : While this NDP Premier was saying that diversion wasn’t happening, his government

knew that the police were investigating. Then Minister of Mental Health and Addictions

said: “I would say again that I have not heard directly a concern from law enforcement

or seen evidence from law enforcement of safe supply being diverted.”

To the Premier, will he finally admit that the NDP’s safe supply program has failed

and that it has only fuelled B.C.’s drug crisis?

[2:20 p.m.]

Hon. David Eby : We work closely with police throughout this process, including with the RCMP, supporting

them with the resources that they need to be able to do these investigations, providing

them with information, including a briefing…

Interjections.

The Speaker : Members, there was no interruption when the question was asked. Let’s provide the

same courtesy when the answer is provided. Thank you.

Hon. David Eby : …to assist front-line officers in being able to identify diverted drugs.

I think that’s one of the reasons why, because we have been engaged in this work together,

the Association of Chiefs of Police issued a statement today stating that they recognize

the importance of harm reduction measures, including safe supply and addressing the

ongoing toxic drug crisis, and noting, with approval, the move by the province to

move to witnessed ingestion, saying: “It is equally essential that these programs

are structured in a way that prevents unintended consequences, including the illegal

redistribution of prescribed substances.”

We agree entirely. That’s why we’ve taken the step of moving to witnessed ingestion.

It is a challenging decision because we know it will limit access for some people

to the program, but it’s a necessary step. I’m glad to have the support of the police

in taking this step.

The Speaker : Member for Skeena, supplemental.

Claire Rattée : That really wasn’t an answer.

Fourteen years ago I was a homeless addict living on the Downtown Eastside, and I

can tell you that the people that are going to die today and tomorrow deserve better

than that answer.

The Speaker : I didn’t see any question in that. Thank you very much.

Let’s move on.

Rosalyn Bird : Fifty bags of drugs — 700 pills, including fentanyl, methadone, methamphetamines

and cocaine — of which, according to the Prince George RCMP, a significant portion

was diverted from safe supply. If the Premier had his way, the RCMP would not have

taken these drugs off the streets, as it was his government that put them on the street

in the first place.

When will this government stop being the dealer for B.C.’s drug-addiction crisis?

Hon. David Eby : That is completely false and regrettable.

It was when the Leader of the Opposition was in cabinet that drug dealers walked into

B.C. casinos with hockey bags full of money, with impunity. After repeated warnings

that that was happening, they refused to take action.

Interjection.

The Speaker : Member.

Hon. David Eby : Now we have unexplained wealth orders, in four different cases, being used against

people who have astonishing wealth with no apparent means of producing it. We seized

the Hell’s Angels’ clubhouses.

Interjections.

The Speaker : Shhh. Shhh, Members.

Members, come to order.

Hon. David Eby : Let me tell you. Since 2020, police have seized over 1,800 firearms, $20 million

in illegal cash and assets, and over 15,000 kilograms of illicit drugs and precursor

chemicals.

We’ve provided witness protection to people coming forward to provide evidence against

gangsters. It resulted in 80 different prosecutions of gangsters in this province,

successful prosecutions, putting gangsters behind bars — steps that the Leader of

the Opposition could have taken when he was on this side of the House.

So I urge the member to look into her own leader’s history before suggesting that

this side of the House has done anything except attack organized crime from day one.

Interjections.

The Speaker : Members.

Interjection.

The Speaker : Member, that’s enough.

Member.

Premier, conclude, please.

Hon. David Eby : From day one, hon. Speaker.

The Speaker : Prince George–Valemount, supplemental.

Rosalyn Bird : The Solicitor General and the Premier may remember Shaun Wright, the recently retired

superintendent from the Prince George RCMP detachment. He said criminalization is

“the most horrific failure of public policy.” Shaun Wright, PG Citizen , August 14, 2024.

The RCMP know that the NDP’s policies are a failure.

Does the Minister of Public Safety stand with the RCMP, and will he support the call

for a public inquiry into the safe supply now?

[2:25 p.m.]

Hon. Josie Osborne : I think what the public wants most to know is that we are doing everything we can

to save people’s lives during a time of a toxic drug crisis that has impacted thousands

of people. Not one person in this House, I bet, has not been touched by this crisis.

That’s why we’re taking every tool that we can, using it in a way that is evidence-based,

and is working to save people’s lives, like the prescribed alternatives program.

Today, as has already been canvassed and as the Premier has said, difficult decisions

were announced around how we can ensure the integrity of this program in a way that

keeps people safe — the people who are using prescribed alternatives and the people

living out in our communities. We’re keeping people safe together.

The public wants to know we’re doing everything we can. That is exactly what we’re

doing. We’re going to stay focused on that, not just through the prescribed alternatives

program and making the changes that we’ve announced today but by continuing to build

the spectrum of supports that people need — everything, everything from prevention

to treatment and recovery, building out that seamless system of recovery, to help

people in the best way possible.

Staffing Shortages

in Health Care System

Brennan Day : My question is directed to the Minister of Health.

Don Chamberlain, a resident of my riding, received the long-awaited call. A healthy

lung transplant lung was finally available. He rushed to Vancouver General Hospital

from the Island, late on a Friday night in February, only two weeks ago, only to have

his surgery cancelled at the last minute due to a lack of a perfusionist — another

casualty of B.C.’s chronic health care staffing crisis.

How many more British Columbians must suffer and how many more organs will be thrown

in the trash before this government fixes B.C.’s health care staffing shortages?

The Speaker : Before the Chair recognizes the Minister of Health, I want to caution all members

not to use any electronic devices during the question period. Thank you.

Hon. Josie Osborne : Thank you to the member for the question, and welcome to your new role as the critic

for seniors care and for rural health.

I know that my colleague from Courtenay-Comox cares just as much about the services

that people need and understands that we have a lot of work to do to strengthen our

public health care system. That’s exactly what we’re focused on. We know, in this

time of a global shortage of health care workers, that serious action needs to be

taken.

That’s exactly what we’re doing, by attracting and retaining more doctors, nurses

and health care workers than ever before; working to break down the barriers to get

internationally trained graduates working here in the province, delivering the care

that they were trained to do for people here; adding 128 seats to the UBC medical

school, distributed across the province; and a new medical school coming to Surrey,

focused specifically on training more family physicians here in this province.

There is a lot of work to do. But it is only by this work, concerted month after month,

year after year, that we are going to continue to build the health care system here.

It is showing progress. We are showing progress. We’ve attracted more doctors and

nurses than ever before, and we’re going to continue this work.

The Speaker : Member, supplemental.

Brennan Day : B.C. had 30 perfusionists in 2002. In a recent survey, 12 have left for the United

States, 38 percent aged 40 or younger have signalled their intent to leave the profession

in a short few years, and nearly 24 percent are planning on retiring in the next five.

In yesterday’s throne speech, this government committed to attracting talent from

the United States.

How does this minister plan to stop the brain drain and bring back the specialists

we need here in B.C. to save British Columbians’ lives?

Hon. Josie Osborne : Yes, it is incredibly frustrating for somebody who is going through the experience

like the member speaks of. That’s why we’ve got to continue the work to attract and

retain more doctors and specialists.

[2:30 p.m.]

That’s why we’re working with the college to reduce the barriers for people to practise

here in B.C. by making it possible for physicians from other parts of Canada to be

certified immediately and by working with the college to ensure that within six weeks

those specialists and physicians coming from comparable jurisdictions around the world

are able to practise here in B.C. That is work that we are doing right now, and we

are going to continue it.

Kootenay Lake Ferry Labour Dispute

Harman Bhangu : The Kootenay Bay–Balfour ferry strike has put local lives in absolute turmoil since

September. I have heard from countless people of a failing ferry service and the impact

on their lives — having to take a treacherous three-hour trip in the dark through

the Kootenay Pass. Yet, the member for Kootenay Central sits idly by and allows this

to happen without lifting a finger.

My question to the transport minister: why don’t the lives of the East Kootenay matter

to this government?

Hon. Jennifer Whiteside : Of course, I understand that people in the Kootenays do really rely on the ferry

system and that they are frustrated with the impacts of this situation. I have urged

both parties to be at the bargaining table, to work hard, diligently and with urgency

to end this dispute.

We know that negotiations are right now taking place between the operator and their

employees. Government is not at the table in these talks. We know that the most sustainable

and best outcomes in a negotiating process occur at the bargaining table.

Again, I am strongly urging the parties to be at the bargaining table to work with

urgency and diligence in resolving their collective agreement issues so that life

can get back to normal for people in the Kootenays.

Harman Bhangu : This strike….

The Speaker : Member. Member, wait. Wait.

Now you can start.

Harman Bhangu : This strike has cost people their jobs. A business owner lost $2,000 in one week

because people simply couldn’t get to him. Ten sailings have been scaled back to three.

A father cannot get his autistic son to medical appointments in Nelson. It’s very

critical. Early-age diagnosis goes a long way.

Again, to the minister: are you going to step in and act for the East Kootenay residents,

or will you continue and allow this chaos to reign in these communities?

The Speaker : Member, all questions must be asked through the Chair, not to the minister. Thank

you.

Hon. Jennifer Whiteside : Again, I understand how frustrating this situation is for people who are impacted

by this dispute. Again, the parties are currently at the table in negotiations, talking

with each other, working through their issues.

I think they understand the importance of resolving this situation for people in the

Kootenays. The Labour Relations Board has been working with the community and with

the parties to support a resolution to this bargaining dispute. I am, again, urging

all parties to ensure that they are at the table and working diligently to ensure

that this dispute is solved with urgency.

[End of question period.]

Point of Order

Elenore Sturko : I rise to address a point of personal privilege.

The Premier stated that I had conflated safe supply with fentanyl and carfentanil.

This is incorrect, and I would ask that the Premier withdraw his statement.

What I said was that it’s two years of fueling the fentanyl trade, because the program

that the government has been running has been allowing its participants to trade the

taxpayer-funded drugs on the street for street fentanyl, thusly driving the fentanyl

trade, putting money into the hands of criminals that have funded….

Interjections.

The Speaker : Member, thank you.

Elenore Sturko : I ask that the Premier please withdraw.

[2:35 p.m.]

The Speaker : Member, it sounded like a point of order, not a point of privilege. So it was a point

of order.

The Premier doesn’t have to answer right now if he doesn’t want to. We can deal with

it later.

Thank you. It was a point of order.

Tabling Documents

The Speaker : Hon. Members, I have the honour to table the following reports. There are quite a

few, so I need your patience.

The first ones are Auditor General — annual follow-up report, status of performance

audit recommendations, 2021-2022, May 2024; annual report, 2023-24, June 2024; Interim Report on the Examination of MNP’s Administration of the Advanced Research

and Commercialization Grant Program , June 2024; Final Report on the Examination of MNP’s Administration of the Advanced Research and

Commercialization Grant Program , August 2024.

Conflict of Interest Commissioner — annual report, 2023.

Elections B.C. — annual report and service plan, 2024-25–2026-27; and Report of the Chief Electoral Officer on the 2022 General Local Elections , October 15, 2022.

Human Rights Commissioner — Spreading Our Wings , annual report, 2023-24, and service plan 2024-25–2026-27.

Merit Commissioner — annual report, 2023-2024, “Upholding fair hiring in the B.C.

public service”; and merit performance audit report, December ’24.

Office of the Police Complaint Commissioner — 2023-2024 annual report.

Ombudsperson — 2023-2024 annual report; Public Interest Disclosure Act special report

No. 1, Hire Power: The Appointment of Eligible Candidates to the Temporary Assignments in

the Public Service , June 2024; special report No. 57, Under Inspection: The Hiatus in B.C. Correctional Centre Inspections , July 2024; and special report No. 58, Short-Changed: Ensuring Federal Benefits Paid to the Province Reach Caregivers of

Children with Disabilities , January 2025.

Registrar of lobbyists — determination decision 24-02, AbCellera Biologics Inc., designated

filer Carl Hansen, June 27, 2024; and determination decision 24-04, B.C. Chamber of

Commerce, designated filer Fiona Famulak, December 11, 2024.

Representative for Children and Youth — annual report, 2023-24, and service plan 2024-25–2026-27,

Amplifying Voices for Change; Don’t Look Away: How One Boy’s Story Has the Power to

Shift a System of Care for Children and Youth , July 2024, revised report; No Time to Wait: A Review of MCFD’s Child Welfare Workforce, Part One , July 2024; No Time to Wait: A Review of MCFD’s Child Welfare Workforce, Part Two , February 2025; and Too Many Left Behind: Ensuring Children and Youth with Disabilities Thrive , January 2025.

Reports from Committees

Selection Committee

Hon. Mike Farnworth : I have the honour to present the first report of this Special Committee of Selection

for the first session of the 43rd parliament, and I move that the report be taken

as read.

Motion approved.

[2:40 p.m.]

Hon. Mike Farnworth : I ask leave of the House to move a motion to adopt the report.

Leave granted.

The Speaker : Proceed.

Hon. Mike Farnworth : I move the report be adopted.

Motion approved.

Tabling Documents

Hon. Niki Sharma : I have the honour to present the Public Guardian and Trustee of British Columbia’s

annual report, 2023-24.

I also have the honour of presenting the annual report of the British Columbia Ferry

Commissioner for the fiscal year ending March 31, ’24.

Hon. George Chow : I have the honour to present the annual report of the chief records officer.

Hon. Randene Neill : I have the honour to present the annual report of the activities under the Drinking

Water Protection Act in B.C., 2022-2023, from the office of the provincial health

officer.

Orders of the Day

Hon. Mike Farnworth : In this chamber, I call address in reply to the throne speech.

[Lorne Doerkson in the chair.]

Deputy Speaker : Good afternoon, Members. We’re going to call this to order. For those of you enjoying

conversations, we’ll get you to take those into the hall. We’re going to have some

business to conduct here.

We’re going to call on the member for North Vancouver–Seymour to make the motion.

[2:45 p.m.]

Throne Speech Debate

Susie Chant : I move, seconded by the member for Surrey City Centre:

[That we, His Majesty’s most dutiful and loyal subjects, the Legislative Assembly

of British Columbia in session assembled, beg leave to thank Your Honour for the gracious

Speech which Your Honour has addressed to us at the opening of the present Session.]

I will continue with my remarks, if I may, Mr. Speaker.

Deputy Speaker : Please do.

Susie Chant : Thank you for the opportunity to speak in support of the 2025 throne speech.

As I begin, I acknowledge that I’m speaking on the lands of the lək̓ʷəŋən people, the Songhees and the Esquimalt in particular. I am always grateful for the

time that I spend here and for the opportunities that I have to learn about and work

towards real reconciliation that is meaningful and effective.

Additionally, I acknowledge with appreciation the səlilwətaɬ and Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Nations, on whose unceded land the riding of North Vancouver–Seymour is founded.

The ongoing stewardship of the land and water that those nations do is literally rehabilitating

the ecosystems of fish, of wildlife in the area and of both aquatic and land-based

flora. It has been my honour to witness the work being done thus far and to offer

appreciative recognition of the impact.

It is my privilege and honour to rise and speak to the throne speech opening the first

session of the 43rd parliament of the province of British Columbia. This session started

off in a good way, with reflections from Elder Frank George of the Songhees Nation

and Elder Mary-Ann Thomas of the Esquimalt First Nation. Thank you for your welcome

and your reminder to do our work with good feelings in our hearts.

The wonderful performance from the lək̓ʷəŋən traditional singers and dancers served to ground us as our deliberations begin. It

is therefore with great pleasure that I rise to support the throne speech and acknowledge

it for what it is: a roadmap to guide us through these uncertain times and a reflection

of how we have committed to working with and for the people of British Columbia and

will continue to do so.

I would first, however, like to thank my friends and family for enduring support and

encouragement. I am deeply grateful for the stalwart support from my husband, Rick;

my daughters, Lindsey and Nicole; my son-in-law, Troy; our friends Rebecca and Thomas;

as well as many other family members and friends.

I also wish to express gratitude to the people of North Vancouver–Seymour who have,

for the past four years, and now for another four, entrusted me with the role of representing

them and advocating on their behalf as their MLA. This role is significantly enhanced

by the work of my constituency office staff, who maintain exemplary service and support

daily for the public of our community. They ensure that people have access to speak

to me directly about their issues and concerns, as well as keeping me abreast of and

participating in meaningful events. It truly takes a team of diverse talent to work

for a community, a ministry and a province.

I also wish to thank the constituents who reach out with questions, concerns, complaints,

solutions and gratitude. This open flow of communication is essential to democratic

governance and bonds us together in real time. We see our constituency office as a

community office, also serving as a venue for art displays, showcasing local artists;

a meeting spot for guiding units as they explore politics and leadership; and a place

of celebration and connection for our monthly book club.

The backbone of that office are my staff: Stephen Tweedale; Michael Charrois; Graham

Assels; and our new youth outreach coordinator, Lena McLachlan. They are all dedicated

to the well-being of the people who email, telephone or visit, as well as those we

meet as we do outreach and attend a variety of events in the community.

As always, and again, I thank the steadfast volunteers that enabled myself and my

office staff to reach out in a diverse variety of ways to our constituents. These

folks provide me with continued stamina to do the work to which I am fully engaged.

My gratitude also goes out to the members of the səlilwətaɬ Nation, who are ever patient in the work that we do together. Chief Jen Thomas and

her husband, Calvin, embody the very concept of service to their community in every

way.

I extend my gratitude to the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Nation for bringing me on as part of their group, as my boundaries changed this year

and included a Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Nation village.

I sincerely applaud the work done for the people in the province of British Columbia

by the outgoing Lieutenant Governor, Janet Austin, and thank her for her seven years

of dedicated service. Her strong voice and advocacy for those who may not have the

same capacity, opportunity or ability to make effective change for themselves will

always be a reminder that that is why we serve.

[2:50 p.m.]

I offer a sincere welcome to our 31st Lieutenant Governor, Her Honour Wendy Cocchia,

and her husband, His Honour Sergio Cocchia. As expressed in her January 30 swearing-in

speech, the new Lieutenant Governor’s dedication to the power of compassion, call

to service and perseverance to create a better world are core values that we can all

get behind and that the Legislature will be better for.

Welcome to Her Honour.

In 2023, I was provided with the new opportunity of the role of Parliamentary Secretary

legislation established in B.C.

Much of that work has already seen positive impacts in education, housing, citizen

services, B.C. Parks, tourism and post-secondary schools. Health care, education,

accommodation, transportation, recreation, vocation, vacation and so many other things

should be inclusive for all. These are goals that we want for everyone in B.C., and

I will continue to work towards their achievement.

During that time, I also got to be part of the progression of steps that brought the

amazing Invictus Games to Vancouver-Whistler, from the announcement that the four

nations would be hosting — Lil̓wat7úl , Sḵwx̱wú7mesh, səlilwətaɬ and xʷməθkʷəy̓əm — through the funding announcements from federal and provincial governments and the

partnerships with business sponsors to the opening ceremonies and then the games themselves

and the athletes who brought their all, supported by families and friends, from 23

nations.

Wounded and ill service members and former service members participated in such sports

as wheelchair rugby and basketball, seated volleyball, fixed-position rowing, swimming

and a variety of winter sports for the first time at the Whistler Olympic site.

The four host nations were fully involved, from designing the emblem and the medals

and holding a blanketing ceremony for all 550 participants to providing athletes house

or home within the Vancouver Convention Centre and in Whistler.

I spoke to a young woman who had medalled in the skeleton event. She was from England

and had practised by lying on a yoga mat on the floor. I asked her if she’d done a

trial run and she shrugged and said: “No, I just went for it.” Wow.

The Invictus Games have a component of competition, but of greater significance is

the camaraderie and the shared journey of healing through sport that each person has

experienced. I know that the games will continue to provide that support for service

people to rehabilitate and rebuild their lives. It is another way that the communities

and countries can celebrate their serving men and women, their veterans and those

families and friends who support them.

Since being recently appointed by Premier Eby to the role of Parliamentary Secretary

for Seniors’ Services and Long-Term Care in the Ministry of Health, I have been busy

meeting with stakeholders and organizations to hear their concerns and identify needs

for seniors. I’m excited to execute my mandate, to engage with service providers,

advocates and seniors to identify opportunities for improving seniors’ lives across

the province.

Working within the Ministry of Health, I will continue to implement and deliver services

to seniors in a person-centric, cost-effective way that promotes and preserves dignity.

As a registered nurse, I find that this work is a very good fit, and it is very easy

to see where progress has been made.

I am also honoured to assume the role of parliamentary liaison with the Consular Corps,

a position that has quickly broadened my knowledge about the international community

that forms a significant portion of our communities.

It is reassuring to recognize that friendship and allyship that is shared in our common

interests of trade, economic growth, cultural exchange and the support of people in

general. It was a delight to meet with a group of consuls yesterday as they shared

the pageantry and gravitas of the throne speech.

Many steps were taken in 2024 to make B.C. a place that everyone can call home, a

B.C. where you can hold a job that provides a livable wage, afford your housing, feel

safe from violence, feel assured that your access to food and water is secure and

that you are covered by health care in an environment that supports future generations.

We have focused on affordability, child care, housing, health care, public safety,

reconciliation, climate change, mental health and addiction, community safety and

gender equity. And always, there is more to be done.

All these areas are being addressed through an overarching lens of establishing, supporting

and sustaining government-to-government relationships with the Indigenous people of

B.C. In 2025, we will continue that work.

[2:55 p.m.]

Our government strives in so many ways to hear from the people of our province to

determine needs, gaps and oversights, and, as well, to recognize areas that may have

been addressed. However, more is needed. We also want to celebrate the many great

initiatives, projects and progress that is steadily being made in the communities

throughout B.C.

Last week in my community, a new hospital tower was opened that has been over ten

years in the planning and implementation. State-of-the-art pre-, intra- and post-surgical

units that are designed to maximize the recovery of patients, including their families.

Exquisite Indigenous art is found on each floor, and there is a space for culturally

appropriate activities such as smudging and cedar brushing. A rooftop garden is planted

with over a dozen native species and is available to patients, families and staff

to get into fresh air and enjoy the mountain views or the cityscape.

Many communities throughout B.C. are also seeing the start, progression or completion

of important infrastructure, such as schools, clinics and hospitals. In the spirit

of collaboration, our government will continue to reach out to stakeholders in order

to work together in making plans and decisions to ensure the right voices are at the

table to address goals and impact.

Ministries continue to work together to recognize and address the needs of the people

of British Columbia. Thus, the throne speech provides a strong and flexible base for

the government and legislators to reference as they continue to work with representatives

and constituents to strengthen and enhance the everyday lives of people living in

British Columbia.

Affordability, of course, is a prime concern in B.C. and holds true in North Vancouver–Seymour

as well. Since July of 2024, eligible families with kids are receiving up to $3,563

per year through the B.C. family benefit credits. On the electricity bill, up to $100

for households and $400 for businesses has accrued over the course of the year.

To further assist hard-working families in the struggle against high child care costs

and the rising cost of living, the province has thus far created 300 spaces since

2019, under the $10-a-day child care program, in my riding, including spaces at Tsleil-Waututh

Child and Family Development Centre, Capilano University and the Parkgate Society.

We’ve also opened a before- and after-school care program at École Dorothy Lynas Elementary,

the first of its kind in North Vancouver–Seymour.

The target of 15,000 spots across B.C. by the end of 2024 was exceeded, and we are

currently on track towards the next goal, giving families in our community and yours

a break on monthly expenses. In fact, investments into child care in North Vancouver–Seymour

total $51.5 million since 2019, reducing fees for over 130,000 child care spaces by

up to $900 a month per child.

With an eye towards B.C.’s future, significant investments have been made in the education

of our children so that they all have a safe and accessible place to learn. Scheduled

for completion in March of 2025 is the centre for childhood studies on the Capilano

University campus. Funded in part by the province, this two-storey child care facility

will have laboratories, classrooms, study spaces and admin space in support for the

early childhood education program.

We’re also expanding, upgrading and building more schools for our kids, including

a $9 million investment to increase capacity at Lynn Valley Elementary School. The

new Argyle Secondary School, which was built seismically sound, will better support

our students for years to come. At Lynnmour Elementary, a fully accessible playground

has been put in place so that all children can be outside and play together.

Part of the commitment of affordability is improvement to infrastructure and access

to functional public transit. In May of 2024, a major construction upgrade on the

Phibbs Exchange was completed in part from the province’s $18.8 million investment.

Linking directly to the Iron Workers Memorial Bridge, it connects North Vancouver

to East Vancouver and Burnaby, while also being a short distance to Capilano University,

North Shore Studios and a park-and-ride facility. The exchange now boasts 13 new bus

bays, seven new bike lockers and rain garden landscaping to improve drainage.

[3:00 p.m.]

Major safety improvements were made to the bus loop, including enhanced lighting for

riders as well as drivers navigating the highly populated hub. Safety measures also

included emergency call buttons for clients.

Since the creation of the community emergency preparedness fund in 2023, the North

Shore has received over $1.6 million towards emergency preparedness, including evacuation

route plans, flood hazard maps and disaster risk planning.

In 2024, North Shore Restorative Justice received $375,000 to ensure their capacity

to support their members through developing and providing training on restorative

practices.

We know that the housing crisis in B.C. is hurting people, challenging us all and

holding back our economy. We have taken this challenge and met it head-on so that

all members of our community have a safe and accessible place to live. We’re delivering

diverse housing options for the community, including more affordable rental options

being built on Old Lillooet Road, and the supportive housing being built on East Keith

Road.

We have thus far invested $29 million to support important infrastructure upgrades,

through the growing communities fund, to local municipalities and regional districts.

In February of 2024, we announced that 180 new middle-income affordable homes are

being funded at 225 East Second Street, supported by the BC Builds fund.

Due for completion in the summer of 2025, we’re building housing for students at Capilano

University, investing $41.5 million to accommodate 362 students, staff and families

at Capilano University, for its first on-campus housing. This six-storey building,

constructed with mass timber, will be complete with a 250-seat dining hall; a green

roof; bike storage; offices and a café; a First Nations reflection space; and essential

laundry, study, lounge and kitchen areas.

This access to on-campus student housing simply means more time spent on learning

and less time spent commuting. It means students can build community with their peers

that extends to the classroom and into the dining hall, while also reducing pressure

on the housing stock and traffic congestion on the North Shore.

On to health care — near and dear to my heart. British Columbia is an extraordinary

place, with dedicated doctors, nurses and care teams who take pride in delivering

quality health care to patients.

We recognize that the need to expand health services in our province was overdue in

2017, when our B.C. NDP government started. That’s exactly why we got to work right

away to bring people better health care.

As I said previously, I was honoured to be part of the opening of the new state-of-the-art

Paul Myers Tower at Lions Gate Hospital. The new acute tower will modernize community

health services for people across the North Shore, with 108 beds and 84 single rooms

for pre-operative, operative and post-operative care.

An urgent primary care centre on West Esplanade provides service for people with non-life-threatening

conditions who need a same-day health care provider to keep them out of the emergency

room.

The Foundry centre on the North Shore ensures that young people have access to services

like crisis supports; wraparound services; enhanced transition services; and improved

emergency room, hospital-based care and discharge planning. The Foundry utilizes culturally

safe and trauma-informed practices and resources to reflect the diversity of the client

population.

The peer-assisted care teams, which were initially piloted in North Vancouver by the

Canadian Mental Health Association, are now found in many communities across the province,

providing additional mental health response options for families and individuals to

access.

Car programs, in which a mental health clinician goes out with the police on calls

that may involve aspects of mental health or addiction, have been either initiated

or enhanced in multiple areas.

Treatment beds are built and being built for detoxification, rehabilitation and ongoing

therapy so that when a person is dealing with addiction and is willing to try and

get off substances, there is a door that is open and ready to receive them.

Indigenous communities, likewise, are creating healing centres so that community members

have a place that is appropriate and sensitive to their own culture, where assessment

and treatment can be done in a manner that is effective and inclusive.

[3:05 p.m.]

Our North Van Car program combines an RCMP member with a mental health clinician for

calls, reducing the time spent by police trying to determine what are the best next

steps.

Additionally, a respite centre to offer relief to caregiving families is in the making,

expected to open in early 2025. The future also holds a supportive housing unit in

North Van, another step towards assisting unhoused folks who have multiple comorbidities,

including mental health challenges, addictions, head injuries and other circumstances

that require more than just a roof over their head and regular meals.

Many steps have been taken across the board to strengthen and rebuild our system of

health care. In nursing, over 600 new seats have been opened so that B.C. can increase

the number of nurses graduating from our own training programs.

Work has been done with the college, union and professional bodies to speed up the

process for simplification of the legislation, to get internationally trained nurses

qualified and registered to practise so they can join our workforce. These nurses

bring their own sets of skills, cultural knowledge and languages with them, enhancing

the diversity and breadth of the care offered to our patients. Additionally, financial

support is being made available, as the cost of the process to qualify here, historically,

has been a barrier for many, who would eventually give up on nursing as their career.

Nurse practitioners and registered nurses are working at the full scope of practice,

providing specialized care in a whole variety of areas, including management of addictions

and substance use.

Last year I extolled the Canopy clinic, located in the same plaza as my constituency

office. It is the first clinic in Canada to be solely staffed by nurse practitioners

and midwives. They now have onboarded more than 1,500 new patients, who were formerly

without a family practitioner. This pioneering, adaptive and nimble health care model

leads the way for others to establish similar practices and think creatively about

how to address the growing health care needs of our communities.

Family doctors are embracing the new longitudinal funding mechanism that recognizes

the complexity and cost of running a general practice. Over 700 more family doctors

are now practising in B.C. than this time last year.

Education funding for paramedics is now available, with a greater emphasis on people

training and working in their local communities, while more ambulances with greater

shift coverage and regular staffing models are in place.

Our government also made it easier for folks to get the everyday care they need at

their local pharmacy. Increasing the scope of practice for pharmacists to allow them

to prescribe for minor ailments and to renew prescriptions has had an immense benefit

in decreasing visits to GPs. This has freed up appointment times with family physicians

and care providers to spend time with patients who have more complex needs.

Also, the new availability of free contraception in offices has provided women and

families with increased savings and enhanced capacity to manage more closely their

bodies and their lives.

Overall, new hospitals are being built, new technologies are being implemented, and

legislation is being updated to reflect the current and future health care of our

province. It will continue to improve with work, collaboration and willingness on

the part of all of us.

As the new Parliamentary Secretary for Seniors and Long-Term Care, there are many

aspects of seniors care that I can also highlight. My portfolio includes advocating

for seniors and making sure that they get the health care services they need, when

they need them.

The demand for primary care, home health, long-term care and assisted living is growing,

along with our seniors population. So is the focus on healthy aging, recognizing the

importance of exercise, healthy eating and maintaining social connections, to live

our best lives as we age. That’s why this government is adding more nurses, social

workers, physical therapists, occupational therapists and home support workers to

better support seniors.

A great example is the health career access program, which supports individuals while

they enter the workforce. Through funding for training and wages, health care workers

are prepared to work in community, long-term and acute care, as part of a multidisciplinary

team.

In fact, this program has been extremely successful in hiring more than 9,500 people

since its inception in 2020. Through these efforts, people in B.C. will see improved

overnight response, more regular contact with their care manager and more nimble provision

of care needs that arise unexpectedly.

We are also expanding and evolving community-based programs such as Better at Home,

the therapeutic activation program for seniors, and the family and friend caregiver

support program.

[3:10 p.m.]

These programs will help improve the quality of seniors’ lives through access to services,

as well as providing coaching, counselling and education to family and friends as

caregivers.

The Hospital at Home program, which has been expanded to seven hospitals, offers daily

in-person or virtual visits from doctors or nurses to help patients heal and recover

in the comfort of their own home.

We also have our long-term care at home pilot program to provide virtual support from

a long-term-care facility to check vitals and monitor for falls, activity levels and

medication adherence in a person’s own home.

We are helping people in B.C. to age with dignity closer to home and nearer their

loved ones, whether it’s at home receiving community supports or in assisted living

or in long-term care. We are listening, adapting and constantly evaluating how to

provide support for our loved ones, our neighbours and our community members who are

seniors.

Our goal continues to be to support seniors to live at home, where they’re most comfortable,

as long as possible without compromising their safety and care needs and to ensure

they have access to long-term-care homes when they need them, homes that continue

to provide safe and effective care, support family and friend involvement and maintain

community connections for the residents. That is why we are building 11 long-term-care

centres throughout the province, including in Campbell River, Kelowna, Penticton and

Richmond.

Our government is taking strong actions to better support seniors and their families,

and we’re not stopping there. We will continue working with our community partners

to improve and increase services, recruiting and training more people and building

more long-term-care homes so that we can meet the growing need for seniors care in

our province.

As the Parliamentary Secretary for Seniors and Long-Term Care, it is my honour to

work with seniors around our province to help improve services and make them available

when and where they are needed.

The seniors population in B.C. continues to grow, and it is expected that almost 22

percent of people in British Columbia will be 65 and older by 2035-36, en route to

a ratio of about one in five. Some of us are already there. Just saying.

To meet the growing demand over the past five years, our government has invested approximately

$2 billion to expand and improve quality care for seniors in B.C., including in priority

areas such as long-term care, home health, senior services and primary care.

The 2024 budget provided more than $354 million over three years to expand community-based

senior services and home health services to support more seniors to live safely in

their homes longer. This included $227 million to improve the quality of home health

services for seniors by adding more health care workers to the workforce. The province

is in the process of adding more than 900 new health care providers over three years

to support seniors to live at home longer, including more than 400 full-time-equivalent

positions for community-based professional services and more than 500 full-time-equivalents

for community health workers.

As well, funding was invested to stabilize and expand high-demand services that operate

provincewide for seniors. These services provide seniors with non-medical support,

including assistance with day-to-day tasks, and deliver programs that help keep seniors

physically active, socially engaged and connected to their communities.

The increased funding announced in Budget 2024 has also enabled the basket of services

provided to seniors through Better at Home to expand and provide greater emphasis

on social connection. Better at Home is a community-based program, funded by the provincial

government and managed by United Way B.C., providing seniors with access to non-medical

home support services, such as grocery shopping, light housekeeping, light yard work,

snow shovelling, minor home repairs, transportation to appointments and friendly visiting

to help people stay independent longer in their own homes and connected to their communities.

New services being added include support with referral and system navigation, peer

support, expanded group activities, social meals and more flexible transportation

options.

Three other community-based seniors programs are also expanding. The family and friend

caregiver support program, therapeutic activation program for seniors and social prescribing.

[3:15 p.m.]

Over the next two years, the number of community connector positions in B.C. will

increase from 19 to 90 connectors across the province. These positions are integral

to supporting seniors who are frail, or at risk for frailty, to develop health and

wellness plans and then connecting those seniors to the community programming and

health services that meet their needs.

To improve collaboration and communication between residents, family members, long-term

staff and management, resident and family councils have been implemented as a component

of care facilities, with regular meetings at the provincial and regional levels.

While we have taken significant steps to ensure we’re comprehensively prepared to

take care of our elders as they deserve, there is still work to do on the cohesiveness

of the health care system in B.C. We must strive to re-evaluate the models we use,

enact social support networks in all communities, explore alternative models of housing

and improve communication across multiple organizations.

We must pivot in our decision-making and stay nimble and adaptable for creative change.

In the coming year, our government will continue to do the good work that puts people

of our province first by making things that matter better for people.

I am honoured to be representing the community of North Vancouver–Seymour, with its

magical natural beauty, its bustling commercial activity and the people who work hard,

play hard and support each other.

I will take this opportunity to thank Her Honour for the words that laid out the initial

blueprint for this session of the Legislature to work with. I look forward to collaborating

with my colleagues on both sides of the House to achieve progress on many fronts and

to develop new initiatives that address issues important to the people of British

Columbia.

With that, Mr. Speaker, I conclude my remarks.

Deputy Speaker : Just as a reminder, we’ll refrain from referring to any of the members of this place

by name. Please just refer to them as their ministry or their riding.

Now we’ll call for a seconder.

Amna Shah : I rise to second the motion that “We, His Majesty’s most dutiful and loyal subjects,

the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia in session assembled, beg leave to thank

Your Honour for the gracious speech which Your Honour has addressed to us at the opening

of the present session.”

If you will permit, Mr. Speaker, I will continue with my remarks.

Deputy Speaker : Please do.

Amna Shah : I am pleased to rise in response and support of the throne speech.

Before I begin, I congratulate you, Mr. Speaker, on your election to your new role,

and I wish you the best.

I also congratulate all elected members in this House on their election and re-election.

I look forward to working with every member in service of our great province.

I would not be here without the trust and the confidence of the people of Surrey City

Centre, and for that support, I am grateful. I’m proud to serve Surrey City Centre,

a riding which is a diverse mosaic of rich culture and incredible history.

Surrey City Centre is a blend of industry and small business, and it is a hub for

professional excellence. As a matter of fact, we have some of the most talented professionals,

I would argue, in this province.

Much like the rest of the city of Surrey, our population is growing at an unprecedented

rate, with families who actively choose to live and play in this exciting riding.

And exciting it is.

On the traditional territory of the qʼʷa:n̓ƛʼən̓, the q̓ic̓əy̓ and the SEMYOME First Nations, the people of my riding respect the history of those

who were here before us and those who settled afterwards.

Surrey City Centre is home to city hall and Holland Park, which are often the places

where we host some of the best events that this province has to offer. The riding

is also home to the training grounds of the B.C. Lions, the community-enriching Whalley

Little League, and a suite of other groups and organizations which regularly remind

me why I’m so lucky to contribute positively to my community and represent them in

this House.

[3:20 p.m.]

I could be here for days if I were to talk about the amount of organizations and community

groups in my riding that serve our community. Often in the social services sector,

their jobs, their volunteer hours are much needed, much required, but they face a

heavy burden with the amount of effort they put into our community. We thank them

for some of that unpaid labour they do in the efforts of making our community a better

place.

It is a privilege and an honour to have the opportunity to speak in this mighty House,

and I acknowledge there are not many who have had or will have such an opportunity.

I stand proud to be the first Muslim woman elected to the B.C. Legislature. At the

same time, I feel the weight of the responsibility that this carries, a responsibility

which I take very seriously because I know its significance not just for our community

right now in this province but for many Muslims to come in the future of this province.

This is significant for our province’s Muslim community because we understand the

importance of being represented at the tables where decisions about us are made. We

have a rich history in this province. We have contributed and we continue to contribute

in many different ways to this province, enriching not just its history but its current

society.

I sincerely hope that this is the beginning of many more just like me. I’d like to

tell everybody in my community and beyond that there is no shortage of skilled, talented,

amazing individuals from my community who I know would be ready and willing to take

an opportunity to lead this province.

It has taken much to get here, and my story, like many of my other colleagues…. Our

journeys are a testament to what is possible in this great province and the greatest

country on earth.

I moved to Canada with my family at the tender age of 14, with big hopes in my heart

and big dreams in my mind. I was ready to give all of myself to establish a better

life here in Canada, just like my parents, just like my sister and my brother.

It certainly did take a lot of ourselves as we hit the solemn realization that things

were much harder than we anticipated. Our dreams were definitely a bit more out of

reach than we had initially thought.

As I watched my family work through the challenges with the strength and the appreciation

of all the good that hard work will bring not just to them but to their kids, my baseline

was being set. My perspectives were being shaped by their example. My attitude was

being formed, the attitude that has guided me through life.

It was then that I began to appreciate the challenge, the adversity, because regardless

of if I acknowledged that challenge, regardless of if I ignored it, it would still

be there. More often than not it was difficult, painful at times, but the challenges

became opportunities.

The lesson for me here is the lesson for civilizations of the centuries. You may live

to thrive, or you may just strive to survive. Regardless, leave this world a little

better for the next one in line. This is one of the lessons which has driven me in

all my work and my community service.

Along the way, I was supported by champions who encouraged and guided me to be the

best version that I could be for myself and my community.

[3:25 p.m.]

I would not be here without the support of my parents. They are my inspiration, my

guides and my constant source of support and comfort. My parents left a lot behind

to give their children the best opportunity that life could afford, and I will always

be indebted to their sacrifices — to pick up, leave their extended family behind,

move across the world and come to a country where they did not know anybody. It takes

a lot of strength to do something like that.

My sister and my brother, who are the best friends that any sibling could ask for,

are my relentless givers of encouragement. They believed in me in times where I could

not even believe in myself.

My family is a living example of resiliency, the resiliency which I draw from when

the going gets tough.

To them, I say: thank you, even though these two words can hardly encompass the enormity

of my gratitude.

As it is known, I have been elected in a seat which was long held by former MLA Bruce

Ralston, a man of exceptional accomplishment, both in his professional aspirations

and also in his service to the community. Bruce has been dedicated to this riding

since he was first elected in 2005, and his contributions to our community are rightfully

celebrated.

As you may recall, Mr. Speaker, Bruce has held many roles, including as a city councillor,

including many roles in this chamber, whether it be in opposition, whether it be in

government. But his steadfast commitment to his home riding, at the time called Surrey-Whalley,

was unparalleled, and it shows in the community.

We can still see Bruce strolling across our major roadways, because he likes to walk

everywhere. I can’t think of a better leader who likes to embrace and steep themselves

in the community by walking along, meeting, greeting and just talking to the people

of our amazing riding.

I thank Bruce for his mentorship and his confidence as I navigated my path to election.

His efforts helped me get elected, and his counsel has made me thoughtful in my efforts

to serve my community.

I also thank the member for Surrey-Guildford, a mentor who I have had the pleasure

of knowing for almost a decade. The member has been a constant source of wisdom and

encouragement to help me tackle the challenges that my professional life has brought

and what, generally, life has brought.

I am truly appreciative of the contrarian perspectives of the member for Surrey-Guildford,

which have challenged my own way of thinking, helping me realize that issues and solutions

cannot always be reduced to black and white, printed on paper, and that life is far

more beautifully complex than it may seem. We make exceptions to the rule. Everyone

has a story, and we respect that story.

I also give thanks to the team that got me elected, including my campaign team, the

dedicated volunteers who put in countless hours of work with their heartfelt dedication.

I thank my campaign manager, Michael Cheevers, for his exceptional leadership guiding

my team.

I also thank Pavit Sidhu, Patrick Meehan, Mariam Naqvi and Priyanka Krishna, who worked

day in and day out to ensure that our campaign was successful and, more importantly,

that it was a campaign driven by people for the people of Surrey City Centre.

Being newly elected, of course, our work in our day-to-day lives is not possible without

the people who work in our offices, in our constituency offices. So I want to thank

them for all of their hard work now and, in advance, for all of their hard work in

the future.

[3:30 p.m.]

I want to thank my constituency assistants, Ayush Saini and Guneet Pooni. These two

young, dynamic individuals are the future of our province, and when I look at them,

when I look at their innovative ideas, I feel confident that we are on the right path

and that our future is exceptionally hopeful.

As I embark on this journey to serve the people of Surrey City Centre and the people

of this province, I want to recognize the commendable work done by this government,

which has always put people at the heart of all its business.

British Columbia is an extraordinary place with dedicated doctors, nurses and care

teams who take pride in delivering quality health care to patients. As the new Parliamentary

Secretary for Mental Health and Addictions, I’m grateful for the opportunity to deliver

services to those battling addictions and also seeking treatment.

The pandemic and recent climate emergencies have taken a toll on our collective mental

health. At the same time, the toxic drug crisis has worsened, becoming even more complex.

Substances have become more unpredictable, more poisonous, more deadly. The consequences

have been devastating for families and communities across B.C.

While it’s encouraging to see that toxic drug deaths are trending down, we know that

there is still so much work to do. One death is one death too many. Too many lives

are still being cut short, and every death is a devastating loss to the families,

friends and whole communities left behind, forever changed and scarred.

Last year alone 2,253 people died in B.C. from poison drugs. These are not just numbers.

They are people who mattered, who were loved and whose absence is deeply felt. At

the heart of this crisis is the need to treat addiction, because we know that addiction

is a health issue, and it should be treated as such. Addiction is deeply connected

to poverty, homelessness, trauma and mental health struggles. If we are serious about

saving lives, we must address these root causes.

Prevention and early intervention are key to breaking the cycle, especially for young

people. As a student myself who has graduated from this education system in this province,

I remember being profoundly impacted by speakers who came to our school to explain

to us the dangers of toxic drugs on our street, the dangers of becoming isolated,

being preyed upon by those who want to treat you as money bags, who want to use you

to spread chaos in our communities, all for dirty money.

For us, prevention and early intervention is exceptionally important. Breaking that

cycle is key, and that’s why we are expanding Foundry youth health centres and integrated

child and youth teams throughout the province. Investing in young people’s mental

health today prevents crises tomorrow.

We’re also building a seamless system of mental health and addictions care, one that

meets people where they are and supports them at every stage of their journey so that

when people reach out for help, the support they need is there. We’re expanding overdose

prevention services, supervised consumption sites, drug checking, prescribed alternatives.

These services keep people alive, giving them a chance to connect to care and find

a path forward. You have to be alive to seek help, and the only way to seek help is

if you can trust those who care for you.

[3:35 p.m.]

We have an amazing team of health care professionals across this province who deliver

treatment to those who need it when they need it. We know that saving a life is just

the first step. When someone is ready for treatment, they deserve options that actually

work for them. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to recovery. As there are many

paths into addiction, there must be just as many ways out. This is why we are expanding

treatment and recovery supports in every health authority throughout B.C.

Since 2017, we’ve opened more than 700 new substance use beds across the province,

bringing the total to over 3,700. Last year more than 5,300 people received live-in

treatment and recovery support, which is 1,100 more than the previous year. There

are providers in my community which do exceptional work supporting recovery, especially

of young men who have found themselves in the predicament of addiction.

We are growing the Road to Recovery model, where care is coordinated, transitions

are seamless, and people get the right support no matter how many times it takes.

We’re also making it easier for people to get immediate help. The opioid treatment

access line now provides same-day access to opioid treatment medications, helping

people manage withdrawal, reduce cravings and lower the risk of drug poisoning. For

those seeking mental health support, we’ve expanded low- and no-cost counselling,

because getting help shouldn’t depend on what’s in your bank account.

While we’ve made progress, we know there is still so much more to do. There is still

so much more to understand. This government is working with community partners to

do exactly that. We will continue working hard every day to ensure that people get

the care that they need without barriers and without judgment.

The Speech from the Throne was delivered as British Columbians face an unprecedented

threat of unjustified tariffs, which really amount to economic warfare. We here in

B.C. are better equipped than most provinces to withstand this threat, but make no

mistake: we will be severely impacted. I’m talking about thousands of jobs, thousands

of lives impacted, short-term, long-term.

The throne speech thoughtfully laid out our plan to defend our province and British

Columbians from the impacts of Trump’s presidency. Once again, British Columbians

are at the heart of this plan because to us, British Columbians are the most important

part of this equation. We recognize that British Columbians are our greatest, our

most precious resource.

There are constituents in my riding who are actually a testament to the resiliency

of our fellow British Columbians, from business owners who have withstood the test

of economic uncertainty to health care workers who tirelessly worked to keep us safe

during a worldwide pandemic and building trades workers who continue to build our

province come hail or heat. These are examples of the hard-working, resilient British

Columbians who are ready to meet this moment, looking out and caring for each other.

We are standing up to defend our industries, good-paying jobs and workers every step

of the way. We’re getting critical infrastructure built faster and keeping our economy

growing. We’re creating good jobs in our growing economy, fast-tracking major projects

and continuing to build on our strengths.

[3:40 p.m.]

We’re strengthening access to health care, connecting more people to family doctors

and building new hospitals, including in my own riding of Surrey City Centre.

As I mentioned, the population in Surrey City Centre has grown exponentially in the

last few years, and the response from this government is not only to build a new hospital

in the city of Surrey but also to build a new acute care tower right in my riding

of Surrey City Centre, at Surrey Memorial Hospital.

It doesn’t end there. These may be short-term solutions, although they do benefit

everybody in the long term, but we’re thinking ahead. We’re thinking ahead by ensuring

that we can supplement these hospitals and these facilities with an exceptional workforce.

That includes launching our new medical school at Simon Fraser University, in my riding.

That is going to highlight the immense talent, the brilliance that we have in this

province, of our youth.

When we’re talking about education, again, in my riding of Surrey City Centre, we’re

building new schools. We’re expanding on new schools, at Forsyth elementary school.

We’re also finding unique and innovative ways to expand spaces in which children can

learn. That includes prefab modelling. That includes different ways in which we can

uniquely structure buildings so that students can learn in a structure where they

feel at home.

Housing has been an incredibly challenging thing to encompass just because of the

need from our communities for those to own a home or to rent a stable place to call

home. That’s why this government has been cutting red tape to speed up the process

of development. If you want to build a home, there is no need for there to be unnecessarily

long waits to get your home permitted, to stall development. We saw there were opportunities

where we could make a difference so that our people could get into homes faster.

Also, trying to ensure that we are coming up with innovative housing solutions — whether

it’s tiny homes or whether it’s multifamily, multigenerational living arrangements

— so that families can feel like a family. Grandparents can either be just down the

street or just up the stairs in a multi-unit dwelling arrangement for families.

The benefits of such an arrangement are something that I have partially grown up in

as well, with my grandparents, with my uncles and my aunts. It really gives meaning

when we say that it takes a community to raise a child. I can’t think of any more

benefits than the happiness that comes with being raised in a multigenerational household.

It’s important for our government to continue ensuring timely housing for British

Columbians by cracking down on speculators — speculators who have been turning very

good homes into empty lots, making it very difficult for British Columbians to access

stable housing. That’s exactly what we did through our speculation and vacancy tax.

These are not just ways in which we can improve access to housing; these are ways

in which we can improve access to a higher standard of living.

[3:45 p.m.]

There were homes in my own community — right across from me, actually — that were

occupied by a short-term rental company, kept empty for 90 percent of the year. When

we brought in new regulations for short-term rentals, those two homes right across

the street from me became homes for two young families. Two young families who now

live there year-round. Two young families that are now a part of our community. Two

young families who can feel good living in a home that should have been intended for

them.

These are some of the ways through which we serve our community. I’m looking forward

to working with all of the members in this House. I look forward to the leadership

of our Premier and all of those who give that commitment to supporting our communities,

because this place is so much more than just about politics.

This place is about how we treat each other. This place is where we set an example

for others about what it means to engage in respectful debate, what it means to really

put people at the heart of what we do, what it means to be unified and what it means

to care — not just care for everybody in this House but everybody outside of this

House, outside of this chamber.

Thank you, hon. Speaker. With that, I conclude my remarks, and I thank you for the

time.

Deputy Speaker : Thank you very much, Member. We are looking forward to responses to the throne this

afternoon.

Steve Kooner : It’s an honour to stand here in the House today as elected representative for Richmond-Queensborough

and as Attorney General critic for British Columbia.

I would first like to give a heartfelt thank you to my parents, family, volunteers,

campaign team, supporters and the constituents of Richmond-Queensborough for helping

elect me to represent the constituency of Richmond-Queensborough.

I’m proud to serve the people of Richmond-Queensborough. It’s a proud moment for me

to actually respond to the throne speech today. Before I get into that, I just want

to get into a little bit about what led me to run for public office and what concerns

I had.

Justice and advocacy has always been an important part of me, since I was a little

child. I found myself, when I was about six or seven years old…. When my siblings

would have arguments, I would start voicing advocacy for one over the other. I would

advocate for one and then, in a different dispute, voice my concerns for the other

one.

I found that started translating to helping out other family members, and sometimes

it involved a lot of translation. I thought I found my calling as a little kid. People

would laugh at me. I was about eight years old, and I started saying I wanted to become

a lawyer. I pursued my studies and became a lawyer, and I was called to the British

Columbia bar back in 2006.

In addition to being a lawyer, I always considered myself an advocate for the community.

Community issues were always important to me. Just prior to this last election, there

were two issues that really, really drove me to run for public office. The first one

was the opioid crisis that we’re currently dealing with, the drugs crisis. The second

issue was the unaffordability crisis that we’re having in this province.

We’ve heard an emphasis in the throne speech about the opioid crisis, how the government

wants to tackle this opioid crisis and how this government wants to tackle the drugs

crisis. But this government has had close to a decade already to deal with this opioid

crisis. We’re not seeing any results in terms of the numbers going down, in terms

of deaths. This opioid crisis is out of control.

[3:50 p.m.]

This drugs crisis is a really personal issue for me, because about a decade and a

half ago, I lost a really close family member that I grew up with who struggled with

substance abuse issues and eventually passed away. I no longer have that person that

I grew up with to give a phone call to, have a shared joke with or just, if my day

was actually a bad day, share that with them.

Every day of my life now, I’m left with a memory. I don’t want anybody else or any

other family to go through that experience. I took it upon myself to run for public

office, and I said I wanted to be part of the fight against this crisis.

This drugs crisis has no boundaries. It has no limit. It has touched every socioeconomic

background in this province.

Just last week I attended the funeral of a 14-year-old girl that passed away from

a fentanyl overdose. Now, that family of the 14-year-old girl held a press conference

right after the funeral, and I spoke at that press conference.

Normally, you would think that nobody would probably want to have a press conference

after a funeral, but that family felt it was important to have a press conference.

When they found out about their daughter’s struggle with fentanyl, they wanted to

get her treatment, but they were repeatedly told that the child was over 13 years

old and that the child would have to consent. There couldn’t have been some involuntary

care in that situation. The parents were very, very concerned about that. Eventually

it was too late to get her some treatment. She passed away towards the end of January.

The parents want a change in government policies to deal with this crisis. The parents

also want prevention. They want prevention education to be taught in schools, so kids

stay away from this drugs crisis in the first place.

It’s time for a commonsense approach to tackling this crisis. The B.C. NDP’s drug

policies are failing. Taxpayer-funded safe supply programs are fuelling addiction

rather than helping people recover. Drug overdoses in schools are increasing, putting

our youth in danger. This is unacceptable.

We must return to a law-and-order approach. We must end the government-funded drug

supply madness. We must focus on treatment, recovery and enforcement. We must protect

our youth from the drug culture that is infiltrating our schools.

I represent Richmond-Queensborough, so I represent Richmond residents. Richmond residents

are very, very concerned about this drugs crisis. There are housing projects in Richmond

that Richmond residents are very concerned about — a couple of housing projects, called

temporary modular housing projects, in Richmond. Residents have been very vocal about

those.

I went and visited some neighbourhood residents that live across from a temporary

modular housing project located on Alderbridge, close to Westminster Highway, in Richmond.

Those residents told me that they are very concerned.

Since that temporary modular housing project began, they started noticing examples

of open drug use, increases in crime, increases in vandalism, increases in public

safety issues. They told me that this happens on an ongoing basis. This is unacceptable.

Another thing about those housing projects is that basically, untreated addicts are

being housed with the general homeless population in a housing project. That is a

concern to the residents of Richmond, because those untreated addicts actually need

treatment. They need treatment in order to get better, but if you don’t provide the

treatment, that leads to other problems. Those residents voiced their concerns to

me. They told me what those problems are, just last week.

[3:55 p.m.]

There was a Cambie-Sexsmith project, a Cambie per-manent housing project that was

supposed to be a permanent housing project. The provincial government was spearheading

that project.

The Richmond residents were very, very concerned about that, because they’ve already

had this past experience with the temporary modular housing projects. They don’t want

what’s going on in the neighbourhood of those temporary modular housing projects,

those effects, to happen at this permanent site.

So they protested the site, and rightfully, the city of Richmond listened. The city

of Richmond said the project is cancelled, but this provincial government still wants

to continue with such projects in the city of Richmond, and the residents of Richmond

are very, very concerned.

When there are untreated addicts being put into housing with the general homeless

population, what’s ending up happening there is that you’re warehousing the problem

without providing treatment. You need to get to the root of the problem. That’s what

these residents have been saying. I, along with my Richmond, B.C. Conservative caucus,

supported the Richmond residents, and I’m glad that the city of Richmond actually

listened.

It’s not good enough just to have reactive solutions, thinking about solutions after

the fact. We need to have proactive solutions. We need to prevent drug use in the

first place.

This is why, during the election campaign, I actively campaigned and advocated for

a turf and track field in the Queensborough part of my riding. The people of Queensborough

are concerned. They don’t have a facility that would allow for organized sports to

be played. The residents want a positive environment to be in their community, so

that kids don’t get steered towards drugs in the first place. I have been supporting

this project, and I would like for this provincial government, if it believes in tackling

the drugs crisis, to also support this project, because we need to have a focus on

prevention.

I also heard, in the throne speech, an emphasis put on infrastructure. That emphasis

on infrastructure was also in the throne speech from 2024. That’s an additional reason

why a track and turf field, an athletic facility, should be built in Queensborough.

In the 2024 throne speech, this government stated that it built such things as ice

rinks in building infrastructure to support a growing B.C. I say that’s another reason

to support a track and turf field that will help youth in Queensborough.

We must listen to residents; we must listen to their concerns. If they’re having certain

concerns about housing projects or having certain concerns about how we can solve

the drugs crisis, we must listen.

I saw the emphasis on highways infrastructure put in the throne speech, and a highly

publicized proposed project is in my riding. It’s the George Massey Tunnel, the George

Massey crossing. The residents of Richmond-Queensborough have been waiting for a crossing

for a decade now. Prior to the B.C. NDP forming government, close to a decade ago,

a bridge was approved, and that bridge would have actually been built a couple of

years ago.

[4:00 p.m.]

However, the B.C. NDP provincial government cancelled that project and said they wanted

to proceed with a tunnel. But there’s no tunnel anywhere to be seen in the near future.

To my knowledge, there’s not even an architectural design for construction that can

proceed on that project.

The residents of Richmond-Queensborough are very, very concerned because the current

Massey Tunnel, creates a huge traffic congestion within my riding along Highway 99,

along Steveston Highway, and also along the residential road of No. 5 Road. This is

unacceptable.

So if there’s an emphasis put on infrastructure, we should be building a major infrastructure

project in B.C. that has been talked about for a very long time. Otherwise this provincial

government is just doing lip service without real action.

Interjection.

Steve Kooner : Count Ladner in there too. Ladner has been waiting for the George Massey crossing

as well.

There was another emphasis put on public safety issues within the throne speech. However,

the B.C. NDP is failing on crime. Crime rates have skyrocketed under the B.C. NDP.

Serious thefts over $5,000 have surged. I was talking to a head of security for a

major shopping centre in Richmond. That head of security told me the amount of thefts

that are happening that are over $5,000 have increased fivefold in the last two years.

That is unacceptable.

Drug addiction, homelessness and violent crime are increasing. B.C. needs to return

to real consequences for criminals. We must stop the revolving door of justice and

hold criminals accountable. Community safety must be a priority once again.

I earlier spoke about another reason for me running for public office was the unaffordability

crisis. Now, this provincial government has stated and has put an emphasis on the

cost of living to make things more affordable for British Columbians. However, the

B.C. NDP policies are hurting families. Life in B.C. is becoming unaffordable. There’s

an unaffordability crisis here in B.C. Food banks are struggling to keep up with the

demand.

I volunteer some of my time with one particular food bank, and I noticed their recipient

list went from a few hundred people to thousands of people within a couple of years.

That actually shows the amount of people that need help in this province, the amount

of people that are struggling in this province. This government must do better, because

a lot of people are struggling as we speak.

I had a personal example. I had a friend that saw me posting videos about being around

a food bank and asked me: “Can I come down to the food bank as well?” I jokingly said:

“Would you like a tour?” That person said: “No, I don’t want a tour. I think I need

some help.”

Now that person was in the health care profession, and that really threw me back.

I’m like: there ar