Orders of the Day

Private Members’ Statements

WORKING FOR WORKERS 

J. Routledge: Four days from now is April 28, the National Day of Mourning, when we commemorate those who have lost their lives, suffered injury or illness on the job or have experienced work-related tragedy. It also serves to remind us of our commitment to improve workplace safety.

Seven days from now is May 1, the day most countries around the world celebrate as International Workers Day. So today, I rise to pay tribute to working people who, without their brain and muscle, not a single wheel would turn. “Who plowed the prairies, built the cities where they trade, dug the mines and built the workshops — endless miles of railroad laid.”

Many of us will recognize those words as lyrics from “Solidarity Forever,” written more than 100 years ago at a time when the workforce was predominantly male.

[10:05 a.m.]

Today I also make a point of paying tribute to those in female-dominated occupations, such as health care, home care, child care and administration. I also pay tribute to those who fed, clothed and sheltered their families and communities for thousands of years before employment came to be defined as a transaction.

[S. Chandra Herbert in the chair.]

I also want to remind us that at least two of B.C.’s defining industries, fishing and forestry, which generated great fortunes for the owners and family-supporting livings for generations of the many, were grounded in the knowledge and widespread participation of Indigenous workers.

Honouring the contributions of working people also means accepting that we may need to relearn our history. It may mean rethinking who is at the centre of our history. For example, I learned in school that the railway was built by William Van Horne. Later, I came to understand that he didn’t build it; he financed it. It was actually built by 9,000 workers, 6,500 of whom were Chinese Canadians who were paid less yet built the most dangerous segments.

Our constituents elected us to do one thing: shape a secure future that is fair and just, one in which everyone can thrive, or, as the writers of Solidarity Forever put it: “Build a new world from the ashes of the old.”

Sometimes that means sifting through those ashes to identify past injustices and assuring ourselves that we don’t perpetuate them. For example, we know we have a pay equity problem. We know that women in B.C. still tend to be paid 17 percent less than men. But do we know why?

It is historically relevant that women tend to work in different occupations than men. Over the course of my lifetime, I have heard lots of excuses for that fact, like: “Women are nurses, teachers and child care workers be­cause that’s what they do at home. It’s their calling.” Well, here’s an explanation that makes more sense.

Working-class women have always contributed to the family income in the industrial economy. In the early days, they might have grown food and sold it in the markets. Many took in boarders when young single men began migrating to the cities to work in factories. In today’s parlance, we might even have called them independent contractors.

Like working-class men, they have always answered the call of the market. So when the service sector began ex­panding rapidly in the 1920s, it was women who were available to fill these new jobs, such as telephone operators, secretaries, bank tellers and sales clerks.

For generations, they continued to be seen, stereotypically, as women’s jobs. Until recently, there were always more women who worked outside standard employment relationships — i.e., in the home — so the supply of workers to fill so-called women’s jobs was always greater than the demand.

That women are a source of cheap labour is a structural problem that requires structural change. Central to achieving pay equity is the elimination of occupational segregation. I applaud the unions and employers who are implementing plans to welcome women into the higher-paid jobs previously reserved for men.

If occupations could have been gendered right under our noses for so long, can we ask ourselves who else has been relegated to the reserve army of labour? Are there jobs that continue to be racialized? Do they experience a wage gap? We know intuitively that the answer is yes. Our government’s commitment to desegregate data will help us gather the evidence and proactively close the gap.

There are other steps we are taking to ensure working people are treated fairly. We’ve made significant improvements to workers compensation so workers and their families get help faster.

This includes ensuring employers accommodate and rehire injured workers when they are ready to return to work, and are required to do so by WorkSafeBC, ensuring workers are paid interest on delayed payments, enhancing WorkSafe’s ability to investigate workplace incidents that result in a worker’s fatality or serious injury, instituting an independent fair practices commissioner to investigate allegations of unfair treatment by WorkSafe, expanding access to health professionals, indexing benefits to the consumer price index, explicit provisions against claims suppression by employers, increased compensation for non-traumatic hearing loss and the presumption that certain physical and mental illnesses are job-related so that workers don’t have to go through the added trauma of proving it was job-related.

We’ve hired more staff at employment standards branch to investigate complaints, and the backlog is going down.

[10:10 a.m.]

The Employment Standards Act now deems certain jobs to be too dangerous for children. Single-step certification makes it easier for workers to join unions, and as a result, the number of workers joining unions has increased significantly. New licensing requirements for asbestos abatement will protect workers from asbestos poisoning.

We know workers and their families are struggling right now. That’s why we eliminated MSP premiums and re­duced ICBC rates. Minimum wage will go up to $16.75 an hour, a 6.9 percent increase, to keep up with global inflation. We reduced child care fees, and many families are already benefiting from our $10-a-day child care plan. We’ve introduced a renter’s tax credit, a B.C. affordability credit and the climate action tax credit, and now every worker is entitled to five days of paid sick leave.

With that, I will take my seat for now and listen to the response from the member opposite.

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

Ensuring British Columbia is a great place to do business is vitally important, and this is what creates jobs and keeps people working and making many important contributions to our economy. As the member has indicated, this coming Friday is actually the National Day of Mourning. As well, we have the upcoming month of International Workers Day.

Our workers are incredibly important. It’s also incredibly important that workers be respected in this province, but there’s a fine balance to be made, with protecting workers and workers’ rights and also providing the right economic climate so that businesses have the opportunity to continue to make those very important investments and to provide the important employment that many workers in B.C. require.

Unfortunately, I’m hearing from far too many small business owners that the challenges they are facing are increasing, not decreasing, making it harder and harder to do business in our province. Rising costs are becoming more difficult to contend with, with businesses facing a significant number of additional tax increases that reduce and erode the competitiveness of businesses here in B.C.

We do need to keep workers at the centre and in the focus. With respect to workers compensation claims, I was really sad to learn, just a few weeks ago, that the number of mental disorder claims in this province has gone up 500 percent in the last five years alone, growing from $37 million to $197 million. The costs keep rising. We have to ask ourselves: why is it that we see the mental disorder claims rising so quickly?

A lot of that is employer-driven, and the employer, in the case of mental disorder claims, is largely in the acute care–health care sector. We see nurses sidelined, unable to actually go to work on account of vaccination status — upwards of 4,000 nurses, which is only adding to the shortage of workers, requiring nurses to work double shifts. It’s a toxic work environment.

That is an area where government actually holds the pen and has the opportunity to ensure there’s adequate staffing levels so that we do not see our health care workers continue to struggle with the shortage of available supports.

Additionally, the member references the employment standards branch. Now, for those that are listening at home, the employment standards branch is the avenue where private sector workers, non-unionized employees, have the opportunity to seek justice should they have a challenge or a complaint with an employer. The backlog back in 2017 was two months. That backlog, under the current government, has now grown to 12 to 18 months.

Just imagine for a moment a worker that has a challenge, that maybe has not been paid severance pay or that maybe is not being paid overtime. They reach out to the employment standards branch — looking for justice, looking for that opportunity to have their claim actually resolved — to be told that it’ll be 12 to 18 months before somebody is actively working on their file.

[10:15 a.m.]

Under this current government, the employment standards branch’s own policy established and sets out the requirement for 85 percent of claims to be resolved within six months. You know what the performance level was of this government last year? Only 20 percent of claims were actually resolved within the government’s own policy objective of having 85 percent of claims adjudicated and resolved within six months.

There are many concerns about keeping workers at the centre of our focus. The Cowichan Hospital, currently under construction up in Duncan, B.C., is where Jon Coleman, with the Cowichan Tribes, is still sidelined, still unable to actually go to work within his own traditional territory because of policy decisions of this current government.

We see the community benefits agreements driving up costs significantly. In my own riding of Shuswap, the Salmon Arm west highway construction project was initially established for 6.1 kilometres. The project is $20 million over budget. Guess what. Only 3.3 kilometres were built — half the project for $20 million more.

We do need to keep workers at the centre and in the focus of all efforts of government. At the same time, it’s also important to make sure policies actually align with what I think all British Columbians would actually call for.

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

We are experiencing a serious labour shortage right now, and it is global in nature. In B.C. alone, we have more vacancies than there are unemployed workers to fill them. We predict that there will be more than one million job openings over the next ten years and that 80 percent of those new jobs will require post-secondary education.

It is crucial we act on this knowledge before it becomes a crisis. That is exactly what we’re doing. We have already put plans in place to train the workforce of the future and to attract already trained workers to our province. We’ve added more training seats across the province in skilled professions like nurses, veterinarians, early childhood educators, in technology and in skilled trades. We’re making it easier for internationally trained professionals to work here.

Our Future Ready plan invests $480 million, over the next three years, to break down barriers to training. We are funding a new internship program. We are expanding training opportunities for those who face multiple barriers, and we are connecting directly, through a survey, with people who hold foreign credentials, to get a more precise picture of the challenges they face in accessing good jobs in their field.

There is another workforce that we depend on as well. It deserves our support just as much. I’m talking about the precarious workforce, workers who don’t have standard jobs with predictable hours, wages, benefits and, in many cases, the right to join a union.

A recently publicized study by the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives estimates that more than half of the British Columbia workforce is employed in precarious jobs like ride-hail, food delivery drivers and home care workers. The study also shows us that these marginalized workers are predominantly new immigrants, Indigenous and women.

Our workforce is polarized. We need to address that trend before structural inequality and its consequences become entrenched. New and more jobs are in our future, but will they be good jobs? It is our job to make sure the answer is yes.

PUBLIC CONSUMPTION OF ILLICIT DRUGS

T. Wat: I’m pleased to rise and deliver a statement on something causing deep concern: the open consumption of illicit drugs in our public places.

Members of this House have heard from numerous communities across British Columbia that share concerns about this issue. Families are forced to worry about their children stumbling upon drug paraphernalia in our parks and playgrounds. At the same time, hazardous items, such as discarded needles, are a common sight in our neighbourhoods, posing a danger to both residents and visitors alike.

[10:20 a.m.]

I know I’m not alone in being critical of the government’s haphazard handling of decriminalization in our province. The decision to decriminalize hard drugs, with­out proper guardrails, has exposed our communities to the dangers of uncontrolled consumption in public areas. While simple activities like having a beer in a public park or using a plastic straw are tightly regulated, the government’s decriminalization policy has left the public consumption of illegal drugs like crystal meth, crack cocaine and fentanyl unchecked.

Seeing no accountability from this government, municipalities across British Columbia are being forced to come up with solutions on their own, with the introduction of bylaws to mitigate the harms of open drug use. However, they face resistance from the provincial government and legal challenges from organizations such as Pivot Legal Society, the Premier’s former employer. Penticton, Kelowna, New Westminster, Kamloops and Campbell River are just some of the communities trying to put at least some controls in place. Unfortunately, these efforts are insufficient without the provincial government’s support.

Under this government, open drug use can go un­checked in the same parks where parents are watching their kids play. Last week, we heard of parents like Andrea Miller, whose daughter Everleigh found a package of fentanyl in her elementary school playground in Nanaimo. No parent should have to live in fear for their child’s life because they might stumble across drugs, and dangerous drugs, like fentanyl, on their playgrounds.

This House’s Health Committee made the recommendation that if the government is going to pursue decriminalization, they have to make sure that protections are in place. Most members of this House understood the purpose and need for decriminalization, because we were told that safeguards would be in place.

Sadly, however, this government has not followed through on the requirements that should have been met prior to implementing decriminalization. This includes improving access to health services, meeting specific regions’ and communities’ unique needs, educating the public and providing training and resources to front-line police officers. The lack of preparation has and will continue to result in disastrous consequences for our communities.

After seven years of a public health emergency, the province continues to set one grim record after another. In 2022, our province recorded the highest number of overdose deaths ever recorded. March of this year was the highest month on record for overdose deaths. We have seen the highest number of overdose calls in a single day and the highest 30-day average of overdose calls ever recorded. These are unacceptable outcomes that we must address with the same urgency that we approached the COVID-19 pandemic.

We need a comprehensive plan to address the open consumption of illicit drugs in our public spaces. We must protect families and children. We need to provide support to municipalities and front-line workers to mitigate the harms of uncontrolled consumption. We need to meet the unique needs of our communities, including those in rural and remote areas.

We must educate the public about the dangers of open drug use and provide access to health services for those who desire treatment or other support.

It is time for the government to listen to British Columbians and stop us from going down this path of uncontrolled consumption of illegal drugs in our public spaces.

D. Routley: Thank you to the member for bringing up this very important subject, important to all of us because toxic drugs are the leading cause of death in all of our communities.

Our government is taking bold and courageous actions to address this crisis head-on and save lives. Unfortunately, the opposition appears to want to stand in the way and create false divisions instead of helping.

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

D. Routley: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Let’s make something perfectly clear. Decriminalization does not change the ability of local governments to pass or amend bylaws.

[10:25 a.m.]

All they must do, legally, is to consult their local medical health officer when they do, because this is a public health emergency. I would hope they would understand this.

Decriminalization is a critical step in the government of B.C.’s fight against the toxic drug crisis. B.C. decriminalized people who use drugs to fight the shame and stigma around addictions. Breaking down these barriers will help create new pathways to life-saving services and care, so more people will feel comfortable reaching out for those life-saving supports.

The province is committed to implementing decriminalization in a way that recognizes community needs and unique settings. Under decriminalization, adults aged 18 years and older who possess a cumulative total of less than 2.5 grams of certain illegal drugs for personal use will not be arrested, charged or have their drugs confiscated.

To be clear, decriminalization is about possession, not use. Public intoxication, whether by drugs or alcohol, re­mains illegal. Local governments have a range of regulatory tools that can address issues related to substance use and public disorder.

However, implementing blanket bylaws broadly that prohibit public consumption of illicit drugs and fining individuals who do so does not address the underlying causes related to addiction and may undermine the goals of decriminalization. Such enforcement activities may encourage individuals to use drugs alone or out of view, thereby increasing the risk of death due to the toxic drug supply.

Municipalities can use regulatory tools to tailor their response to local needs while balancing the goals of public health and public safety when it comes to the issue of public consumption of legal and illegal substances.

The Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions continues to work closely with public health, police, local governments and other partners to update policies and practice guidelines related to substance use where necessary to mitigate any outstanding issues that arise.

Former Premier John Horgan speculated, as he tasked the Select Standing Committee on Health with addressing the toxic drug crisis and the recommendations of the chief coroner, as to whether the spirit of cooperation that was proclaimed by the opposition when they asked for that committee to be tasked would survive that process. I really thought it had. I thought we signed on with one voice to a report that outlined exactly what is happening.

All of the supports, the holistic system that’s being built to support people and the access to these supports being increased, treatment beds being increased…. But the crisis is immediate, and the immediate response was decriminalization and safer supply. Responsible parties in this province recognize that this is a nuanced and complex problem and their role in it. One example is the Construction Association, who use their tailgate toolbox program to help break down the barriers of stigma.

I’ve worked in those industries — in logging, in sawmills and in construction — and drug use was common, going back 25, 30 years. Yes, it’s a toxic and terrible crisis now, but it’s a problem that has to be brought out into the sunshine to be solved. That requires us in this House to speak with one voice in support of our constituents, because there should be no scapegoating.

Every member in this House, through that committee, signed on to support this effort. We must put down the divisions of partisanship and recognize that the number one reason we must address this crisis — without stigma, without shame — is that there is barely one of us in this province who is so separated from it that we can’t apply the face of a person who we knew or loved to this crisis. Let’s speak with one voice.

T. Wat: I appreciate the member of the government for their response. However, that is cold comfort for mothers like Andrea, whose daughter found a pack of fentanyl in her school playground.

[10:30 a.m.]

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

T. Wat: Cities like New Westminster and Kelowna say there need to be provincial rules to avoid a patchwork of inconsistent responses to decriminalization, which creates confusion for the public and challenges front-line enforcement. It should be the government’s responsibility to regulate the public consumption of illicit drugs in our public spaces — including parks, playgrounds and beaches — considering the harmful consequences of unsafe decriminalization, which we are seeing now.

I never thought British Columbia would become a place where I am worried about my grandchildren finding needles used to consume illicit drugs in an area designated for children and families, such as a playground. Unfortunately, this has become the harsh reality.

After listening to stories from parents in Vancouver, in Salmon Arm, in Nanaimo and elsewhere, I urge the government to listen to concerned parents watching out for their young children. I recommend that the Premier listen to municipalities and municipal governments who know their communities better than we do. Let’s give them control of their lives and the ability to protect the public from illicit drug use in public spaces.

INVEST IN OUR PLANET

A. Singh: “Then, though his sight was now very dim, he looked again at the young men. ‘They will commit me to the earth,’ he thought. ‘Yet I also commit them to the earth. There is nothing else by which men live. Men go and come, but earth abides.’” George Stewart.

Every year on April 22, Earth Day marks the anni­versary of the birth of the modern environmental movement in 1970. Today Earth Day is widely recognized as the largest secular observance in the world, marked by more than one billion people every year as a day of action to change human behaviour and create global, national and local policy changes.

Today the fight to protect our environment continues with increasing urgency as the ravages of climate change become more and more apparent every day. We here in British Columbia have come face to face with that reality many times over the last few years.

As the awareness of our climate crisis grows, so does the need for mobilization. We can see this mobilization across the globe today.

Sustainability is the path to prosperity for humanity and businesses alike. Companies that have developed strong environmental social governance standards are seeing better profitability, stronger financial performance and happier employees. There is no longer a choice between going green and long-term profits. There is no balancing the economy and the environment. They go hand in hand. Economies can prosper as the environment does.

It’s crucial for all of us to act now. If we don’t, climate change will cause even more catastrophic damage, not only to our planet but also to our economy. It’s negatively impacting every single person on this planet. We in government recognize that.

Earth Day is a chance to reaffirm our commitment to climate action, our commitment to protection of our natural spaces and to continue to work towards a better future for everyone in British Columbia. We are grateful for the opportunity to join a global community for a common cause. This year’s theme is “Invest in our planet.”

As British Columbians, we are fortunate to be surrounded by a diverse landscape and diverse ecosystems that shape our province and sustain us. We’re uniquely tied to the ground, to the earth.

[10:35 a.m.]

Like countless other places around the world, British Columbia is experiencing the effects of a changing climate. Extreme weather events like drought, record wildfires, flooding and intense heat waves highlight the need for immediate actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. That’s why our government continues to prioritize investing in climate action, to ensure that everyone in B.C. has access to healthy communities and to ensure that everyone can have a safe and healthy future.

We’re lowering emissions through our CleanBC Road­map to 2030, which puts us on a path to a cleaner, more resilient economy that works for all of us. As one of the most progressive climate action plans in North America, this plan will lead us to a future where new buildings and vehicles produce zero emissions, where we use less energy and create less waste, where communities and businesses are ready for a changing climate and where industries are the cleanest in the world.

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

The land is in a constant state of birth,
Giving life to all who live on earth.
Our carelessness and fears
Have taken a toll over the years.
Her land is parched and scorched
As man continues to light the torch.
We continue a want of speed and ease,
All while our pesticides kill off our bees.
It’s time to wake up and see Mother Earth’s pain.
Humanity’s selfishness is becoming insane.
Soon her cries will turn to gloom,
And man will cause its own doom.

R. Merrifield: Thank you to the member opposite for bringing forward this important topic for discussion in the House today. Addressing climate change and being good stewards of our planet and its natural environment are certainly priorities for all official parties in this Legislature, and I’m glad to have the opportunity to respond to the member’s comments. I am confident that although we may have different ideas of the path we need to get there, we all want a healthy planet and a healthy future for our children and their children.

As the member rightly pointed out, this past Saturday was Earth Day, with the theme “Invest in our planet.” I appreciate this framing, as it underlines the importance of thinking about our planet not just as something that we can extract value from but also as something that we can add value to if we care for it responsibly and remember that our actions have a profound impact on the world around us. Just as we prioritize investments in what we value, the theme this year is a call to prioritize our planet now and see the long-term view of these environmentally focused deposits into the future of our world.

Sometimes it’s hard to maintain hope. It feels like we’ve already lost the battle, and the extremism and the futility of even trying simply overwhelms. But we need to do something. The devastating atmospheric rivers and floods of the past few years, the worsening forest fires we continue to witness across our province all point to a growing problem, and one we must work together to address.

Rhetoric is meaningless. Action and results are all that matters. Those of us in positions to impact policy, to create change, must take real action. It’s going to take much more than words, promises and announcements to solve climate change and create more resilient communities. We need a pragmatic and innovative approach that gives solutions that make sense in the unique context across our province. We need to spend and invest on what really makes a difference and what will give us the results that we need and tackle this issue holistically.

Yes, we need to be thinking about more safe, efficient and accessible transit for the urban areas, but that doesn’t do those in the North much good in January, on a bike with a bike route. How about a zero-waste district energy system for the rural and remote communities? We need to seek better emissions-lowering measures in each area and locale, taking into account the unique carbon footprint of every single area, and contextualize our approach.

Investing in our planet also means investing in what’s working in innovation and green energy solutions — projects like Site C which, when finished, will have the capacity to provide additional reliable clean energy for our province.

[10:40 a.m.]

These clean energy projects are key to transitioning our economy and investing in a greener future for our planet. But we need so many more projects like this — so, so many more — to support cleaner resource extraction and lower emissions for the general public, although, hopefully, future projects will be on time and on budget.

Measures like a revenue-neutral carbon tax or expanding LNG help to cut down on global greenhouse gas emissions, all while growing our economy. With a growing economy, we can invest more in alternative energy solutions and other strategies to address climate change that will help to secure the health of our planet for the long term.

Taking care of the planet is our collective responsibility. We will all be negatively impacted by the continued progression of climate change, especially if we don’t start taking more serious action to address it, and we will all benefit from the decision-makers taking real steps to invest in our planet and make smart decisions for our future.

My hope is that together, we can make our planet a priority and work to secure a bright future for generations to come, truly investing in our planet.

A. Singh:

“From earth to sky fell a ceaseless rain of dust and garbage that fouled the home of the gods and poisoned their food.

“The gods tolerated that filthy discharge for an eternity.

“Then their patience ran out. They sent a bolt of lightning, which split the earth in two. Through the crack, they hurled the sun, the moon and the stars on high, and by that route, they too climbed up. Way up there, far from us, safe from us, the gods founded their new kingdom.

“Ever since, we are the ones underneath.”

Eduardo Galeano.

We know reducing emissions and pollution is only part of the work we must do together. We need to conserve and care for our environment to secure a future for the biodiversity of our province. To achieve this, we are working with Indigenous peoples and other partners to meet our commitment to protect 30 percent of our land by 2030, as well as restoring our watersheds to safeguard fish and wildlife habitat.

We’re making it more affordable for people to afford or to switch to electric vehicles and to cleaner ways to heat and cool their homes. We’re supporting communities with infrastructure that reduces fossil fuel reliance and adapts to a changing climate, and we’re making the environmental choice easier for everyone by investing in public transit and active transportation infrastructure, providing safe, reliable and clean travel options.

We’re also committed to reducing and preventing waste to keep food and yard waste out of our landfills. We have invested in new or expanded composting facilities and organics collection programs. We’re expanding a recycling program and investing in projects that transform used plastics into new products. Further, we’ve supported the removal of debris from nearly 4,000 kilometres of B.C. shoreline, collecting over 1,000 tonnes of plastic debris from the waters.

Climate change and biodiversity loss affect us all. Earth Day is an opportunity for each of us to dedicate our time and energy to making B.C. and the planet we call home a cleaner, more sustainable place, where future generations can thrive and benefit from the investments in the climate action that we make today.

VANDALISM AND SMALL BUSINESSES

B. Banman: I rose and spoke in this chamber a few weeks ago about how staff at local businesses in my riding of Abbotsford South are scared to go to work because they face thefts, threats, fear of attacks with weapons. I spoke about a local shop owner that has to deal with constant theft, smashed windows, fires and the cleaning of human feces, urine and needles. Let me remind members of this House that stories like this are not unique to Abbotsford. We are hearing about it from every corner in B.C.

Continuing with the same attitude towards crime, the so-called catch-and-release system has led to an unprecedented drop in public safety, the levels provincewide leaving communities across British Columbia there in fear, and small businesses are suffering. A jewelry store in Victoria was robbed in broad daylight by a hammer-wielding intruder. A shooter — a shooter — in New West shot at a group of people in the middle of a downtown core. And I can keep going.

[10:45 a.m.]

What has happened to our province? These are ex­amples from just the last week alone. People’s safety is clearly at risk. Unfortunately, the government risks eroding people’s trust in its ability to protect law-abiding British Columbians. The backbones of our communities, small businesses, are caught in the middle of this mayhem. Small businesses have been paying the price for the lack of public safety as they deal with the impacts of crime and vandalism.

The Business Improvement Areas of British Columbia surveyed 500 small businesses from across the province to find out how long they can continue to operate under these conditions. Almost half — a staggering 48 percent — indicated that they would be forced to shut down sometime within the next couple of years at this rate. This Legislature and all the members in this House should not be proud of this damning statistic. Small businesses drive local revenue, provide good jobs for community members and contribute significantly to our provincial economy.

In the city of Vancouver alone, the Vancouver Economic Commission estimates that about 60,000 jobs are generated by businesses with a storefront, yet areas like Hastings Crossing and neighborhoods like Chinatown face some of the highest storefront vacancy rates, at a staggering 28 percent and 16.8 percent respectively. One in ten storefronts in Vancouver’s high streets are vacant. Small businesses can barely keep up with the rising costs due to inflationary measures yet are now forced to pay the price for a system that has put the rights of repeat violent offenders before law-abiding people and businesses.

We need to do better to protect small businesses that keep our communities thriving, which is why the official opposition has come out in support of a provincewide grant program, as proposed by the Business Improvement Areas of B.C., to help cover vandalism repairs and security upgrades for small businesses: “Businesses require immediate relief, and funding for anti-vandalism programs aimed at enhancing business security and/or mitigating the impacts of crime is a needed next step,” says Teri Smith, the president of BIABC.

At this rate, small businesses end up spending more time dealing with vandalism, break-ins and thefts instead of focusing on growing their businesses and supporting their staff. Staff are frightened to go to work, because they don’t know if they will be the next victim. I am heartbroken and tired of hearing from businesses in my community that are struggling to get by.

Over a month long, an ongoing transit strike in the Fraser Valley is stopping workers and customers from getting to where they need to go. Increased business costs due to the inflation, interest rates and now rampant crime are just making matters worse. This should be troubling to the ears of government. It is our job to keep our people safe.

The idea that hundreds and, potentially, thousands of businesses could close their doors in the next two years is a major concern for our economy, the health of our communities and the livelihoods and the well-being of all British Columbians. Grants, such as the one proposed by the official opposition, are critical…

Deputy Speaker: It’s private members’ time.

B. Banman: …to helping stop the damage that is being done, to give businesses a fighting chance at survival. It is time for the government to end the catch-and-release justice system, keep our communities safe…

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

B. Banman: …and ensure that small businesses are safe, that small businesses can thrive and that they’re not being forced to pay the price for our inaction.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

We know that these are challenging times for everyone — in particular, including small businesses — not only in communities across British Columbia but certainly throughout downtowns across North America. They continue to face some of these challenging difficulties, and particularly here in B.C. That’s why our government is taking steps to address that.

[10:50 a.m.]

In terms of “Where do these problems and challenges come from, and why do they arise,” it hasn’t just popped up suddenly. We know that there’s a context. While my friend across the way talks about some of these challenges, we should also not forget that cuts from previous governments contributed to the challenges we’re seeing now — cuts to social services, including housing, creating homelessness; health cuts to mental health and addictions care; and poverty in British Columbia.

I undertook initiatives when our government struck a commitment to bring in a much-needed poverty reduction plan. We travelled across the province, engaging small businesses, local chambers of commerce. Everyone came together in terms of looking at how we need to invest in people, invest in services.

Particularly during the pandemic, our government came together to ensure that businesses got the supports they needed most, and this continues today. Since the beginning of the pandemic, our province has provided more than $525 million, over $1 billion in supports to help nearly 30,000 businesses. We created new tools to support reductions in municipal property taxes, making the food delivery fee cap permanent and wholesale pricing for liquor, responding to the requests of small businesses.

We’re making different choices. We’re investing in peo­ple and helping small businesses retain and recruit workers, which we know is critical.

Ensuring small businesses have the supports. Lowering costs, we’ve provided the B.C. Hydro credit, an average of $500. Also ensuring that…. We hear from small businesses right across the province about the need for workers, to attract and retain workers — responding to that. Supporting, in terms of access to labour. And we’ve made record investments in housing and health care so that that can support businesses to find and retain staff.

In terms of looking at the issues and challenges that small businesses face, the member raised concerns around public safety, and our government is clearly in support of law enforcement to support them. We know that they are committed professionals.

To ensure that our communities are safe, our government has taken the lead in demanding that the federal government, which the member and the opposition knows are responsible under the federal Criminal Code for dealing with requirements of bail….

Nevertheless, our government has taken the lead to bring together teams to address violent offenders in our communities. We have taken the lead to press the federal government to make changes to ensure that violent offenders are not released into the public. We have taken the lead in terms of investments in our local law enforcement to support them to do their job. Our commitment is to continue to do that.

We are putting in place a provincial plan to deal with addictions recovery and supporting folks who need those supports. We’re investing in child care to ensure that workers and businesses have that support so that they can be employed in their communities as well as investments, unprecedented, in terms of supporting public services, housing and, really, the context to support small businesses. These are what we’ve heard from businesses, what they require.

We will continue…. Our Premier and also the Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation will continue to meet with small businesses, to respond to their needs, to hear what works best. Our government is here to support small businesses, to support communities, to ensure that workers have good jobs and are safe. That is our commitment going forward.

B. Banman: I want to thank the member opposite for her comments. I’m glad that we can agree that small businesses are the backbone of British Columbia’s communities.

It’s critical that we acknowledge how they provide character, how they provide vibrancy to our towns, our cities, while also supplying jobs and contributing to our economy — something we need more than ever in our post-pandemic world.

[10:55 a.m.]

I was glad to hear that the member opposite said that she thought it was great to support businesses. I look forward to hearing this government propose and follow the BIABC’s recommendation that they need help for vandalism.

Under the current policies, sadly, which have led to increased vandalism, theft, threat and assaults, and a system that has made operating a business in B.C. costlier than ever before, it has made operating a business so expensive, in fact, that almost half of small businesses are likely to shut down within the next year.

Something has to be done. Employees should not have to go to work and fear of being robbed. Business owners should not have to focus on repairing broken windows instead of bringing more jobs to the community, and customers should feel safe and comfortable walking down their streets.

[J. Tegart in the chair.]

Well, this is how things should be. It’s not how things are. It’s why we think it’s smart to get behind the BIABC’s proposal to introduce a provincewide grant program that will help support the cost of needed security upgrades and building repairs right now. It will give businesses that are forced to deal with the consequence of policies that have failed them and have failed to keep crime and disorder off our streets…. It will give them a glimmer of hope. It will show them that British Columbia wants to be behind them and support them in giving back to their communities.

But this is just one step, and we need to do more to support the backbone of our economy, which is small businesses in British Columbia. We must be united and work together to create a business-friendly environment that encourages innovation and that nurtures it, nurtures entrepreneurship and investment. We need to listen to the concerns of small business owners and take actions to address them.

Hon. J. Whiteside: I ask that the House consider proceeding with Motion 42, standing in the name of the member for Nelson-Creston.

Deputy Speaker: Members, unanimous consent of the House is required to proceed to Motion 42 without disturbing the priorities of the motions preceding it on the order paper.

Leave granted.

Private Members’ Motions

MOTION 42 — TOURISM INDUSTRY

B. Anderson:

[Be it resolved that this House celebrates this week as Tourism Week and recognizes the valuable economic and cultural contributions that the tourism industry brings to B.C.]

Hon. Speaker, as you know, members in this House don’t always agree, but I would be surprised if any MLA didn’t support this motion today, as it is an opportunity to celebrate and showcase the incredible tourism opportunities and businesses in their ridings and across B.C.

I am honoured to be the Parliamentary Secretary for Tourism, and I believe that B.C. is the most incredible place in the world to live and visit. We offer breathtaking natural scenery, Indigenous tourism, world-class culinary offerings and accommodations, experiences that engage, educate and inspire, exceptional arts, culture and sport and, of course, our people. British Columbians are welcoming, hospitable and diverse.

Tourism is one of the most dynamic industries in B.C. A thriving tourism industry is a pillar of the StrongerBC economic plan that contributes to an inclusive, sustainable and innovative economy that works for all people. It is a pathway for jobs, opportunity and entrepreneurship, where healthy, inclusive societies are more productive, competitive and innovative. The tourism industry has the power to boost quality of life for people in every corner of our province.

[11:00 a.m.]

Over the next three years, we will work with communities to rebuild their visitor economies and raise the bar even higher, because we know a well-managed, thriving tourism industry makes life better for people. This means working with our partners to invest in arts, culture, heritage, sport and multicultural experiences, infrastructure, events and festivals, all of which make B.C. communities a great place to live and visit.

When I attended the B.C. Tourism and Hospitality Conference and awards gala in Prince George in March, I was honoured to meet exceptional leaders and positive changemakers in B.C.’s tourism and hospitality sector. I would like to thank the organizers and congratulate all the 2023 B.C. Tourism and Hospitality award winners and finalists.

As Parliamentary Secretary for Tourism, I have the incredible job of working to support the tourism industry across the province. In B.C., we have so many incredible tourism operators and experiences, and I know other members speaking to this motion will help me to highlight unique tourism opportunities in their region.

I’m going to take the opportunity to shine some light on the Kootenays, the best place to live and visit year round in British Columbia. The Kootenays are a nature lover’s paradise, offering a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, mountain biking, fishing and wildlife watching. Thanks to the incredible back country, several cat-skiing operators offer nearly 100,000 acres of powder terrain and up to six kilometres of vertical per day. Nelson has been dubbed the cat-skiing capital of the world, and our beloved local hill, Whitewater Ski Resort, is expanding to become a year-round adventure tourism destination.

The Kootenays are also home to several stunning rec sites and provincial parks, including Kokanee Provincial Park and Valhalla Provincial Park. These parks offer breathtaking landscapes, serene lakes and picturesque hiking trails that allow visitors to experience the region’s wilderness and natural beauty up close.

The Creston Valley is the hub of agritourism in the Kootenays, and whether it’s visiting Kootenay Meadows to watch the cows prance around the fields during their spring turnout, sipping a glass of wine at Baillie-Grohman, or wandering around the farmers market, the Creston Valley has memorable and delicious agritourism experiences.

The Kootenays has been the hub of cannabis cultivation and culture for decades. This weekend at the Cannabis Summit in Kelowna, there was a great panel discussion about the incredible economic diversification opportunities cannabis tourism will have in the future, and I am looking forward to helping support this industry expand and thrive.

Finally, the Kootenays are home to several vibrant communities that offer a wide range of cultural and culinary experiences. There are incredible cultural events and festivals and activities across the Kootenays, including in Nelson, which was named the best small arts town in Canada.

The Kootenays offers incredible tourism experiences that are sure to leave a lasting impression on any visitor, so come visit us. I look forward to hearing from members about the tourism gems in their region.

L. Doerkson: I am certainly pleased to rise in support of the tourism sector. It is certainly a vital industry in our province. As British Columbians, we are incredibly proud of our home and love the opportunity to share it with people from across Canada and, of course, the world.

As we recognize Tourism Week, an essential contribution of tourism attractions, operators and businesses, we also have to acknowledge the challenges they have faced over the last few years. Many tourism operators, of course, are still recovering from the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, and it is more important than ever that we continue to support them and ensure that they are able to showcase our province, its heritage and its beauty for years to come.

I have the incredible privilege of living in what I consider to be one of the most beautiful regions of our prov­ince. In my opinion, Cariboo-Chilcotin is full of some of the most incredible landscapes, best recreational opportunities and, of course, home to the most welcoming people in British Columbia.

[11:05 a.m.]

From agritourism to outdoor recreation, like wildlife viewing, fishing, hunting and mountain biking to world-class wilderness resorts and guest ranches and events, like our many rodeos and stampedes, there is certainly no shortage of tourism opportunities in my constituency.

We have access to some of the most amazingly beautiful places, like Tweedsmuir Park and others, which offer spectacular scenery, hiking and back-country activities. There is, of course, the annual Williams Lake Stampede, when we welcome thousands of people from across Canada and the United States to take part in the rodeo, the parades and other activities that go along with stampede. It’s always one of my favourite weekends. I certainly love to watch the city truly come alive and our whole community pull together to make these incredible events happen.

But the fun is not only limited to the Williams Lake Stampede. Interlakes, Bridge Lake and many other communities host rodeos and stampedes throughout the entire summer. Additionally, we have numerous farmers markets, fairs and other community events, world-class mountain bike trails and concerts that attract people from across the province. This year 100 Mile House is even hosting a country artist named Aaron Pritchett at a party in the park.

Cariboo-Chilcotin is also home to some of the best fishing anywhere. You can enjoy it almost anywhere through­out our region, but for certain, you should take a trip down Highway 24 as it’s known to many as the Fishing Highway.

I want to take the time to recognize the incredible, dedicated teams of people that are behind each and every one of these events. They literally would not be possible without the amazing volunteers and organizers that put so much time and effort into making them an incredible success.

Additionally, I want to thank all of our tourism sector workers — the museum curators, hotel managers and em­ployees, wilderness guides, guide outfitters, parks workers and so many others — who work every day to showcase our province to the world. Thank you for investing in our communities, for educating people and reminding us of why we are so lucky to live here in British Columbia.

I also want to call on the members of this House, particularly those on the other side of this chamber, to in turn invest in our tourism sector. Many are still trying to get back on their feet after years of low visitor numbers and the cost of having to modify their operations. Operators have also had the challenge of dealing with, of course, wildfires and natural disasters that have seen their businesses cut off from their clientele.

Tourism is a multi-billion-dollar industry in our prov­ince and a major contributor to our economy. Government must respond by ensuring that operators have the support they need to be successful. We also have to invest in our province and ensure it’s a place people want to visit and explore and are able to feel safe doing so.

This Tourism Week I join my B.C. United colleagues in this House in expressing my continued support for the tourism sector and the integral role it plays in every corner of our province.

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

The past few years have been tough on the tourism in­dustry, but we’ve seen innovation and growth in our riding. We are proud of how our region has grown and established a thriving ecotourism industry. As we see international travel rebound, our region welcomes visitors from around the world to experience world-class outdoor adventures, ranging from spectacular whale watching and grizzly bear viewing to sport fishing, which has been foundational to the history of tourism development in our region for generations.

I could talk forever on the opportunities for visitors in my riding, but I would like to highlight a few Indigenous tourism initiatives in the North Island that our government has supported and invested in. The North Island has many world-class Indigenous-based businesses, and nations have been resilient. As stewards of the land, Indigenous tourism on the North Island continues to grow and welcome visitors from around the globe and residents alike to have new, unique, powerful and cultural experiences.

As a government, we announced funding that not only supports Indigenous tourism opportunities but also builds in economic development initiatives that assist communities through the rural economic development infrastructure program.

[11:10 a.m.]

The first is the Bear Bay lodge construction project, which is an initiative of the Homalco Nation. The Hom­alco Nation is partnering with Bute Inlet Lodge, Whitemantle Heli-Sports and Homalco Wildlife and Cultural Tours to build a second lodge and adjoining trails within their territory, to provide sufficient accommodation capacity for heli-skiing and year-round eco-adventure packages. This will leverage economic tourism offerings and create livelihoods for Homalco Nation members who want to reconnect with their homeland, an important priority for their nation and its economic development vision.

The second is the Gwa’sala-’Nakwaxda’xw Nation Indigenous tourism business centre project led by the K’awat’si Economic Development Corp. The Indigenous tourism and business centre project aims to enhance the guest experience and services offering at the Kwa’lilas Hotel in Port Hardy, by way of several key renovations and up­grades. These renovations include new kitchens for its new fine-dining restaurant, as well as energy-efficient and eco-friendly heat pumps, staff training and more to enhance the Indigenous experience of visitors.

The third is a Quatsino Nations economic project. This project is for construction of a service station on their main reserve to provide economic development and em­ployment opportunities for members, while adding missing services for their nation and tourists visiting their territory.

The last I would like to highlight is an Indigenous tourism initiative that’s creating economic activity in the remote areas of the North Island with a new Indigenous-owned luxury resort business that will drive visitor attractions and ecotourism to Kyuquot Sound.

Along with the support of Island Coastal Economic Trust, through their capital and innovation program, the Ka:’yu:’k’t’h’/Che:k:tles7et’h’ First Nation purchased a year-­round floating resort that will help them with visitor growth and tourism diversification opportunities. The purchase of this floating lodge will carry the Walters Cove name and allow the nation to generate community and economic benefits for the sport fishing sector, a significant economic driver within Kyuquot Sound.

Along with the rural economic development infrastructure program is the fairs and events funding that we announced just recently. We know fairs and festivals are facing many challenges: the loss of staff, volunteers and attendees, and increasing costs, supply chain shortages, and other operational complexities. That’s why we’re launching the B.C. fairs and festivals event which provides up to $30 million in one-time funding for eligible events.

The Campbell River Wine, Brews and Blues Festival by the Sea; the Haig-Brown Festival; Salmon Fest 2023 in the Salmon Capital of the World, the city of Campbell River; the Campbell River Live Streets program; and Wings ’n’ Wheels 2023; along with the North Island Music Festival in Port McNeill and the North Central Island professional contemporary dance series, which brings arts and culture to the North Island. All of these received funding this year. I’m really proud to be part of a government that supports this important North Island sector.

Madam Speaker, tourism is alive and growing in the North Island, and I invite you to come see what you’re missing.

T. Wat: British Columbia is a beautiful province. With our picturesque landscapes, vibrant cities and diverse communities, there’s truly something for everyone. As we kick off B.C. Tourism Week, I want to highlight the im­portance and accomplishment of the B.C. tourism sector, while acknowledging the struggles the industry is continuing to face.

Prior to the pandemic, tourism was a major driver of B.C.’s economy, a $20.5 billion industry providing more than 161,000 jobs to British Columbians. Unfortunately, tourism was one of the sectors hit the hardest by the pandemic, as travel came to a halt and people stayed in their homes. Despite the devastating impacts of COVID, B.C.’s tourism industry was able to bounce back, and I praise the resilience of tourism operators and their workers.

However, despite travel opening back up and tourists flocking to B.C. once again, our tourism industry is facing major challenges. The affordability crisis in this province continues to get worse, creating challenges for both businesses and their workers, as commercial and residential rents skyrocket. There are even stories of some hotels having to house their workers in unoccupied rooms at a time when B.C. is already short 20,000 hotel rooms.

[11:15 a.m.]

Tourism and hospitality businesses are dealing with the increased costs of food, taxes, the employer health tax and a nearly 20 percent increase in WorkSafeBC premiums, at a time when they can hardly afford it. Some 85 percent of restaurants had to borrow money to stay afloat during the pandemic, with the majority still trying to pay off those debts. These cost increases don’t help but instead hamper their recovery. Additionally, labour shortages are severely impacting tourism businesses as they struggle to find workers, both domestically and internationally, with backlogs in the temporary foreign worker registry.

Part of celebrating B.C.’s tourism industry is ensuring it is well-supported to reach its full potential. The rampant increase in break-ins, broken windows and other property crimes is taking a toll on businesses in the downtown core of our cities. Not only are they faced with covering the costs associated with increased crime, but their employees and customers no longer feel safe going to their businesses downtown.

The challenges facing the tourism industry are being felt in Vancouver’s Chinatown, and the area is seeing frequent business closures. Kent’s Kitchen, a beloved restaurant, a staple of Chinatown, is closing its doors on April 30, due to a 30 percent rent increase that they cannot afford. Daisy Garden Kitchen, a historic family-owned restaurant that has been operating for more than 40 years, shut its doors earlier this year, due to labour shortages.

Chinatown is a popular destination for tourists visiting the Lower Mainland. However, Destination Vancouver CEO Royce Chwin has said: “We have two operators in Europe right now who have stopped selling tours to Chinatown and Gastown because they are worried about safety.” This is devastating news to the businesses in Chinatown that rely on the interest of tourists to stay afloat.

I’m proud to represent Richmond here, alongside my fellow colleagues. It is a city filled with culture, world-class food and a true coastal experience. Visitors won’t be disappointed. Britannia Shipyard, West Dyke Trail and the Richmond Night Market, which was featured in season 8 of The Amazing Race Canada, are just a few of the many popular destinations Richmond has to offer.

I will continue to be a vocal advocate for the tourism sector in Richmond and all of our beautiful B.C. So during Tourism Week, let’s not….

Deputy Speaker: Thank you, Member.

J. Rice: I’m enjoying listening to all the members in this House brag about their own community and insist that their community is the best tourism spot. That’s the amazing thing about British Columbia. There are so many amazing places to explore and discover, and fun things to do. It’s no wonder that 100,000 people came to B.C. last year — 100,000 people moved here because it’s such a cool place to live, work and explore.

As we celebrate Tourism Week in B.C., we recognize this industry, and the people who work in it, for its important contributions to our province. Tourism has been, and always will be, integral to who we are as British Columbians. B.C.’s Tourism Week recognizes tourism’s vital im­portance to our province as one of B.C.’s leading industries. I want to extend my sincere appreciation and admiration to everyone who is working in B.C.’s tourism industry — especially to those that work within my riding of North Coast, soon to be North Coast–Haida Gwaii, I presume.

[11:20 a.m.]

Tourism has made a significant contribution to our local economies and has a been a major employer, not just for my riding but throughout British Columbia.

Not only that, I wanted to just point out something that’s really significant in my riding, with such a high Indigenous population. It is bringing First Nations people who want to get back to the land and get back to the waters that they have lived and grown up on and with for thousands of years. A burgeoning tourism industry on the Central Coast and Haida Gwaii, for example, is introducing youth to tremendous opportunities. They are in their element doing what is just so inherently theirs to do.

I’d point out that tourism enriches our lives. It supports a greater diversity of amenities, too, such as museums and galleries, festivals, sporting events, transportation, dining and wining tours, parks and rec facilities and other benefits that make life better here in B.C.

This year is the first travel season without pandemic-related border restrictions. We’re excited to spotlight B.C. once again as this world-class destination.

I wanted to talk about the $30 million into the fairs and festivals grant. That’s supporting festivals all over B.C. Locally, in my community, it supports Salmon Fest, which was really at risk of continuing on. It’s hosted by the Nisg̱a’a Nation. It celebrates the return of salmon — critical. That’s one of the grant recipients in my riding. There are others.

I wanted to just talk about some of the unique places. For example, in the Bella Coola Valley, we have the annual Bella Coola Music Festival in July. It’s a big draw. There’s also a rich Indigenous history. Be sure, if you ever go to the valley, to take a petroglyph tour guided by the Nuxalk First Nation. Tweedsmuir Park is pretty popular. The lodge is renowned for its heli-skiing packages.

Lots of amazing accommodations. I want to list some, but I can’t list them all. I’m reticent to leave someone out and hurt their feelings.

Haida Gwaii is called Canada’s archipelago for a reason. You’ll find endemic species of plants and animals. This is an archipelago of islands that escaped glaciation. We have an amazing, amazing museum in Haida Gwaii. You have to go. It’s in Skidegate.

We also, up in the North — in Masset, Old Massett and Tow Hill — have kilometres and kilometres of white sand beaches. Think Tofino with no people. We have that. That is a great opportunity, if you need to get away from people.

I have 12 seconds. I’ll just highlight Klemtu and Spirit Bear Lodge. If you want to go see white bears, go there.

Don’t forget Prince Rupert. Lots of unique challenges. I was once a guide at the Khutzeymateen Grizzly Sanctuary. A place to check out.

T. Shypitka: It’s my pleasure to rise today and celebrate Tourism Week in our beautiful province of British Columbia.

As everyone in this chamber is very aware, British Columbia is one of the most amazing places in the world to visit, with breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife and a rich culture that can be found in every corner of this province. Every year millions of people from all over the world visit B.C. to experience its sights and attractions and incredibly welcoming hospitality.

With so many visitors to the region, tourism is one of the main drivers of the province’s economy, generating billions of dollars in revenue and supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs. It cannot be understated how valuable this industry is and how important it is to keep focusing on its growth and continued success.

Now, some may call me biased for this, but I believe the East Kootenay region is the best place to visit in British Columbia. It offers some of the most incredible scenery and some of the most exciting outdoor adventures in the province.

Interjections.

T. Shypitka: I hear some groans over here.

With more than 670 named mountains in the East Kootenay district to explore, it is a worthwhile destination, with hundreds of different trails. Also, with more than 340 kilometres of slopes, any ski or snowboard fanatic will have a great time hitting the mountains and enjoying the fresh powder.

[11:25 a.m.]

From the majestic Rocky Mountains to the crystal-clear lakes and rivers, the Kootenays are a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. We have many of the best hot springs in the province. The naturally heated waters are famous for their health and wellness benefits, with the history of these springs going back hundreds of years.

With some of the most diverse and large game species in North America, the East Kootenays are home to the best hunting, fishing and viewing opportunities anywhere. The East Kootenays are home to a variety of species that fly anglers covet, including rainbow trout, eastern brook char, kokanee, Rocky Mountain whitefish and bass. Perhaps most notably, it’s the home of the westslope cutthroat trout. Every summer fly fishers from around the globe travel to the town of Fernie to drift the renowned Elk River, stalking these big top water cutties.

We are also home to some of the best bull trout fishing in the world. A 200-kilometre stretch around Highway 3, between Cranbrook and Elkford, hosts the Kootenay River, Bull River, Elk River and the Wigwam River. All these tributaries provide an excellent fishing experience for bull trout.

If golf is your bag, there are nine excellent golf courses within 25 minutes of Cranbrook and Kimberley including the signature hole at the Shadow Mountain golf course, aptly known as The Monster, which features 606 yards from the tips and a dramatic 100-foot elevation drop. Along with awe-inspiring views, this hole is sure to leave its mark on any golfer.

Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling and ATV adventures, whitewater rafting, houseboating on the Koocanusa, biking, fat biking, world-class camping, horseback riding, trail running, disc golf, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, swimming, cliff diving, scenic float trips, cat skiing, heli-skiing, downhill skiing, ice skating, hockey and, of course, curling — this is just to name a few of the recreational opportunities in Kootenay East.

It’s not just the natural beauty that makes the Kootenays such a special place to visit. There’s also the people, the culture and the history that make this region unique. The resource sector built this area of the province well over 125 years ago, namely mining and forestry. But tourism in the Kootenays has been growing steadily over the years, thanks to the hard work and dedication of local businesses, tourism organizations and communities.

By attracting visitors from around the world, the Kootenays have been able to create jobs, stimulate economic growth and highlight the region’s unique culture and heritage, such as our rich First Nation cultures.

For example, the St. Eugene Golf Resort hotel and casino is a major example of First Nation heritage, culture and reconciliation. We are fiercely proud of the Ktunaxa people that took the site, a former residential school, and turned it into a world-class tourism destination — the only one of its kind in Canada, I might add. Visiting its interpretive centre is a must see.

Tourism is not just about economic benefits. It’s also about creating memorable experiences, fostering cultural exchange and promoting environmental sustainability. Wildlife management is crucial for tourism in British Columbia, as the province is known for its rich and abundant wildlife, such as bears, elk and moose. Effective wildlife management is essential to protect these species and ensure their survival as well as to maintain their natural habitats and ecosystems.

That is why I have introduced the Wildlife Amendment Act (No. 2), 2023. I would like all speakers to today’s motion to support second reading of this bill so we have the means to support the wildlife and habitat in this great province, which is critical to tourism.

We must continue to welcome visitors from around the world to our beautiful province. Let’s work together to make British Columbia an even more vibrant and welcoming destination.

R. Russell: It’s my pleasure to rise and join the ranks of others in the House here to speak in favour of this motion.

I don’t think I need to claim that my riding is the best in the province. I think I will just let it speak for itself. I think the truth will come out. Come and visit, and you will see the reality of that.

The member for Cariboo-Chilcotin placed the request to say he wished that there was some more support for these organizations. That’s a timely comment. I think that the funding that has been referenced earlier identifies support for over 1,800 different events around the province. I think that that’s a pretty remarkable investment in tourism across our province.

He also mentioned, which I appreciate, his gratitude to the organizers of those events around the province.

[11:30 a.m.]

I think it’s a testament to how much work…. Many of us in this place have probably spent some time organizing these events. It’s a testament to how much is happening across B.C. that we have that many events that are getting supported through this fairs, festivals and events funding. So my hands go up to all the hard work that is being done out there.

I also had a long list of things in my riding that I was going to speak to, which I think are amazing and I would love to highlight. I think instead…. One of the things you have heard me speak to in this place before is my passion for rural communities and economic diversification, which tourism is certainly a key part of. You’ve also heard me speak about regenerative agriculture and the value of that aspect of sustainable agriculture and the opportunities there.

One thing that was new to me, recently, in conversations with economic development organizations around the province, is a passion for regenerative tourism, which is a new space. I was not familiar with the term. It is the notion of going beyond the idea of tourism that simply doesn’t cost environmentally or socially. Regenerative tourism as a notion of actually giving something back into those environmental and social systems in which those tourism operations operate is a very exciting space to me, and it seems like there’s a lot of enthusiasm there.

I will take the opportunity to speak to some of those tourist events in my own riding. This weekend, for ex­ample, a very small land holder, Chris Van Hooydonk — just outside Oliver, runs Backyard Farm — is partnering with Road 13. They’re putting on a demonstration of the amazing food that he, as a chef, has been able to produce in partnership with the winery.

And then similarly, later this weekend, there is a seminar taking place at the District Wine Village, outside Oliver, which is a fascinating tourist opportunity bringing together small vineyards to be able to share their products with visitors. Certainly an opportunity there if you’re interested in learning a little bit more about wine tasting and how that’s done.

We have mining tourism in our area. In Princeton, the Copper Mountain mine has Mining Day coming up next month. It should be a highlight, an opportunity to see…. A member in this House has expressed some concern to me about how much capacity an electric vehicle can tow. Well, if you’re interested in seeing how much an electric truck can haul, have a look at what is being accomplished at Copper Mountain mine with their tramway, in partnership with the B.C. government, in terms of reducing emissions.

We have small-scale mining tourism, with operations like Rock Candy Mine near where I grew up myself. We have an enormous amount of wine tourism in the region. And those wineries, the grape production in the Okanagan particularly, have been hit hard this winter with a bitterly cold spell that killed a lot of the buds. So they would probably extra-appreciate the support.

That list goes on and on. The list that I was going to read out is only those tourist opportunities around natural resources. The reason I do that is to highlight how deeply embedded those opportunities are to diversify, in terms of those resource economies, the opportunities to bring more support into our communities.

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

J. Sturdy: Clearly, we all agree that British Columbia offers an enormous range of incredible experiences and scenes right across the whole province. Tourism in British Columbia is an important industry that contributes so much to our communities, our economy and our welcoming culture.

The revenue that is generated every year is vital for the continuation of services in our province, especially that export revenue, that new money that comes into the province as a result of international tourism.

[11:35 a.m.]

To start off the week-long celebration for tourism across Canada, I’d be remiss, like others in this House, if I didn’t take the opportunity to highlight some of the attractions in West Vancouver–Sea to Sky that generate a passion for nature and activities that contribute to the overall well-being of people’s mental health.

For example, some of the Indigenous-led Talaysay Tours offer unique Aboriginal cultural and ecotourism experiences in and around Vancouver, Squamish and the Sunshine Coast. The Sea to Sky Gondola offers incredible views, access to the alpine and promotes physical activity and healthy living. Just down the road from the gondola, the Britannia Mine Museum, a century-old gold and copper mine and mill, puts you in an old underground mining train through a historic haulage tunnel, with the opportunity to see Boom, which is an interactive experience that brings that old 20-storey mill No. 3 building back to life. It’s an amazing experience, if you haven’t been there.

I haven’t even got to Squamish yet, let alone Whistler, which is one of the biggest tourism attractions in British Columbia and home to the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Líl̓wat7úl Cultural Centre. These tourist options and opportunities fos­ter supportive and inclusive communities, stimulate job growth and allow everyone to connect with British Columbia’s people and landscapes.

What was a game changer and allowed much of this growth in tourism and growth in communities was the previous B.C. Liberal’s decision to make a $700 million investment in the Sea to Sky Highway improvement project. It was truly a game-changer. Not only did the expansion improve the region’s accessibility, travel times and public safety, but it also provided a tremendous expansion to economic opportunities in Squamish, Whistler, Pemberton and even into Lillooet and the Bridge River valley.

As we all know, with growth come challenges. You’ve probably all heard me rail on endlessly about the need for regional transit in the Sea to Sky but also around the province in general. Tourism is one of the many reasons that the Sea to Sky communities needs the province to take action.

Since 2017, local governments, in partnership with First Nations, have been advocating to implement regional transit services to provide transit options from Lillooet and Mount Currie all the way to West Vancouver. The first step needed is a change to the B.C. transit legislation that would allow not only local government elected officials but First Nation representation on transit commissions. I’ve put forward such a private member’s bill several times now, but sadly, this government has yet to act.

We must improve transit not just in the Sea to Sky region but around the province. Recently, a British television program highlighted how difficult it is to get around our province. It’s not just the lack of bus services but increasingly looking at road maintenance and, of course, ferry services as well.

While many sectors have struggled with a labour shortage, B.C. Ferries has repeatedly seen cancellation after cancellation, which are being blamed almost solely on staff shortages. Government has the tools to make changes that would reduce staff shortages, yet day after day, we hear more and more stories about British Columbians and tourists being stranded without transport to and from communities up and down the coast.

We have such an incredible tourism industry in our province, but it’s important that we work continuously to improve these services as the sector faces increased pressures. The province has an important role in creating the space in timely permitting decisions and supporting business through a range of policies that don’t crush the willingness for small business to take risk and to make investments so visitors, be they domestic or international, have the great experience in this province that they deserve.

B. D’Eith: It’s Tourism Week in British Columbia. B.C., of course, is an incredible tourist destination — for ex­ample, skiing in Whistler, boating in the Okanagan, visiting the Legislature here in Victoria, camping in my home town in Golden Ears Park, seeing incredible music festivals in the Kootenays or visiting the magical land of Haida Gwaii.

Tourism is a huge contributor to B.C.’s economy. Before the pandemic, there were $22 billion per annum generated by the tourism industry. I do want to thank the entire tourism industry, who pivoted during the pandemic to keep us safe.

You did an incredible job during a very, very difficult time.

Of course, we all worked together during that period. There was a tourism task force brought together with leaders from business, labour, First Nations and non-profits to seek innovative ideas on how to recover from this really tough time.

[11:40 a.m.]

Fifty million dollars was allocated to the economic re­covery plan, $100 million to the community economic recovery infrastructure plan, $300 million to the small business recovery grants that tourism companies could apply for, and, of course, there were hiring incentives, be­cause we knew there were challenges with labour, to stimulate growth in the labour pool. Restaurants, for example, were able to purchase liquor at wholesale prices, and that has been retained into the future.

This summer will be the first summer back with full participation after the pandemic border restrictions. We’re anticipating cruise ships to come back in a record way, with 700 cruises and over 2.23 million estimated visitors. Air travel is increasing, with more than 19 million domestic and international passengers passing through Vancouver International Airport in ’22, which, of course, brings benefits to our accommodation sector.

As the Parliamentary Secretary for Arts and Film to the Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport…. We’re under that ministry. It was one of the hardest sectors to be hit. All of them, whether it was tourism, arts, culture or sport…. Fairs, festivals and events were actually closed for a lengthy period of time. In many cases, the first to be shut down and the last to reopen.

These are so important to our communities, to our regional and provincial events, and also very important for our tourism recovery. They’re just now starting to recover, and they’re facing incredible challenges with increased supply costs due to global supply chain challenges, loss of key labour and volunteers, increased talent and artist costs, and audiences that are reluctant to come back or slow to return to full capacity.

That’s why we were very pleased to renew the B.C. fairs, festival and events fund. This $30 million fund was committed to hundreds of organizations in every community, and it will have a massive impact in terms of returning events, and, in some cases, will be the deciding factor as to whether an event or festival returns.

For example, we heard very clearly from festivals like the Vancouver Folk Music Festival, who was looking at cancelling their event in 2023. After hearing that they would be receiving this funding, they green-lit their program for the summer. This is happening all over the province.

This hits home. There were 19 events that were funded by the recent round in Mission and Maple Ridge, and these are important local events, important events for every community.

In our area: the Mission Folk Music Festival, Arts Alive festival, the Historic Motor Races festival, the Bear Mountain Trail and bike race, African Culture Harvest Festival and the 2023 Candlelight Parade in Mission. In Maple Ridge: the Rock Maple Ridge festival, Country Fest, Paradym Dance Challenge tournament, the Caribbean Festival, Celebrate the Night, the Canadian Multicultural Day Festival, Music on the Wharf and Earth Day.

Now, the pandemic created a lot of hardship, and people were having to think outside the box. We’re really looking at cultural tourism as a real opportunity for British Columbia.

We just met last week with the film industry and many others during Creative Industries Week. We talked about things like how important film tourism, for example, might be. We think of New Zealand with The Lord of the Rings, and everyone going down there to visit Hobbiton — the big pilgrimage. But even in Mission, we have Rocko’s Diner, which is incredibly popular with young folks because of the Riverdale series.

We’re talking about how, when we build back better, we have a real opportunity to capitalize on the international interest in film and television locations in British Columbia. I think about that. We’re going to get The Last of Us season 2. The biggest production in the world. What a great opportunity for cultural tourism.

The future of B.C.’s tourism is bright, and I’m confident that we will rebuild this sector even better than before.

B. Stewart: It’s a pleasure to stand up and speak about the annual Tourism Week in British Columbia. That brings together all tourism partners to celebrate British Columbians, the destinations, the tourism businesses and employees from across the province.

This year’s theme, “The power of tourism,” highlights the tremendous benefits that tourism brings to our prov­ince, as it plays a vital role in enhancing the quality of life for British Columbians, supporting well-paying jobs, preserving our culture and our heritage and driving economic growth.

I want to take this opportunity to highlight the importance of tourism in Kelowna and the Central Okanagan and the many incredible experiences we have to offer — not to take away from all the other members that have talked about the best place on earth to visit.

[11:45 a.m.]

Whether you are a foodie or a wine connoisseur, the region’s restaurants, wineries, craft breweries, cideries and distilleries will leave your taste buds craving more. In the Okanagan, there are over 9,617 acres of vines, accounting for 86 percent of the B.C. vineyard acreage. It’s home to more than 222 wineries in the valley, out of 336 in the province. So take a tour. Indulge in the wine and the delicious seasonal products grown right in the valley.

For those of you looking for more adventure, Kelowna boasts many other activities, like the trails. Hike to the top of a mountain. Visit the historic Myra Canyon trestles. Take to the water for endless activities. Relax on one of the many beaches and soak up the sun.

If you’re a golfer, there are more than 19 different golf courses in the Central Okanagan and 110,000 yards of golf courses. With over 2,000 hours of sunshine in an average year, Kelowna hosts more than 40 national and international sporting events.

So as you can see, tourism has an important role in our community, and Tourism Week underscores the importance of continuing to support this sector, as it is one of the hardest-hit by COVID-19 and the pandemic and the provincewide impact.

Prior to the pandemic, this industry was a juggernaut, providing more than 161,000 jobs and generating $22.3 billion of revenue in the province. However, according to Destination BC, in 2021, for the industry, the numbers are still depressed at $13.5 billion. This is a significant drop from pre-pandemic levels and has left many tourism operators struggling.

It’s not just the revenue that’s impacted. It’s the workers that have been hard hit as well. They continue to deal with the affordability crisis, with stories of some of the hotels having to house workers in unoccupied rooms, while B.C. is already short 20,000 hotel rooms. Short-term rentals continue, also, as an unregulated sector and remove significant accommodation for B.C. tourism workers.

Furthermore, businesses are struggling to find workers domestically and internationally, with backlogs in the temporary foreign worker registry of over 9,600, and a five-month wait. Other uphill battles these businesses are facing include the increase of cost in food, taxes and nearly a 20 percent increase in their WorkSafeBC premiums at a time when they can barely afford it. It’s a huge burden for the industry that is already struggling to keep afloat.

As if that’s not enough, 85 percent of the restaurants had to borrow money to stay open during the pandemic, with the majority still trying to pay off those debts. We need to take action to help the tourism and hospitality industry to recover.

However, the current NDP government’s lack of support, coupled with high taxes and red tape, is hindering the sector’s recovery. Instead of focusing on creating a business-friendly environment, the government is stifling growth by making it difficult for businesses to operate. Where are the solutions for repeated vandalism attacks, theft and drug use on the streets in our tourism communities?

To help this sector, the government must address these barriers that are impeding growth and create environmental certainty that will attract and retain tourists, leading to more jobs and economic growth.

As we celebrate Tourism Week, I’m proud of the tourism industry’s resilience and the determination. I am confident that it will continue to play a vital role in our province’s economic and social well-being. Together, let us work to find the solutions for a brighter future for the tourism sector.

S. Chant: Thank you for the opportunity to speak to the motion brought forward by the member for Nelson-Creston: “Be it resolved that this House celebrates this week as Tourism Week and recognizes the valuable economic and cultural contributions that tourism brings to B.C.”

Today I’m speaking from the territories of the lək̓ʷəŋən people, the Esquimalt and the Songhees.

I work, live and learn in my beautiful riding of North Vancouver–Seymour, situated in the unceded territory of the Coast Salish, specifically the Tsleil-Waututh and Squamish Nations.

I’m grateful for the opportunity to be on lands that have been stewarded for time immemorial by those who lived here first.

[11:50 a.m.]

I’m going to speak to the intersection of tourism and accessibility in British Columbia. As the Parliamentary Secretary for Accessibility, I am really proud of the work that has been done by communities, non-profits, the tourism sector and others to promote inclusion in the tourism sector of British Columbia.

As you have heard from the rest of the speakers, we have much to offer and much to celebrate in B.C. The natural wonders of our oceans, forests, lakes, rivers and hot springs bring many people outdoors, whether they be from another community, another province or another part of the world. Our cities, towns and communities also have a lot to offer, whether it be in historical value; unique, high-quality products; culture and diversity; or just the novelty of a different place to visit.

Now, let’s overlay those offerings with accessibility for those who need a variety of accommodations in order to be able to enjoy what B.C. has to offer. From museums that have low-stimulation days to encourage those with autism to come out and learn about the history and culture of an area through the sit-ski programs at many of our mountain resorts to whale watching on the coastline, major efforts have been made through the past decade to reduce barriers and to allow access for everyone, regardless of ability.

[Mr. Speaker in the chair.]

A remarkable entity that has made accessibility its mandate since 1998 is Power To Be. This non-profit organization creates access to nature for youth, families and adults living with cognitive, physical, financial or social barriers. Through three programs, dreams of inclusive adventures, wilderness wellness and catalyst for good, they support folks to access the magic of the outdoors. Their diverse programs offer opportunities to explore, learn and connect in safe, fun and inclusive environments.

Inclusive adventures is focused on building skills and creating positive outdoor experiences. Wilderness wellness offers experiences that nurture well-being and personal growth. Catalyst for good develops projects for social change, which are flexible in order to meet specific needs.

Some of the programs that Power to Be implements are in our spectacular B.C. parks. I had the opportunity last month to walk alongside as they demonstrated the use of a mobility assist device that allows access to hiking trails, this one on the base of Mount Seymour. The apparatus has wheels and also carrying bars on the side so that a person with significant mobility loss can be out on trails with support by family, friends and/or volunteers.

B.C. Parks has made a commitment to inclusion, in collaboration with a variety of community partners. It’s a pledge to work towards a provincial parks system that is welcoming and meaningfully accessible to everybody. Recently, $3.6 million were earmarked towards accessibility and inclusion over the next three years and will be used to upgrade facilities including washrooms, parking lots and trails to an accessible standard.

These are just a few examples that illustrate B.C.’s commitment towards barrier-free access to all the wonderful adventures our tourism industry has to offer. As the Parliamentary Secretary for Accessibility, I am so impressed by the work that’s been done and also by the things that are to come.

Tourism in B.C. is a valuable, value-added resource and is not just for international visitors. It’s also for all of us to enjoy, barrier-free.

S. Chant moved adjournment of debate.

Motion approved.

H. Yao: I seek leave to make an introduction.

Leave granted.

Introductions by Members

H. Yao: I would like to ask the chamber to welcome Gleneagle Secondary School’s grade 10 students. It’s being led by Michelle Hernandez of the grade 10 class.

On behalf of the MLA for Coquitlam–Burke Mountain, we welcome you. Thank you so much for joining us today.

Hon. J. Whiteside moved adjournment of the House.

Motion approved.

Mr. Speaker: This House stands adjourned until 1:30 p.m. today.

The House adjourned at 11:54 a.m.