Hansard - Monday, March 10, 2025 Morning, Issue No. 20

Jody Toor: Today I rise to introduce a dear friend of mine, Michelle Mollineaux, who is also one of our colleagues and a candidate for Richmond-Steveston.

I just want to give her a warm welcome. Hopefully, all members can join to make her feel welcome today.

Gavin Dew: I rise to recognize Alex Sagert, who is in the House with us today. Alex is a community advocate and president of the Conservative’s Richmond-Steveston Riding Association.

He’s a strong community leader who organizes the annual Steveston Santa Claus Parade, and other great events in Richmond, while advocating to Richmond city council for better options for drug and mental health issues. He also just finished a stint as a member of the organizing committee for the Invictus Games, as the logistics and transportation coordinator.

Please welcome Alex.

Orders of the Day

Private Members’ Statements

World Tuberculosis Day
and Tuberculosis Awareness

Jessie Sunner: I rise today to recognize World Tuberculosis Day, taking place on March 24.

This day is not just a reminder of a global health challenge; it is deeply personal to me. In 2016, while in my last year of law school, I was diagnosed with tuberculosis. Like many others, I didn’t even know it was possible to get tuberculosis here in Canada.

At first, I didn’t recognize the symptoms for what they were — chest pain, exhaustion, unintended weight loss. I assumed it was just the stress of law school taking its toll, but within weeks, these symptoms worsened, so I finally sought medical help.

For months, I went from doctor to doctor, trying to get answers, but tuberculosis isn’t always the first condition that comes to mind when diagnosing a patient, especially here in Canada. It is often seen as a disease of the past, something that doesn’t exist here anymore. Because of this, I was initially diagnosed with pneumonia, then double-lung pneumonia and then as having a collapsed lung.

[Mable Elmore in the chair.]

When treatment for these diagnoses didn’t work, I continued to advocate for myself, and after six long months of uncertainty and worsening symptoms, the diagnosis finally came: tuberculosis.

I was grateful to finally have a diagnosis, but the road to recovery was not an easy one. Tuberculosis treatment is long. It required nine months of strong medication, often with difficult side effects, all while dealing with the stigma attached to tuberculosis, which made it a rather isolating experience.

What stood out to me was how little people knew about the disease. There were so many misconceptions. People assumed that tuberculosis was long eradicated, that it only affected certain parts of the world or that it only affected certain populations in our society. I realized that awareness was just as important as medical treatment in fighting this disease.

Even after completing treatment, tuberculosis does not simply go away from your life. It leaves lasting impacts. To this day, I still experience chest pain and have limited lung capacity, and that is a constant reminder of the battle that I fought.

I’m also carrying something else from this experience, and that’s a deep appreciation for the health care workers who helped me through it. I’m grateful to the doctors, the nurses and the specialists who finally identified my illness. I’m grateful for the care and the compassion I received throughout my treatment, and I’m grateful to have access to the best medical system in the entire world, because for many people in the world, that’s just not the case.

[10:10 a.m.]

Tuberculosis is not just a health issue; it is a human rights issue. The reality is that tuberculosis does not affect all communities equally. In Canada, tuberculosis rates remain unacceptably high in Indigenous and remote communities. Globally tuberculosis disproportionately affects those living in poverty, overcrowded housing and marginalized communities. People who already face barriers to health care are the ones who are most at risk, yet tuberculosis is curable and preventable.

No one should suffer or lose their life because of where they live, their income level or systemic barriers that prevent them from getting the care they need when they need it. That is why we must continue this fight, because access to timely diagnosis, life-saving treatment and proper health care is not a privilege; it is a fundamental human right.

Thankfully, there is hope. Thanks to the work of organizations like the B.C. Lung Foundation and the B.C. Centre for Disease Control, more people than ever are being diagnosed early, treated effectively and given the chance to recover. Advances in medicine and global efforts to eliminate tuberculosis have saved millions of lives, but the fight is not over.

I often think about how different my story might have been if I had not had the access to care I received. What if I had not been diagnosed in time? What if I had not been able to advocate for myself? There are people in this province, in this country and in our world who are still in this position today, searching for answers, struggling for care and fighting for their lives against a disease that we have the power to eliminate.

On World Tuberculosis Day, let us recognize the progress we have made, the challenges that remain and the people — the health care professionals, the researchers, the advocates and the survivors — who are working to build a future where tuberculosis is no longer a threat.

When we fight tuberculosis, we are fighting for health care as a human right. That is a fight worth continuing.

Cole Iszak and Back on Track
Women’s Recovery Initiative

Linda Hepner: I rise today to speak about a special man and a special place. Cole Iszak, who I acknowledged in the gallery earlier this morning, is a single dad to Josiah. They lost a much-loved partner and mom many months ago.

Cole’s story starts some 14 years ago when he reinvented himself at a Surrey recovery home. Shortly after that, his life’s purpose was born, and he founded Back on Track, which today has expanded to nine licensed nurturing homes in Surrey where people come to heal.

I first met Cole some seven years ago when I was Surrey’s mayor, and I quickly learned he was a man on a mission. His mission is to not only change lives but to literally save them. I am proud of the work he does, and our community is better because he is in it. Cole knows firsthand the struggles of addiction and, more importantly, the power of recovery. This is not about a program; it’s about a lifeline built by someone who has walked the same life path.

Today I wanted to highlight a Back on Track initiative that I have in my riding of Surrey–Serpentine River. It’s a place of transformation and second chances and is called the Northstar Castle. What makes it different than the other Back on Track initiatives is that this is solely supporting women pursuing a better life through recovery.

I thought it appropriate, after International Women’s Day, to highlight an effort that empowers women when they most need that sense of self and empowerment over their lives. There is only one women’s recovery facility for every 15 we have for men. We could and we should have more. The Castle has a wait-list. It provides a safe and a structured home where women can connect, rebuild, find employment and reclaim their futures. The impact reaches beyond the individual. The community itself grows stronger.

[10:15 a.m.]

Consider Desiree, who surrendered to recovery after two decades either deep in addiction or locked up in jail. She now says: “Because of the love and the support I found at Back on Track over two years ago, my daughter now has a mother, my face now has a smile, and my life now has a future.”

These days, Desiree works full-time with Cole and has become a recognized beacon of hope for the next person on the wait-list to get into the Northstar Castle. This success story is illustrative that recovery is possible, and, with the right support, women can not only heal but find ways to pay it forward and give back, just as Desiree has done and just as the founder of the Castle has done.

I am proud to see Northstar in my riding, and I commend all those seeking a better path for their lives. I’m going to close with a comment from a man I’ll call Pops, who says of recovery: “I have a new lease on life, a place to call home and a family from whom I have been estranged for nearly 30 years.”

Thank you, Cole, and to all those who do this important work.

International Day
for the Elimination of
Racial Discrimination

Rohini Arora: I’d like to begin by acknowledging that I’m speaking today on the lands of the lək̓ʷəŋən, including the Songhees and Esquimalt Nations.

I stand today to recognize an important day that impacts everyone and serves as a reminder that the path to inclusion is one that involves us all — a path not carved by tolerance but of acceptance of our differences and, further, a recognition of the uniqueness of our intersecting identities and experiences.

Guided by the international convention on the elimination of all forms of racial discrimination, the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination recognizes that the injustices and prejudices fuelled by racial discrimination take place every day. Observed annually on March 21, it commemorates the day police in Sharpeville, South Africa, opened fire and killed 69 people at a peaceful demonstration against apartheid-passed laws in 1960.

While much progress has been made here, First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples and racialized and religious minority communities in Canada continue to face racism and discrimination every day. This day serves as a call to action for individuals, organizations and all levels of government to actively work to eliminate all forms of racial discrimination, injustice, systemic racism and hate, recommitting efforts to ensure all people are respected and have equal access and opportunity to be safe and to succeed.

The United Nations General Assembly reiterates that all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights and have the potential to contribute constructively to the development and well-being of their societies. In its most recent resolution, the General Assembly also emphasized that any doctrine of racial superiority is scientifically false, morally condemnable, socially unjust and dangerous, and must be rejected, together with theories that attempt to determine the existence of separate human races.

We might be different colours of the crayon box, but make no mistake, we are one race, the human race. I know the members on the other side like to say we are scripted, but let me be clear. We, like you, are passionate about the work that happens here, and I wrote this myself.

To my siblings in First Nations and Métis communities: you are land stewards, healers and knowledge-keepers. You care for Mother Earth through practices of sustainability. You take only what you need when harvesting and leave enough so that the medicine can continue to grow and help others when they need it.

[10:20 a.m.]

You are thoughtful and consider seven generations forward in your decision-making. You are sacred, bold and brilliant. Your way of life is so entrenched in the caretaking of our planet, carrying out the duties of our or your Creator. I see the revitalization of your ways, and it warms my heart to see a little girl learning to throat sing with her mom, a multi-generational family sharing in their traditional dance or a child speaking their language with pride. May you continue to flourish, and may you have your land back.

Sorry, folks. My pet died today, and I’m really feeling it.

To my brown, Black and racialized siblings who share in their own traditions: you are part of what makes this province so unique — the language, dance, ceremony and folklore. You are sacred, and you matter. You are hard-working and resilient, and your focus on families is awe-inspiring. Many of you came here for a better life and sacrificed to ensure your children have the opportunities that you didn’t. You are all remarkable, loving and generous.

To the parents whose hands look rough from a lifetime of work: we are reminded every day of the sacrifices you have made. I see you all, regardless of who you are, where you come from, how you pray or who you love.

I will finish with these final words, and I encourage you all to let it sink in. Diversity is a fact, equity is the work, and inclusion will be the outcome.

Short-Term Rental Property
and Tourism Accommodation

Scott McInnis: It’s an honour to stand before you all today and speak about the most breathtaking and awe-inspiring riding in this province, Columbia River–Revelstoke.

The riding I represent is home to four of Canada’s most spectacular national parks: Mount Revelstoke, Yoho, Kootenay and Glacier National. These protected landscapes offer a sanctuary for wildlife and a playground for residents and visitors alike. Whether you’re hiking among ancient cedars, skiing world-class slopes or simply taking in the serenity of our alpine vistas, it’s impossible not to feel a deep sense of a connection to this land.

Columbia River–Revelstoke also hosts five of the province’s 14 resort municipalities. These communities are known for their world-class skiing, breathtaking mountain bike trails and endless outdoor recreation opportunities. Again, whether it’s the thrill of heli-skiing in the winter or the tranquility of casting a fly on the St. Mary River in the summer, we are fortunate to live in a place that offers adventure in every season.

Tourism is the lifeblood of our communities. The visitors who come to experience our stunning landscapes support our local businesses, from restaurants to guiding services, grocery stores and retail shops. Without a thriving tourism industry, our economy would suffer greatly, and we must continue to support initiatives that bring people to our region while preserving the very environment that makes it so special.

I want to address this government’s new short-term rental registration policy. Honestly, I understand what the government is trying to do. However, it was poorly thought-out and implemented.

Surrey and Burnaby have much different housing markets, demographics and needs than Golden or Invermere do in the East Kootenays. There has been no focus on the needs of individual communities with the registry, especially rural resort municipalities. In rural resort municipalities, short-term rentals aren’t just an option; they’re a necessity. These towns rely on tourism to survive, and there simply aren’t enough accommodation options for communities which boast populations of only 5,000 to 8,000 residents.

These short-term rental operators aren’t faceless corporations who buy up local real estate to boost shareholder profits. These are young families who saved up for years and used equity in their primary residence to buy a rental. They’re seniors supplementing their modest income, having worked for decades to pay off their mortgage.

[10:25 a.m.]

Now, instead of focusing on providing great, local, short-term accommodations, these community members are slammed with combined fees of well over $1,000. The result? Many of these operators will be taking down their listings, some before March break. This will be catastrophic — cancelled bookings and families who choose to go elsewhere for their getaway.

Local governments already addressed the STR registration issue. Regional districts and municipalities implemented licensing and registration fees some time ago. But this government feels like they’ve been left out and now have tacked on a second registration fee of up to $600. There’s no return for rental operators whatsoever from this provincial registry. None. This is a shakedown, plain and simple.

Here’s the kicker. The government claims this will solve the housing crisis. They say they’re levelling the playing field between short- and long-term rentals and providing more homes for families. Instead, why aren’t they looking at adjusting something like the step code, which would bring down the cost of homes dramatically? Instead, they are just adding another fee, because heaven forbid, they miss an opportunity to collect a buck.

Let’s call this what it is, a cash grab. Like most government cash grabs, it’s being sold to us as a solution to a problem they themselves created.

The housing crisis didn’t come from short-term rentals. It came from years of government inaction, bad planning and a refusal to get out of the way of responsible development. Rather than fix that, they found an easier target: small business owners in rural B.C. Rural B.C. is struggling mightily under this NDP government. Policies need to make sense, and this one certainly does not.

I got into politics for the sole reason of providing strong representation for my home. This new short-term rental registration is making those who provide necessary accommodation in my communities very upset. End the shakedown, end these registry fees, and don’t forget about us in the Kootenays, who are vital to this province.

Nowruz Celebrations

Jennifer Blatherwick: Living in Coquitlam-Maillardville, I am very fortunate to have the opportunity to share in so many beautiful traditions from around the world, including the upcoming celebration of Nowruz.

I would like to gratefully acknowledge the guidance of my constituent, Negar, who shared her feelings and her family’s story and this poem about Nowruz by Sa’adi Shirazi.

All credit to Negar for her guidance. Any errors are mine.

“Bahr ahmad bahde sobh ho boo ye Norouz,

Be kaammeh doostan o bakht eh pirooz,

Mobarak baadat, een sahl o hammeh sahl

Homahyoon bahdat, een rooz o hammeh rooz.”

“It has arrived, the wind of morning and the smell of Norouz,

With the sweetness of friends, and good fortune,

I wish you blessings this year, and every year,

May this day be prosperous, and every day that follows.”

[Farsi text provided by Jennifer Blatherwick.]

Nowruz marks the spring equinox and the beginning of the new year for many communities, like Iranians, Tajiks, Afghans, the Kurdish people, Azeris, Baháʼís, Ismailis and Zoroastrians. It is a cherished day, a time when the spring breeze breathes life and hope into a brand-new day.

To start off the celebrations, we can leap over the fires of Chaharshanbe Suri, leaving behind the darkness of the past year, letting the flame ignite within us the promise of hope. I think we could all use some of that in times like these.

I’d like to share with you Negar’s story. Her family immigrated to Canada in 2015. At ten years old, she stood at the gates of the Tehran airport, waving goodbye to her family, thinking that becoming a Canadian would mean sacrificing everything: her family, her culture, her identity and all the traditions she cherished.

Today she is celebrating ten years of being an Iranian-Canadian. To this day, she and her family set up the haft sin table and celebrate Nowruz, keeping the fire of tradition and connection alive. Her family gathers to drink saffron chai as they read the wise words of Hafez at the haft sin table. They visit the bank to collect crisp dollar bills, ready to hand out 80 to the young ones.

Though their hearts ache for the loved ones whose absence feels particularly profound in this season, their dinner table remains full, filled with the warmth of friends who have become chosen family.

I want to acknowledge the open hearts of those who reach out to share their traditions and bring the light of celebrations like Nowruz to a wider circle: Negar, who took the time to tell me about her experience and check my pronunciation; Amir and his family, who have shared many meals and celebrations with my family; Honieh, who insists that I dance because food, dance and tea are Persian love languages; and Mojgan, who is an extraordinary person.

[10:30 a.m.]

I hope that all of you have the chance to have someone like Mojgan in your life, because she is like the spirit of spring, like Nowruz in a person. She realized there are many Farsi-speaking seniors in our community who felt disconnected and alone, and the loneliness epidemic amongst our seniors is so real, especially when there can be an additional isolation of a language or culture barrier. So she organized to bring people together to share time, to enjoy conversation, to do activities together.

For years, she dedicated herself to building a place where Farsi-speaking seniors could gather to celebrate events like Nowruz — occasions and traditions that bind us together in happiness. Of course, Reihane and her husband, Ali, give themselves to raise up others, organizing and working every week to ensure that over 4,000 people in our community are fed.

The spirit of Nowruz is that of resilience, renewal and community. This spirit continues to reverberate joy throughout the world, as it has for over 3,000 years. If you can, please come to the Tri-City Iranian Cultural Society’s Chaharshanbe Suri festival in Coquitlam on Tuesday, March 18. Join many of us in our community as we jump over the fire to usher out the old, cold year and bring in the next with the warmth of spring.

Har ruzetan Nowruz, Nowruzetan piruz.

Happy Nowruz.

Shuswap History and Heritage Sites

David Williams: There are events in history that we may not always agree with, but our pioneering past should be embraced and preserved not forgotten or cancelled.

History teaches us valuable lessons through its challenges, hardships and diverse cultures that shaped this province into what it is today. Our region brought about people from all over the world, adding to the rich Indigenous culture that existed long before European settlement. It is essential that we recognize, protect and celebrate these legacies to ensure that future generations understand our shared past.

In my riding of Salmon Arm–Shuswap, we are fortunate to have remarkable heritage sites that preserve the history of our region. Today I rise to recognize two such destinations and the dedicated volunteers and staff who work tirelessly to maintain them, despite ongoing financial struggles. These individuals embody the pioneering spirit, ensuring that our historical landmarks remain vibrant and educational.

The discovery of gold in the Cariboo in 1858 forever changed British Columbia. Tens of thousands of prospectors flocked to the province in search of wealth, but few struck gold. However, all of them needed food. Between 1858 and 1868, over 22,000 cattle were driven north from the U.S. border through the Okanagan Valley to feed the miners.

As the colony grew, British officials encouraged settlers to establish farms and ranches by offering land at low prices, often under the false premise that the land was unoccupied. One such pioneer was Cornelius O’Keefe, who founded the O’Keefe Ranch near Armstrong in 1867. Initially a cattle ranch, the site later housed the region’s first post office and a general store, growing to 12,000 acres by 1900.

As economic priorities shifted from ranching to orchards, O’Keefe sold much of his land in 1907. His family continued to live and ranch on the site until financial struggles led them to open it as a heritage site in 1967. Today it is operated by the O’Keefe Ranch and Interior Heritage Society.

The ranch preserves 19th-century buildings, artifacts and archives, offering educational programs and historic exhibits. However, it faces financial challenges, and its historic structures require urgent maintenance and revitalization. Without proper funding, this valuable piece of history is at risk. I urge the provincial government to recognize the significance of this site and provide the financial support needed to preserve it for future generations.

[10:35 a.m.]

Another historical treasure in our region is the R.J. Haney Heritage Village and Museum, the largest heritage village in the Shuswap. This site showcases the region’s rich natural environment and agricultural history through immersive exhibits and educational programs.

The property was originally owned by R.J. Haney, a pioneer who moved from Winnipeg to Salmon Arm in 1902. He built his first house in 1910, which remains on the site today. The heritage village was established in 1989 around Haney’s house and two relocated historical structures, Mount Ida Church and Broadview School.

Since the construction of the Montebello Museum in 2017, additional replica and historical buildings have been added, bringing the total to 24. Set on 20 acres of scenic farmland, the village includes interactive exhibits, a children’s discovery centre, walking trails and the popular Villains and Vittles Dinner Theatre, which runs during the summer months.

Like many cultural institutions, R.J. Haney Heritage Village has struggled financially, receiving limited provincial funding since the COVID-19 shutdown. The pandemic had a devastating impact on the heritage sites, and recovery has been slow. Despite these challenges, the staff and volunteers continue to provide exceptional educational experiences and preserve the region’s history.

I encourage everyone to visit, explore the exhibits and support this vital historical site. Enjoy a meal at the Sprig of Heather restaurant, famous for rhubarb crisp, or take in a dinner theatre show. These experiences not only enrich our understanding of the past, but they also contribute to the preservation of our shared heritage.

Sites like the O’Keefe Ranch and R.J. Haney Heritage Village offer more than just history lessons. They are community gathering places, economic drivers and sources of regional pride. Without them, we risk losing tangible connections to our past.

I urge my colleagues and the public to recognize the value of these historical sites and ensure that they receive the proper financial support needed to thrive.

Our past is not just history; it is the foundation of our future. Let’s work together to protect and celebrate it.

Deputy Speaker: According to the order paper, we will look to the member for Langley-Willowbrook to move second reading of Bill M204, Perinatal and Postnatal Mental Health Strategy Act.

Second Reading of Bills

Bill M204 — Perinatal and Postnatal
Mental Health Strategy Act

Jody Toor: I move that Bill M204 be now read a second time.

I am privileged to stand here today to introduce Bill M204, the Perinatal and Postnatal Mental Health Strategy Act, in its second reading.

I’m standing here today not just as an MLA but as a mother of two beautiful daughters, someone who understands firsthand that pregnancy and new parenthood are life-changing experiences. They bring incredible joy but also can be mentally, emotionally and physically demanding.

Despite how common prenatal and postnatal mental health struggles are, too many women suffer in silence. They feel isolated, overwhelmed and without the support they need. This bill is about changing that. The reality of prenatal and postnatal mental health is that one in five women in B.C. experience prenatal or postnatal mental health struggles — things like postpartum depression, anxiety, birth trauma and, in rare cases, postpartum psychosis. Yet the majority of these women don’t get the help they need.

According to Statistics Canada, only 32 percent of mothers struggling with postpartum depression or anxiety receive any treatment. Thirty-nine percent got therapy; 38 percent were prescribed medication. Just 23 percent received both. These numbers indicate that our system isn’t meeting the needs of new mothers and families.

This isn’t just about mothers, though they are most impacted. Partners and fathers can also experience postnatal mental health struggles. These challenges, strained relationships, affect financial stability and impact child development. If we ignore this issue, the effects ripple out across families, workplaces and communities.

[10:40 a.m.]

There are gaps we need to fix. Right now there are three major problems.

A lack of public awareness. Too many parents don’t recognize what they’re going through as a medical issue.

Not enough community support. If you live in the right place and have the right benefits, you might find the care, but for many, that’s not an option.

Inconsistent training for health care providers. Mental health screening isn’t standard practice in prenatal care, and that means problems go undiagnosed.

Bill M204 is about fixing those gaps by ensuring a coordinated, accountable approach to prenatal and postnatal mental health care.

The Minister of Health will be responsible for developing a provincial strategy that ensures universal access to prenatal and postnatal mental health care, expands community-based mental health services so that parents can get help where they live, provides specialized training for health care providers so they recognize the signs earlier, increases awareness so families know what help is available and improves grief support for those facing pregnancy loss or infant loss.

This bill brings the issue to the forefront, ensuring we move beyond discussion to real, measurable actions. It establishes clear implementation and accountability measures. The strategy must be developed within one year. Consultations will be done with the appropriate individuals and groups.

It must be reviewed and updated every two years. Progression must be reported publicly so there is no way to hide inaction. A full bill review will happen every five years to ensure we’re not just setting goals, but we’re meeting them.

This is a step forward. It’s about making sure prenatal and postnatal mental health is integrated in health care. This bill is about supporting mothers, fathers, partners and families and the entire communities. It’s about the mother who struggles in silence because she doesn’t know where to turn and where to get the help she needs when she needs it. It’s about the father who feels overwhelmed and unsupported in his new role. It’s about the families who suffer because prenatal mental health isn’t taken seriously enough.

This bill sets a foundation for change. It makes sure that mothers, parents and families in British Columbia have access to the care they need when they need it.

Susie Chant: Before I begin, I would like to acknowledge that I am currently staying, working and learning on the unceded territories of the lək̓ʷəŋən, specifically the Songhees and Esquimalt people.

North Vancouver–Seymour, my riding where I live, work and learn, is in the territory of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh and the səlilwətaɬ Nations.

I rise today to address Bill M204, Perinatal and Postnatal Mental Health Strategy Act. The concepts that make up the framework of the bill are reasonable, but it does not necessarily speak to effective actions that support mental health of women before, during and after pregnancy.

I fully acknowledge that maternal mental health is critically important to the mother, to the infant and to the rest of the family, and I would like to outline some of the current mechanisms in place that already have funding, staffing and resource allocation.

I have children. They’re a little elderly now, relatively speaking. They’re 32 and 27. However, at the time that my first daughter was born, I was living overseas. I was very lucky. When I became pregnant, I was working in a nursing college, so I delegated my pregnancy to somebody that knew what was going on, to the obstetrical people. My area was psychiatry and critical care, so obstetrics and stuff were not in my wheelhouse.

When my baby was due, I was very fortunate that the midwives lived approximately half a block from me. Two days after I got home, my husband was sent across to the house to get a midwife to come and talk to me because I could not stop crying, and my baby could not stop crying. We were both very miserable. What we determined shortly thereafter was that she was a colicky baby.

That made us miserable for about six months, but at least I knew what was going on. I absolutely remember being completely miserable and having people around me to say: “This is how you work through it. This is what you can do. Let me take the baby for a little while, and you get out for a walk. Let’s do this. Let’s do that.” To support my husband and to support my baby.

[10:45 a.m.]

Then the next one came along five years later. I didn’t learn, did I. The next one was much easier because I knew a lot more. Also, she arrived a heck of a lot faster. I wasn’t even in the hospital before she almost made herself present. That was a different story.

Anyway, with that one, I was living back in North Vancouver, and I had the opportunity to have somebody come and see me in the home and to see how things were going and to check back with me. I know the value of those services; I know from my own personal experiences. I know from supporting young mothers around me in my neighbourhood, and I understand that we need to make sure that they are available to all.

I just want to go through what we have at the moment and assure the folks that are watching that we are always looking at systems, and we’re always building, because we can always do better and can always get more out there.

The bill may, as well, speaking to a gap that has been identified…. Consultation with health care providers and a thorough review of current programs is what I’m going to go through. These steps have been taken, but there is always more that can be done.

For example, Perinatal Services B.C. provides leadership and coordination for perinatal health care across the province, offering evidence-based information, education and resources related to perinatal health. This includes comprehensive postpartum support, including guidance on newborn care, mental health, breastfeeding and more.

The B.C. Women’s Hospital already established the perinatal mental health and substance use engagement network, aimed at enhancing mental health and substance use services for perinatal individuals. The B.C. Women’s Hospital is a provincial and teaching hospital that specializes in women’s health, including maternity care.

Midwifery services. There are midwives in B.C., and they provide primary health care to pregnant individuals and newborns, including mental health support. The B.C. midwifery program ensures these services are covered for eligible residents and is becoming more and more evident throughout rural B.C. as well, which is an important step for us to take, because the midwives are relatively recently recognized and their skill and their expertise is very, very valuable.

HealthLinkBC, 811, is a confidential health care service provider that provides access to nurses, pharmacists and dietitians, as well as online resources about perinatal and postpartum mental health.

Carrier Sekani Family Services is an Indigenous-led organization that offers prenatal and postnatal support to Indigenous communities in north central B.C.

As I said prior, these are some of the things that are out there, and there is more work to be done, absolutely.

Additional services already in B.C. serve to meet the needs of other maternal populations, such as women who become surrogates or those who place their infants or children up for adoption. The Pacific Post-Partum Support Society offers resources for postpartum depression and anxiety, recognizing the emotional toll of adoption and surrogacy. The Ministry of Children and Family Development’s adoption services provides counselling and guidance for those that are considering adoption.

Public health units across B.C. always serve as a critical access point for pre- and postnatal support. These units are available in rural and urban areas alike, ensuring that individuals at any stage of their pregnancy or postpartum journey can receive assistance. Part of the challenge is making sure that people know what’s out there, and that is a very important piece of having a navigator to community health systems throughout the province.

There’s also a variety of programs that support partners and families. Fathers, too, can experience mental health challenges. As many of us in the chamber know, the emotional, psychological and physical stress of becoming a new parent is not limited only to the mothers. Partners, too, can manifest anxiety, depression and identity shifts.

A couple of examples that are available for support in this area are the Canadian Men’s Health Foundation, which connects men with local mental health resources; and the DUDES Club, which provides a space for Indigenous men to focus on their well-being.

[10:50 a.m.]

This bill has not really addressed the full spectrum of maternal and paternal clientele. However, it does speak to a gap that we are working on and will always be working on. The underlying idea behind this bill is a positive one. It acknowledges the need for strong perinatal and postnatal mental health supports. It does offer some areas that are needing to be filled.

There are some solutions that are already out there, but there are more coming. Instead of focusing on creating new programs from scratch, our government continues the evolving work towards ensuring these health services are accessible, available and effective for all those that would benefit from appropriate care.

Á’a:líya Warbus: It is my honour and privilege to rise in the House today and speak in support of this important bill, not just as an MLA but as a mother and a parent like so many others in the chamber today.

I’m a mother of three beautiful children, and the journey of pregnancy, birth and raising a child has been like nothing else. The toll that it took on my body and the changes I experienced and the difference in hormone levels was something that no one could have prepared me for.

There’s so much joy in welcoming a child into the world. I know what it is to nurture a life from within and also the challenges that come with that. When you hold your child for the first time, something inside you fundamentally shifts, but I also know how demanding, exhausting and overwhelming those early days can be. While I had many ups, there were also moments of extreme struggle, moments of self-doubt, exhaustion and uncertainty. I know that for many women, it can be a lot harder on them than it is for others.

A former constituent and friend of mine, who is a wonderful and inspiring woman, faced severe mental health challenges during her first pregnancy and postpartum. With her first, she struggled with postpartum depression and anxiety, which escalated into a psychosis. Because she didn’t feel that she could talk about this openly with her family, or anyone for that matter, she hid and suffered through it alone.

Eventually she did push through, but she was terrified. She was very isolated during this time, and she does not know what would have happened if it wasn’t for her husband and her family, who stepped in when they were able to assess and notice that something was off with their daughter and the husband with his wife. Because of them, she finally got the help that she needed. She received the proper treatment, and she was put on the right medications.

When she became pregnant again, which was just recently, she made the choice to continue her treatment and to stay open about her struggles, if they were to come, with her family and her supports, prioritizing her mental health over anything else. Now with two children to care for soon, she understands that taking care of her mental health isn’t just for her. It’s for those two kids. Getting the right support didn’t just help her recover; it’s given her the stability and the strength to prevent another overwhelming and stressful crisis.

This is the difference that real support makes, but not everyone has that kind of support around them. No woman should have to suffer in silence. The struggle is real; the isolation is real. For too long, we haven’t done enough to address it, to bring awareness and ensure that we are destigmatizing this issue for all women. That is why this bill matters.

[10:55 a.m.]

For too long, perinatal and postnatal mental health has been overlooked and treated as something women should manage on their own. The reality is that no mother should have to navigate this alone. This bill is about ensuring that real support, real care and real change for women and families across British Columbia becomes a reality in our health care system, not just something that we talk about.

When mothers don’t get the care they need, it affects their children, who need them to be healthy and well. It affects their families, who rely on them. Oftentimes women are the crux of families surviving the difficult times — that we’re facing right now. Their ability to recover, thrive and care for themselves needs to be paramount in our thinking.

This bill takes a critical step forward to ensure that perinatal and postnatal mental health is integrated into our health care system, that resources are available when and where they’re needed and that no woman falls through the cracks ever again.

This is not a moment for politics as usual. This is the right thing to do. It’s one of the moments where we can set all politics aside and come together to support something meaningful for our most precious asset, which is our children. That is why I proudly support this bill, and I urge all of you to do the same.

Kw’as ho:y.

Jeremy Valeriote: Like the member for Langley-Willowbrook, I am also the parent of two daughters, and I am pleased to speak to this bill, M204. The B.C. Green caucus appreciates the much-needed focus on perinatal and postnatal mental health.

Mental health care is an issue we can all get behind, and it’s more important than ever to continue to invest in the mental well-being of British Columbians. It’s also an often-overlooked area, as has been pointed out.

We know that a parent’s mental health can be hugely impacted by pregnancy and the challenges of a newborn. Parents deserve full access to the mental health care that they need during these vulnerable times, and this bill is a step in that direction. We appreciate the member for shining a light on this issue.

There is a lot we can support within this bill. The consideration of social determinants of mental health and barriers in accessing care while developing the strategy is encouraging. The diverse consultation process — particularly concerning those with lived experience, Indigenous governing bodies and advocacy organizations — is also promising and ensures that the government is fulfilling its DRIPA commitments.

This bill aligns with commitments that the B.C. Green caucus has been pursuing for years. Mental health issues that predominantly affect women need more attention and support. We are glad to see that the member for Langley-Willowbrook shares our concerns, and we’re more motivated than ever to continue advocating for parents’ mental health care.

During the committee stage, we’ll continue to champion the importance of choice and consultation in the development of this legislation. For all people able to experience pregnancy, choice is paramount. Decisions on whether to become pregnant, whether to continue with a pregnancy and whether and how to access support services if a pregnancy is terminated or ends must be the decision of the pregnant person.

This House must be aware of the limitations of our jurisdiction and must not overstep these bounds. Provision of grief counselling for people who have experienced a termination or stillbirth is welcome if that’s the decision of the person most directly impacted. Increases in the availability of these services are welcome; a requirement to access them is most certainly not. I look forward to hearing more from the member responsible about their intentions with this provision.

We also hope that the implementation of this strategy will come with an update to the women’s health and well-being report to ensure up-to-date information on women’s mental health. This report on women’s health and well-being has not been revised since 2011, and the B.C. Green caucus will continue advocating for an update to this report to create the most comprehensive and relevant mental health strategy.

Overall, we’re encouraged by the direction of this bill and look forward to supporting its development, ensuring that all British Columbians can access the vital mental health care services they deserve. Compiling existing services into an overall strategy is important to pinpoint effectiveness and fill gaps.

We hope that this bill will serve as an example of much-needed, cross-party unity, showing that we are not as divided as we might think when it comes to the mental well-being of the people of this province.

[11:00 a.m.]

Amna Shah: I’m pleased to rise today to speak to this bill.

I want to begin by highlighting the importance and the feeling that we share with members across the way — the importance of investing in perinatal and postnatal services so that we can ensure better health outcomes for those who are pregnant, their infants and their families.

I think, as a member prior noted, a very well-noted point is that the focus should also be on families not just those who are pregnant, because the struggles are, in some way, shape or form, shared.

It is clear to us that trauma-informed and evidence-based care is essential in supporting healthy pregnancies while addressing the barriers that prevent many individuals from seeking the medical and supportive services they need. In British Columbia, we have a range of specialized services that are aimed at supporting the perinatal and postpartum population, and we can do much more. There is always more to do.

The province has recognized that maternity and reproductive care is a ministry priority. That is reflected in the ministerial mandate to improve the delivery of maternity and reproductive care through targeted initiatives. We also acknowledge that more needs to be done so people can receive timely and effective care, especially closer to home while they’re surrounded by their loved ones. Often they do rely on their loved ones to receive some of that support as well.

The Ministry of Health has taken significant steps to address those needs. We have asked Perinatal Services B.C. to collaborate with partners across the province to develop a refreshed maternity strategy. This strategy is designed to provide a clear roadmap of actions that will be achievable, with a strong focus on perinatal and postnatal mental health. We’re working to ensure that this roadmap is action-oriented and has a lasting impact on the care and the services that are provided.

There have already been several actions taken to increase the availability of primary care maternity services. One such initiative is the extension of the longitudinal family physician incentives to family physician maternity providers. Additionally, we have developed a primary care network, team-based care and resources like nurse and practice programs, which are now available for maternity clinics across the province.

The implementation of primary care network core attributes and measurements is underway right now to assess the availability of comprehensive services, including maternity care. There are several maternity programs that have been launched through the Family Practice Services Committee, including the maternity network and maternity care grant programs.

A significant milestone was established, which was the perinatal substance use working group, back in July 2024. This working group is comprised of representatives not just from health authorities but also health sector partners and ministry delegates. Together they’re focused on improving services for pregnant individuals and new parents who are trying to navigate mental health and substance use concerns.

In addition to substance use treatment and recovery beds funded through health authorities and the Canadian Mental Health Association, we have also created a suite of resources that are designed to support parents and caregivers in promoting healthy infant and child development. There are resources like the Baby’s Best Chance and Toddler’s First Steps, which are available through HealthLinkBC. These resources provide valuable evidence-based information in multiple languages for ease of accessibility.

These resources are designed in partnership with Perinatal Services B.C. This helps ensure that all families have access to the most current guidance and support, because we know that strategies have to fit with changing times, and we need to refresh as regularly as we can.

[11:05 a.m.]

On the clinical front, Perinatal Services B.C. has taken several actions to improve care for pregnant individuals and newborns. This includes providing standardized education and guidance to health care providers, developing guidelines for culturally safe care and coordinating neonatal intensive care unit beds to ensure that the most critical cases are handled with the utmost care and attention.

In terms of mental health support, individuals that are experiencing peri- and postnatal mood and anxiety issues have multiple avenues for help. Services are available through primary care providers, through health authority–led mental health services and specialized programs like those at B.C. Women’s Hospital, which offer comprehensive care for those experiencing substance use and mental health challenges during pregnancy or postpartum.

There are also numerous community groups and non-profit organizations, like the Pacific Post Partum Society, that provide peer support programs to those navigating postpartum depression or anxiety. I think we all know the importance of seeking help and sharing stories with those who have experienced much the same, because at times, as specialized of a health care provider as you may be, that may not be enough for the human touch that really is required to make positive differences in people’s lives.

HealthLinkBC and HelpStartsHere — they’re also excellent resources. The B.C. Women’s Health Foundation has also launched a digital resource called postpartumcare.ca to provide accessible support for individuals who are experiencing postpartum mental health challenges.

We recognize that there is so much more work to do. While there is so much work that is left to be done, the steps that have already been taken to improve perinatal mental health and substance use services in British Columbia are a promising start. We’re committed to continuing to build a system that not only addresses the needs of pregnant mothers and their families but also ensures that everyone receives the timely, compassionate care that they deserve.

Together we can create a stronger, healthier future for all of our families. This is why I am so pleased to rise today to indicate to the members across that this is just as important for everybody on this side of the House, which is why I appreciate the member bringing this bill forward.

Claire Rattée: I rise today in strong support of Bill M204, the Perinatal and Postnatal Mental Health Strategy Act. I want to thank my colleague the member for Langley-Willowbrook for bringing forward this incredibly important piece of legislation.

Often we talk about pregnancy and childbirth in terms of joy and excitement, but for so many women, these experiences are also marked by anxiety, grief, trauma and profound mental health struggles — struggles that are too often ignored, dismissed or left unaddressed.

I know this firsthand. I have faced significant reproductive health challenges, struggled with pregnancy for years and experienced the deep mental health impacts that come with it, the uncertainty, the heartbreak and the overwhelming feeling of isolation. I am far from alone in this. I have seen too many women around me — friends, colleagues, family members — suffer in silence after pregnancy loss, postpartum depression or the trauma of a complicated pregnancy.

My sister-in-law and our whole family recently grieved the tragic loss of her son, my nephew, shortly after his birth. It was a devastating experience that I don’t know she’ll ever fully recover from — not to mention the impacts on her young daughters, the strain of having to come from up north in Kitimat to Vancouver for care, pulling her young children out of school and all of the impacts that it’s had on our family. I’ve witnessed the profound sorrow that follows, the waves of grief that don’t just affect the mother but the entire family.

I’ve felt time and again the same frustration. Why is it so hard to access the support that we need? Why do so many families feel like they have nowhere to turn?

The reality is this. Perinatal and postnatal mental health care in British Columbia is inadequate, and families are suffering because of it. Right now women facing postpartum depression, pregnancy loss or traumatic births are left to navigate a broken system on their own. There are not enough specialized mental health supports. Wait times are too long, and too often the stigma surrounding perinatal mental health leaves women feeling ashamed or unheard.

[11:10 a.m.]

Bill M204 takes real, necessary steps to fix this. It will ensure universal access to perinatal and postnatal mental health care; expand community-based services so families can get help closer to home; provide grief counselling for parents experiencing miscarriage, stillbirth or infant loss; increase training for health care providers so that women are not dismissed or ignored; combat stigma; and raise awareness of perinatal mental health disorders. These should not be luxuries; they should be standard care, yet right now too many women are left to suffer in silence.

This bill is about more than policy; it is about people’s lives. It is about ensuring that no mother, father or family has to navigate this pain alone — that when parents lose a child, when a mother is struggling after birth, when a family is drowning in grief, they have somewhere to turn. This is an opportunity to take real action to say unequivocally that perinatal and postnatal mental health matters. I urge every member of this House to support this bill and take a stand for the health, well-being and dignity of every parent and every child in British Columbia.

With respect, it seems as though the members opposite have spoken about this bill and not actually said whether or not they support it, and I really would urge them to support it. I understand that there are supports available right now for people, but for people in my riding, specifically, there are not. I know far too many people that have struggled to access that care. As I said, I myself have struggled to access that care.

Many people in my riding don’t even have a primary care physician, so they don’t have somebody to lean on during their pregnancy. They do not get access to the same supports that people in the Lower Mainland are able to receive. Like I said, the financial impacts, the emotional impacts and the impacts on the entire family, when people in my riding constantly have to travel down to the Lower Mainland to receive any kind of care or help through pregnancy, take a real toll on people.

I’ve watched people lose jobs over it, lose their rental property or the property that they’re renting. I’ve even heard of people that have lost their mortgage over it after long, extended stays.

This is something that desperately needs to be addressed, so I hope you would support it.

Dana Lajeunesse: It’s my pleasure to speak to this bill today. There’s no denying the critical importance of perinatal and postnatal care, particularly focusing on mental health and substance use issues for women in British Columbia.

Obviously, it’s essential to recognize the profound impact these services have on the well-being of mothers and their families. Maternity and reproductive care is a priority for the ministry, as reflected in the ministerial mandate to improve the delivery of these services across the province through targeted initiatives.

Over the past 20 years, the incidence rate of perinatal substance use in B.C. has nearly doubled, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive support systems. Evidence suggests that in 2020, rates of substance use among pregnant individuals in the northern and interior regions were significantly higher when compared with the more urban areas. As mentioned in the ministerial mandate letter, there’s more work to be done in these areas.

Individuals experiencing peri/postnatal mood and anxiety disorders can access professional supports through their primary care providers, urgent primary care centres and health authority–led community mental health intake services. Specialized reproductive mental health services are available through B.C. Women’s Hospital, Fraser health and Vancouver Coastal health authorities, requiring a referral from a health care provider.

These services include assessment, treatment and referrals provided by a multidisciplinary team on an outpatient or virtual basis. B.C. Women’s Hospital offers the families in recovery program, providing specialized support to pregnant individuals and new parents navigating mental health and substance use concerns.

[11:15 a.m.]

Currently there are 415 female-only substance use treatment and recovery beds funded through health authorities and the Canadian Mental Health Association, with 69 beds prioritizing pregnant women and 68 beds serving women with their children. As of August 2024, researchers identified 29 services specifically for pregnant individuals who use substances in B.C., including live-in supportive housing facilities, wraparound community programs and acute care programs.

However, there’s a notable disparity in the availability of specialized acute care beds for perinatal substance use outside of Metro Vancouver, with only one bed available in northern B.C. So again, the Ministry of Health recognizes there’s more that needs to be done to address these issues so people are able to receive the care that they need, where and when they need it.

Health care providers across B.C. have access to perinatal mental health and substance use specialist consultations through the clinician-only RACE line and perinatal addiction service from B.C. Women’s Hospital. The perinatal and newborn health hub provided by Perinatal Services B.C. offers a clinical information resource system to make evidence-based, up-to-date, perinatal and newborn health information easily accessible to all health professionals from anywhere in B.C.

Community groups and not-for-profit organizations, such as the Pacific Post Partum Support Society, provide in-person, telephone or text peer support programs for individuals experiencing postpartum depression or anxiety. Reliable, B.C.-specific information and resources are accessible through government sources like HealthLinkBC and HelpStartsHere. Additionally, the Women’s Health Foundation, in collaboration with other partners, recently launched a new digital resource, postpartumcare.ca, to support the public.

All that said, in conclusion, the merits of perinatal and postnatal care cannot be overstated. By ensuring comprehensive mental health and substance use services for peri- and postnatal women, we’re not only supporting the health and well-being of mothers but also fostering healthier families and communities.

We understand that it is essential that we continue to prioritize and expand these services to address the growing needs and disparities throughout British Columbia so people can gain easy access to the services they need, where and when they need them.

Anna Kindy: I wrote something to talk about today, but I’m actually going to go off script, just listening to what’s happening. I think the realities are different from what we’re hearing on the ground. I think this is such an important issue that we need to be apolitical and actually look at what needs to change.

Talk is cheap, so when I hear about compassionate, timely care that’s evidence-based; when I hear about programs and working groups; when I hear about culturally safe care and when I hear, especially, about receiving the care when they need it and where they need it, I want to talk about the reality on the ground, which is that it’s not happening.

Right now in my community I come across women that are pregnant that have moved to the community in their third trimester, and they cannot find primary care. They cannot get into a clinic to see a nurse practitioner or a GP. That’s the reality.

How can we even assess for mental health issues, which are so important? If we screen for mental health issues early, it changes the outcome, and 40 percent of patients screened for depression end up doing well postpartum. We need to screen early, and we’re not doing that.

[11:20 a.m.]

In terms of access to psychiatry, there are right now over 100 postings for jobs for psychiatry in B.C. In my community, we cannot access out-patient psychiatric care. If you can’t access a nurse practitioner, a GP, ob-gyn and you can’t even access psychiatric care if you do have mental health issues, how can we say you’re receiving the care you need, where and when you need it? It’s not happening on the ground.

If you do end up needing admission into psychiatric care, let’s say if you’ve delivered a baby…. This doesn’t happen often. It’s maybe one to two patients in a thousand births that women end up having a psychotic breakdown, which is actually a medical emergency. It’s very rare, but it’s a medical emergency.

Right now if you try to access a psychiatric bed…. I’m not talking Women’s, because you’re lucky if you end up at Women’s. Most of us don’t live in Vancouver. If you try to access a psychiatric bed from my community, you will be held in emergency until a bed becomes available, and we have no psych beds. Can you imagine being held in emergency where there are stretchers in the hallway? Sometimes you actually have to put them in what I call the padded room, because you can’t sedate them enough until you can access a psychiatric bed.

Unfortunately, in rural communities, it comes as triage. We end up being last. If you’re not from Vancouver or Victoria, good luck. Those are the realities. Please let’s not talk about receiving the care they need, when they need it. It’s not happening, and that’s a reality on the ground.

I think this bill is so important because it focuses light on this very important issue. I think, with this, we need to be truly apolitical and vote for Bill M204, which is the Perinatal and Postnatal Mental Health Strategy Act, because that will save us money. If we triage properly and treat properly, the outcome for mother, child and family is so much better. The cost…. It saves the public health system money.

Let’s talk reality. I support this bill.

Sunita Dhir: I rise today to express my support for the principle of this bill during second reading.

The well-being of new and expectant parents, as well as their families, is a fundamental priority for our government. We recognize that perinatal and postnatal mental health is a critical aspect of maternity care, and I appreciate the intent of this legislation to strengthen supports in this area.

As outlined, this bill proposes the development of a comprehensive strategy for perinatal and postnatal mental health in British Columbia. This strategy must ensure universal access to care, expand community-based services, increase awareness and reduce barriers to care, while also promoting research and addressing the social determinants of health.

These are all objectives that align with the work already underway in our province. The ministry’s 2025-26 mandate letter already directs us to improve the delivery of maternity and reproductive care across the province. In support of this, we have made significant strides in strengthening primary care, which plays a crucial role in perinatal and postnatal mental health.

[11:25 a.m.]

This includes the expansion of the longitudinal family physician, LFP, payment model, ensuring fair compensation for family doctors providing maternity and newborn care in hospitals; on-call payments for facility-based maternity service providers through the medical on-call availability program; the 2022-25 midwifery main agreement, which introduces new contract options for midwives and lays the groundwork for an alternative funding model similar to LFP; team-based care resources through primary care networks and the nurse-in-practice program to increase maternity care capacity; funding various maternity initiatives, including the maternity network, maternity care risk assessment, maternity care for B.C. and the maternity care grant through the Family Practice Services Committee; and supporting the maternity and babies advice line, MaBAL, a 24-7 virtual support line for rural, remote and Indigenous primary care providers, offering maternal and newborn care expertise.

Primary care networks are already advancing maternity and newborn service planning and development, ensuring that more families across B.C. have access to the care they need. Additionally, the ministry has prioritized culturally safe and trauma-informed care, recognizing that these approaches are crucial in addressing perinatal and postnatal mental health challenges.

Further, we are making progress in enhancing specialized perinatal and postnatal mental health services. Individuals experiencing perinatal mood and anxiety disorders can access professional support through primary care providers, urgent and primary care centres and health authority–led community mental health services.

Specialized reproductive mental health services are available through the B.C. Women’s Hospital and select regional health authorities, offering comprehensive assessment and treatment through a multidisciplinary approach.

We have also made targeted investments in substance use services for perinatal individuals. The families in recovery program at B.C. Women’s Hospital provides specialized support for those navigating both mental health and substance use concerns. As of August 2024, there are 29 services specifically designed for pregnant individuals who use substances, including live-in supportive housing, wraparound community programs and acute care beds.

However, we recognize that there’s more to be done to ensure equitable access across all regions of the province.

Public access to mental health resources is another key priority. Community groups and non-profit organizations such as the Pacific Post Partum Support Society offer in-person, telephone and text-based peer support. Digital platforms, including postpartumcare.ca and HealthLinkBC, provide individuals and families with reliable information on perinatal and postnatal mental health care options. Additionally, the perinatal mental health and substance use engagement network has been established to improve services by incorporating the voices of those with lived experiences.

We understand that timely access to mental health care providers, increased availability of training for health care workers and expanded community-based services are essential components of a strong perinatal and postnatal mental health system.

That’s why Perinatal Services B.C. has developed the perinatal and newborn health hub, a clinical resource system offering evidence-based guidelines for each stage of pregnancy and newborn care. This hub ensures that health care professionals have access to the latest best practices, including mental health support during the preconception, pregnancy and postpartum periods.

Additionally, we have partnered with UBC to create training resources such as the Not Just the Blues perinatal depression and anxiety online module, equipping providers with the necessary tools to recognize, screen and treat perinatal mental health disorders effectively.

While we acknowledge that further progress is needed, I want to emphasize that our government is already actively working on these priorities.

[11:30 a.m.]

The principle of the proposed bill aligns with existing efforts to refresh our maternity strategy, which is being led by Perinatal Services B.C. in collaboration with stakeholders across the province. This strategy will include actionable steps to improve perinatal and postnatal mental health services and ensure that all British Columbians receive the care and support they deserve.

We also recognize the importance of ongoing consultation in this process. The voices of perinatal and postnatal health care providers, mental health professionals, Indigenous communities, advocacy organizations and individuals with lived experiences must be at the forefront of shaping our approach. As we continue to refine and strengthen our maternity care services, we remain committed to reducing stigma, increasing awareness and improving access to compassionate, trauma-informed mental health support for new and expectant parents.

In conclusion, I agree with the importance of perinatal and postnatal mental health. Our government is committed to ensuring that the necessary supports are in place and that the work already underway continues to build a stronger, more inclusive system for all families in British Columbia.

Trevor Halford: I stand in full support of the bill put forward by my colleague the member for Langley-Willowbrook.

I don’t think there’s a member in this House who hasn’t been touched by the subject that we’re talking about today, but I really do think that in this time we have here today, we are missing one big opportunity. We really are. It’s not a political statement I’m making. I say it with respect.

This is an absolutely critical issue, and we all know that. The fact is that some of the resources that have been talked about today and listed off in a very mechanical way are completely unavailable. They are, and that’s a fact.

It’s very difficult and challenging when you’re talking about a subject like this and you’re listing off the things that have been announced and things like that, but we know what the reality is. We’ve heard it. We hear it from front-line workers. More importantly, we hear it from the people that it has impacted, and sometimes we don’t hear it from them because it’s too late.

I’ve got three kids. I’ve got two boys, 16 and 15, and a daughter that is ten. That’s one of the reasons I’m here, especially for that daughter that’s ten, because she’s got a massive challenge in front of her, I think one that the 93 of us are focused on making easier.

What I’m hearing today is: “Don’t worry about it; it’s under control.” It’s not. I’ll tell you why it’s not under control, and I’ll tell you why I support the work that my colleague from Langley-Willowbrook has done on this piece of legislation.

I live close to Peace Arch Hospital. Peace Arch Hospital experiences probably some of the most diversions that we see in Fraser Health. In fact, it was shut down. I stood out there and campaigned in protest to keep it open.

Now, you can imagine some of the difficulties that parents face, specifically that mothers face, when they are working with their doctor, their family doctor, their ob-gyn, and everything like that. They’re getting ready, and all of a sudden there’s not the support they have at that hospital. They’re being diverted, whether it’s to Langley, to Surrey Memorial or to Royal Columbian. This happens every single day at Peace Arch Hospital. It does.

[11:35 a.m.]

Peace Arch Hospital is another example. We fundraised, through the Peace Arch Hospital Foundation, for a mental health facility. It’s beautiful, but that facility sat empty for a year because they couldn’t staff it. The example is that if somebody was going in there to seek mental health support, those doors were locked. So they would have to sit in an emergency room. I don’t think that’s adequate.

The previous speaker — I think this was in good faith and sincere — talked about timely access. This is a subject that can’t wait. Timely access isn’t days; it’s not weeks; it can’t be months. It’s minutes. It’s in real time. That access isn’t there. It’s not. Whether it’s in Terrace; whether it’s in Kitimat, Prince George, Kelowna or on the Island, like my previous colleague talked about; or whether it’s in White Rock, Surrey or Langley, it’s not there.

For us, it’s good that we’re having this conversation. As a father, it’s good that I’m up here having this conversation. But I can tell you the stories we encounter of the trauma that’s been inflicted at our hospitals, not through the work of the front-line workers…. They’re experiencing that trauma as well. When they’re trying to provide the best possible care for an expectant mother and they don’t have the resources to give that, it takes a toll on them. That’s happening every minute of every day, at almost every hospital across this province. That’s a fact.

We can get up and we can have communications give us a list of stuff that we need to come in here and read off, or we can actually have a conversation about what’s going on and how we’re going to fix it. That’s the expectation my constituents have of me. That’s the bar that the member for Langley-Willowbrook has set today. I think we owe it to that — to have that conversation in a meaningful way.

I can tell you that when you have 42 percent of health care providers saying that there’s no timely access to these supports, it’s a problem. I’ve known moms that have struggled; I’ve known dads that have struggled. Not one of them has said that the system worked for them. Fortunately, a lot of them have said their support system worked for them. That’s very, very important. A lot of these stories we don’t know. Some people in this House have experienced these stories. We don’t know.

When we have a piece of legislation like this put forward, we owe it to ourselves to give it the respect it deserves. I know that we’ve revamped things. I’m not necessarily sure that’s happening today. I think it’s a huge missed opportunity. I really do. I’m not trying to be disrespectful when I say that.

At the end of the day, as a parent, as somebody that has experienced this issue firsthand, I can tell you that what’s contained in this legislation is important stuff. It’s well-thought-out. If there are improvements that can be made, let’s make them together. We can do that. I think that’s what the expectation is. It’s not a political statement.

When the Premier got up after October 19 and said he was going to do things differently — that he was going to work across the aisle, and he was going to find common ground — this is it. This piece of legislation is it. Let’s do that.

I can tell you the hotlines and the other things are important, but they’re not working. I don’t want to come here and pretend that they are. We need to make sure that we’re providing support, not just for the parents but for the front-line workers as well — and do it with consultation. That’s all contained in here.

[11:40 a.m.]

Again, I hope that as we continue this, we have thoughtful support, suggestions on how we improve it and that we don’t go through this mechanical process of reading off the list. I know how important this is to everybody in this House. I really do, and I stress that.

I know that everybody has a story. They don’t need…. It’s up to them to share or not share. It’s a very personal thing to do. But we owe it to everybody that sent us here to give this stuff the importance that it needs.

Thank you for this opportunity, Madam Speaker.

Darlene Rotchford: I’d like to begin by acknowledging I am speaking today on the traditional territories of the Esquimalt and Songhees peoples, and I want to express my gratitude to them for allowing me to live, work and raise my family there.

I would also like to thank the member for bringing Bill M204, Perinatal and Postnatal Mental Health Strategy Act, and I would hope that we all, at least in principle, support this.

With over 42,000 births occurring in our province each year, ensuring access to mental health support during and after pregnancy is a vital component of maternity care. The Minister of Health’s mandate letter explicitly states that maternity and reproductive care is a ministry priority. With a commitment to improving and delivering these services across our province through targeted initiatives, our government is dedicated to advancing this work.

I want to take a moment to share my personal experience, because I’ve heard lots of people say: “You know, I’ve heard lots of personal experience.” I want to talk about why prenatal mental health support is important to me.

In 2023, I began my journey to motherhood. From the outset, I was classified as a geriatric pregnancy, which is hilarious — for anyone who knows, it’s someone over 34 — which meant I initially received the care I needed at a clinic in Victoria.

However, as my pregnancy progressed, I found myself without prenatal care. My husband and I called every available provider, placed our names on multiple wait-lists and pled for a spot. The process was exhausting, mentally and emotionally.

Eventually, though, we learned about what was called the “unattached clinic” at Victoria General Hospital. now known as the prenatal clinic. This clinic — created through collaboration with government, Island Health and advocates for prenatal care — was a lifeline. Without their dedicated team, I would have not received the care I needed at all. In fact, in December 2023, I was one of 32 people who had no prenatal care, and they filled a vital hole. This government did that. They checked in regularly, provided vital information and offered compassion and support to many others in similar situations.

Throughout my pregnancy, though, I experienced emotional highs and lows. I questioned my ability to be a mother and struggled with my identity, as someone, to be frank, who spent many years of her life trying not to become a mother. For years, I had been Darlene the health care worker; the person who worked in mental health and substance use, who helped people; the municipal councillor; the Victoria Labour Council president; the BCGEU activist; and my list can go on.

Suddenly, I was facing a reality of becoming just Darlene the mom, and that fear brought on guilt, which only worsened my anxiety throughout my pregnancy. I knew many people longed for motherhood, and that made me feel even more ashamed for struggling with my emotions. Whether it was pride from working in mental health or simple stubbornness, I resisted seeking counselling.

We’ve heard people in this House today talk about how there’s still stigma related to this, but there is stigma — let’s be real — in mental health in general still, and we’re still breaking down barriers. I can honestly say that without the support I did have, I don’t know if I would have made it through those dark moments leading up to my daughter’s birth.

Fast-forward to December 13. I was admitted to Victoria General to bring my daughter Evie into this world. We are told, growing up, that childbirth is supposed to be this beautiful and natural experience. Well, quite frankly, that’s not the case for everybody.

December 14 is a day of complicated emotions for me. After a long and difficult labour, I required an emergency C-section, and this is where my trauma began. I had an adverse reaction to the epidural, and my last memory before losing consciousness was feeling as though I was seizing on an operating table and feeling cold.

[11:45 a.m.]

The anaesthesiologist reassured me, telling me to lean into it and that everything was going to be okay, and that’s actually the last memory I have of my daughter’s birth. I have no memory of her being born. Through photos that tell me it happened, though…. To this day, I still struggle to look at those pictures without sadness, as they bring me back to that moment.

When I regained consciousness, I was moved to the postpartum ward. My baby was taken to NICU due to concerns about her blood sugars. That first night separated from her, I can still remember sitting in that bed in the hospital with those overwhelming feelings, hearing moms with their babies, and I had no idea what was going on.

I appreciate the men speaking up here today, because my husband also felt all these same feelings. My husband and I were informed that our daughter was having seizures, and the medical team, quite frankly, didn’t know why. Over the weekend, we learned that she had HIE. It’s a very long term, so I’m not going to explain it, but it essentially means she lost oxygen at birth.

The uncertainty of what this means for her future shattered me and my husband. On Tuesday night, without my little girl, who had remained in NICU, I was sent home. That night home alone, I woke up cold, crying and on the verge of a panic attack. I knew I needed help. To some of our friends in this House’s point, it couldn’t wait.

Through Rosehip Midwifery, I was connected with a postpartum midwife named Rebecca. She truly was an angel. When she came to my home to check on me, I broke down, admitting for the first time that I was struggling. She informed me about a counsellor affiliated with her services. Because it was covered under MSP, I was able to access the support I desperately needed now.

That counsellor not only helped me process my birth trauma but also guided me through my transition into motherhood and all the feelings that came with it. In the early days, my husband and I had to recount our trauma experience repetitively during my daughter’s medical birth. As the member said, it is hard to go back into the health care system as a patient when you have had those struggles. But I knew I had my counsellor to support me every time I was still struggling. I am deeply grateful for the support I received.

Even now, following up with appointments sometimes still brings back memories. As you can tell today, this never really goes away. You just learn how to cope. You rely on the services that are there — the people in your little pod, I call them. Again, as someone who came from the field of mental health and addiction, I am so grateful to have the people I had at that time.

I rarely share my story, because as you can see, it’s difficult. But I share it today because I know that other parents are still struggling. They need to hear that they’re not alone, that supports are available. So even though I appreciate some of the opposition being frustrated with us naming those supports, I hope that if someone’s listening today, they will hear they’re there. I know it’s not perfect, and you often hear our minister say: “We’re doing good work, but I know we still have work to do.”

Every day my little Evie grows into an amazing little girl. I hope one day, if she’s watching this one or any of my other colleagues’ kids are watching this…. I want them to know that people in this chamber work to ensure that those supports exist, not just for my little girl, but for every child and parent who may need them. I want her to know that despite everything, I would not change a thing, because it brought her to me.

As we can all see, I’m expecting baby 2. Both sides of this House have been very sweet, checking in — how’s it going? — because at the end of the day, we’re all here to support British Columbians. I would be lying if I said I wasn’t anxious about returning to the same hospital where I experienced this story, but I take comfort in knowing that if I need support, they will be there.

Like I said, the Minister of Health has said we are making progress. We know there’s more to do, not just because it’s a government mandate but because it’s the right thing to do for people in British Columbia. I say this not only as someone who has dedicated my career to mental health and substance use, with spending 18 years in it, and not only as the MLA for Esquimalt-Colwood but as a mother.

Today I saw a really interesting quote on Facebook. That’s what we do in the morning when we are on our way here. It says: “Look for something positive in each day, even if some days, you have to look a little harder.”

[11:50 a.m.]

For the parents who are out there struggling, it’s going to be okay. Today might be a hard day. If you got up and put your feet on the ground, that’s great. If you showered, bonus, for any new parents who have all been down that road. I want you to know your feelings are real, they are valid, and you are not alone.

Please remember, if you need help, to reach out — that it’s okay to reach out, that the stigma needs to end in mental health for our people and our friends that need prenatal and postpartum care. Support is available. I do recognize we have more work to do, and each and every one of you deserves it.

Jody Toor: I just want to thank everyone that spoke on my debate today for Bill M204 and shared their personal stories. I can see how difficult it can be to express and share their true stories and stories of other family members. I want to thank each and every single member.

[The Speaker in the chair.]

We spent this time talking about a critical issue, one that affects mothers, families and communities across British Columbia. The reality is in the statistics: one in five women experience prenatal and postnatal mental health struggles. Most don’t get the help they need when they need it, like one of my colleagues mentioned, because right now one million British Columbians don’t have access to a family physician.

When untreated, these challenges don’t just impact parents. They impact children, partners and the entire family. The statistics are reflective of real people, about mothers and parents struggling in silence, because they don’t know where to turn, when to turn or because the help they need isn’t there when they need it the most.

Too often prenatal and postnatal mental health goes unrecognized or is treated as secondary, something that can wait, something that isn’t as urgent as physical health. But prenatal and postnatal mental health is health. We wouldn’t ignore a physical health crisis in a new parent, so why do we let mental health go untreated?

This bill isn’t about recognizing the issues; it’s about taking real measurable steps to fix them. I understand there is a lot of mental health support that’s already there, and it’s been mentioned, but we need to take steps that fix the stigma, the fear of getting the help — to remove barriers that stop parents from getting the help they need. It makes mental health care part of prenatal where it belongs. It ensures long-term accountability so that this issue isn’t ignored.

Right now too many parents fall through the cracks because of stigma, lack of awareness and inaccurate resources, depending on where you live. This bill ensures that mental health support is integrated, accessible and proactive, not just an afterthought.

When we support prenatal and postnatal mental health, we’re not just supporting mothers; we’re supporting and strengthening families. We’re giving parents the tools they need to navigate the challenges of early parenthood. We’re helping children grow up in a stable, supportive environment where their caregivers are mentally well. We are investing in the future well-being of our communities, because when mothers thrive, our society thrives.

We can make sure no mother, no father and no family in British Columbia has to suffer in silence again.

I introduced this bill because I’m a mother of two daughters. I understand how important this matter is. I’ve gone through it myself. I introduced it because no mother should ever have to feel alone in her struggles. No partner should feel like they have nowhere to turn. No family should suffer because mental health care wasn’t available when they needed it.

We have a chance to make a real difference today. That’s the urge that I have in wanting the support of all of you for this bill, not just because it’s something that is personal to me — I feel no mother and no father today or any day should be suffering — but for families and the children of tomorrow.

The Speaker: Members, the question is second reading of Bill M204, intituled Perinatal and Postnatal Mental Health Strategy Act.

Division has been called.

Members, pursuant to Standing Order 25, the division is deferred until 6 p.m. today.

Hon. Sheila Malcolmson moved adjournment of the House.

Motion approved.

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

The House adjourned at 11:55 a.m.

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