The House met at 10:05 a.m.

[The Speaker in the chair.]

Routine Business

Prayers and reflections: Hon. Christine Boyle.

Statements

Green Party Caucus Staff
Emily Bishop

Jeremy Valeriote: It is with affection and sadness that I rise today to wish farewell to our longtime B.C. Green caucus team member, Emily Bishop. Emily joined us four years ago as a policy analyst, taking on the immense scope of the “dirt ministries.”

Every week, as the team pitched ideas and priorities, Emily has been a steadfast defender of the trees, the water and the earth. Emily was also appointed our well-being officer and always brings joy and laughter, as well as the most pressing questions, to every room she’s in.

[10:10 a.m.]

Forests and climate advocacy are her true passions, and they are where her journey is taking her next. We’re thankful that someone as talented as Emily is fighting the good fight for a livable future for all of us.

Thank you, Emily, for leading these policy files with grace and passion, and we will miss you.

to every room she’s in. Forests and climate advocacy are her true passions, and they are where her journey is taking her next. We’re thankful that someone as talented as Emily is fighting the good fight for a liveable future for all of us.

Thank you, Emily, for leading these policy files with grace and passion, and we will miss you.

Tributes

Lavina “Lee” Charles

Hon. Ravi Parmar: I’ve got some sad news to report to the House. Just this past weekend a true community leader in my constituency and that of the constituency of my colleague from Juan de Fuca–Malahat, Dr. Lavina Charles, a respected Elder from the SC’IȺNEW̱ Beecher Bay First Nations, passed away. Dr. Charles, or as we often referred to her in my community as Grandma Lee, was a true pillar of our community.

I think the biggest gift that she taught us in my time as a former chair of the Sooke school district was the opportunity that she took out of her busy schedule to be in our schools to teach the SENĆOŦEN language to our children. It’s a big loss for the SC’IȺNEW̱ First Nations. One of her last acts before she passed away was gifting a name of SĆIȺNEW̱ SṮEȽIṮḴEȽ, “salmon children,” the name that is now the name of our new elementary school in south Langford.

I want to take this opportunity on behalf of the whole House to offer my deepest condolences to Chief Russ Chipps and the SC’IȺNEW̱ First Nations on this major loss for this community, a major loss for our region and our province as well.

Introductions by Members

Jennifer Blatherwick: I am very pleased to welcome to this House Tova Belsher, who is serving as my intern this week.

I want to not just highlight her enthusiasm for politics and her kindness and compassion but to also thank all of the members of this House who have made her welcome, as have all of the staff, who have taken time to explore with her the options in democracy. There are so many things that are involved in politics that are not us. It’s been really affirming this week to see her enthusiasm for those procedures and a young person who is truly dedicated to democracy.

Mandeep Dhaliwal: Right now our Canadian women’s team is playing for gold against the United States. B.C. is represented by one player, Jennifer Gardiner. I am proud to say that she is from the greatest city of Surrey.

Please join me in wishing Team Canada good luck.

Hon. Jessie Sunner: Today in the gallery we have a group of 35 students from Simon Fraser University that are visiting the Legislature. I just want to welcome them into the House.

I hope you have a great visit throughout the Legislature today.

Rosalyn Bird: It’s my honour today to introduce some new members to our team, including some new staff that we’ve just finalized. We have our interns with us today, and I’d like to introduce them.

We have Annika Clark. She has a bachelor of arts in political science from the French cohort program, public and international affairs, from Simon Fraser University. She also completed a minor and certificate in Indigenous studies, and she was on the executive of the French student union and participated in the faculty of arts and social sciences peer mentorship program.

We have Emmanuel Adegboyega. Emmanuel recently graduated with a bachelor of arts in political science with a distinction and minor in social data analytics from Simon Fraser University. At SFU, he served as the president. He was also a student athlete on SFU’s NCAA football team. He is currently preparing for his LSATs and finalizing his applications to law school.

We also have Zofka Sevec. Zofka recently graduated from the University of Victoria with a bachelor of arts in sociology, receiving honours, and a minor in political science. In the fall, she is headed to do a master’s of sociology at McGill University.

[10:15 a.m.]

We also have Massimo Calabrese. Massimo has a bachelor of arts and honours in history from the University of Victoria. He’s a fiddler player from Williams Lake, and he plans to attend the University of Victoria’s joint JD/JID program, Canadian common law and Indigenous legal traditions in September of 2026.

We also have Priya Minhas. Priya has a bachelor of science in psychology from the University of Northern British Columbia. She served as a teaching assistant in the department of psychology and as a community assistant

Canadian common law and Indigenous legal traditions in September of 2026.

We also have Priya Minhas. Priya has a bachelor of science in psychology from the University of Northern British Columbia. She served as a teaching assistant in the department of psychology and as a community assistant in the housing and residence life. Priya was also the president of UNBC’s World University Service of Canada local committee.

We recognize and we value the experience internships bring, and we are very excited to support you and encourage you through your time with our caucus.

We would also like to introduce two new staff members. Ethan Spencer joins us for our communications department. He has a master of arts in international affairs from Carleton University. And Erika Acuzar. Erika Acuzar also joins our communications department, and Erika graduated from the University of British Columbia. Welcome.

Would everybody please join me in welcoming our new staff.

Introduction and
First Reading of Bills

Bill 6 — Motor Vehicle
Amendment Act, 2026

Hon. Niki Sharma presented a message from Her Honour the Lieutenant Governor: a bill intituled Motor Vehicle Amendment Act, 2026.

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

I am pleased to introduce the Motor Vehicle Amendment Act. This bill makes amendments to the Motor Vehicle Act to support the first phase of the modernization of driver licensing, which is a ten-year program consisting of a number of individual projects to protect online driving licensing services, modernize ICBC’s business process and upgrade technology, including the interface with government services.

These amendments provide for online applications for simple renewals of drivers’ licences and for replacing lost, destroyed or damaged drivers’ licenses. Online renewals and replacements in this first phase of modernization will include combination driver’s licenses with the B.C. Services Card as well as standalone photo B.C. Services Card and B.C. identification card.

This bill also makes minor amendments related to driver licensing and clarifies the authority to provide exemptions for fees under the act and regulations.

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

Motion approved.

Hon. Niki Sharma: I move that the bill be placed on the orders of the day for second reading at the next sitting in the House after today.

Motion approved.

Gender Ideology and Child Protection Act

Tara Armstrong presented a bill intituled Gender Ideology and Child Protection Act.

Tara Armstrong: I move that a bill intituled Gender Ideology and Child Protection Act, of which notice has been given in my name on the order paper, be introduced and read a first time now.

The purpose of this bill is to create protections for children from gender ideology in our courts, our schools and our health care.

Firstly, this bill will amend the Family Law Act and the Child, Family and Community Service Act to classify the promotion of gender ideology as a form of emotional harm. This bill will address that for too long, courts have failed to protect children from parents who prioritize ideology above the child’s well-being. In family law disputes, courts will now have to classify that gender transitions are in children’s best interests. This bill will modernize our family law to keep up with the emerging form of abuse that is child gender ideology.

Second, this bill will remove gender ideology from our education system and ban social transitions in schools. When our kids are confused and uncomfortable in their own bodies, this bill will prohibit schools from dangerously affirming identity crises rather than treating them with care and compassion. It will prohibit schools from hiding identity changes from parents, placing students in opposite-sex bathrooms, and it will remove gender ideology materials out of our libraries and classrooms.

Third, the bill will prohibit medical gender transitions of minors altogether. It will stop doctors from prescribing cross-sex hormones and performing irreversible gender surgeries.

[10:20 a.m.]

Together we can protect British Columbia’s precious children.

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

Division has been called.

Together, we can protect British Columbia’s precious children.

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

Division has been called.

[10:25 a.m.-10:30 a.m.]

The Speaker: Members, the question is first reading of the bill introduced by the member for Kelowna–Lake Country–Coldstream.

Motion negatived on the following division: YEAS — 38, NAYS — 49. [See Votes and Proceedings.]

Bill M231 — Veterans and
First Responders Month Act

Rosalyn Bird: I move that a bill intituled Veterans and First Responders Month Act, of which notice has been given in my name on the order paper, be introduced and read a first time now.

I rise to introduce the Veterans and First Responders Month Act. This bill designates the month of November as Veterans and First Responders Month throughout British Columbia.

[10:35 a.m.]

November already holds deep meaning for Canadians. Each year, on November 8 and November 11, we pause to remember the courage and sacrifice of those who served in uniform, men and women who have defended our freedoms at home and abroad and who have stood in harm’s way on behalf of our country.

But remembrance does not end with a single day. Across

each year on November 8 and November 11, we pause to remember the courage and sacrifice of those who served in uniform, men and women who have defended our freedoms at home and abroad and who have stood in harm’s way on behalf of our country.

But remembrance does not end with a single day. Across British Columbia, veterans continue to contribute to our communities, long after their service concludes, as leaders, mentors, business owners, volunteers and neighbours. Their discipline, integrity and commitment to service remain a lasting gift to our province.

Likewise, first responders, police officers, firefighters, paramedics, search and rescue personnel, emergency dispatchers and others serve our communities each and every day. They respond when others cannot. They enter dangerous situations when others must leave. We have very recently witnessed this in Tumbler Ridge. They provide stability in moments of crisis and reassurance in moments of fear.

In the smaller communities, particularly those that are rural or remote, these individuals are not distant figures. They are our neighbours. We see their service firsthand. We see them in grocery stores, arenas and churches. We understand the personal cost that can come with this duty.

Designating November as veterans and first responders month provides an opportunity for the Legislature and for communities across British Columbia to formally recognize their service, to honour their sacrifices and educate future generations about the freedoms, responsibilities, security and safety that we all too often take for granted.

This bill does not create a program, it does not impose a cost, it simply affirms on behalf of this House that the service of veterans and first responders matters and that it will be remembered.

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

Motion approved.

Rosalyn Bird: I move that the bill be placed on the orders of the day for second reading at the next sitting of the House after today.

Motion approved.

Members’ Statements

Kelowna Chamber of Commerce

Gavin Dew: Mr. Speaker, I would like to take a moment to recognize an important milestone for Kelowna. This year marks the beginning of the 120th year of service of the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce, a remarkable achievement that reflects more than a century of leadership, advocacy and community building in our region.

For more than 100 years, the Kelowna chamber has been a strong and trusted voice for local business, fostering economic growth, innovation and collaboration throughout the Central Okanagan. That kind of continuity does not happen by accident. It is earned, generation after generation, through credibility, hard work and a deep understanding of what local businesses actually need to succeed.

As we recognize this anniversary, I would also like to take this belated opportunity to acknowledge Chamber of Commerce Week, a time to recognize not only the Kelowna Chamber but the broader chamber movement across British Columbia and across Canada.

Chambers of commerce are often the quiet infrastructure of our economy. They bring together entrepreneurs, family businesses, manufacturers, retailers, farmers and innovators. They create the space where ideas collide, partnerships form and local priorities are translated into practical policy conversations.

At the heart of every chamber are people who take risks, people who start something, grow something and employ their neighbours. Small and medium-sized businesses remain the backbone of our communities, and chamber members are often the very first to step forward when their community needs leadership, sponsorship or support.

Today I want to congratulate the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce on 120 years of service and extend my thanks to chambers of commerce and boards of trade across the province for the essential role they play in strengthening local economies, supporting job creation and building resilient, vibrant communities. Their work matters, their voices matter, and the opportunities and jobs they help create for people and families across British Columbia matter.

[10:40 a.m.]

Janet Routledge: Today I rise to recognize our doctors of optometry and the vital role they play in the health of patients across our province. From large urban centres to

Optometrists

Janet Routledge: Today I rise to recognize our doctors of optometry and the vital role they play in the health of patients across our province. From large urban centres to rural and remote communities, optometrists are often the first and sometimes only point of contact for eye care and vision health. They provide in-person care in 175 communities across B.C. They provide comprehensive exams, diagnose disease, manage chronic conditions and help thousands of us preserve our sight and maintain our quality of life.

Optometrists can also detect other health risks, like diabetes and even brain tumours. Signs of disease often appear in the eyes first, and regular eye exams can help detect conditions that can become life-threatening.

Every year over 1.2 million patients are seen by optometrists. They can help reduce pressure on family doctors, emergency departments and specialists by treating conditions early and close to home. For seniors, for children and for patients managing chronic illnesses, timely access to eye care is vital.

Our optometrists are highly trained, highly trusted professionals. They prevent eye diseases such as macular degeneration, cataracts and glaucoma. They help promote long-term eye health and prevent vision loss. By managing eye conditions, providing pre- and post-operation care and catching diseases early on, optometrists allow medical specialists and hospitals to focus on the most urgent and complex cases.

Optometrists also assess and correct vision problems, ensuring that children can learn effectively, adults can work safely and seniors can maintain their independence.

I ask that all members of this House join me in recognizing the significant contributions of optometrists within our health system in improving the health and well-being of British Columbians.

Royal Canadian Marine
Search and Rescue

Lynne Block: I rise today to recognize the remarkable dedication of Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue, West Vancouver station 1.

Across British Columbia, Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue operates 31 stations with over 950 volunteers. Together they completed more than 450 missions last year, giving over 70,000 hours of service, all completely volunteer-based. Their dedication is nothing short of extraordinary. Last year alone these volunteers responded to hundreds of missions, rescuing boaters in extreme and often dangerous conditions. Their courage and selflessness save lives every single day.

Beyond rescues, they contribute to marine environmental reporting, support the province of British Columbia, assist emergency response agencies and actively share their expertise at community events, fostering a culture of safety on our waters.

I had the privilege of meeting the amazing volunteers at the West Vancouver branch, including Gerard McKenzie, Rod Haymond and David Pfeil. Their dedication, courage and generosity of spirit are inspiring, and I feel fortunate knowing people like them are here to keep our communities safe.

On behalf of myself and my riding of West Vancouver–Capilano, I extend heartfelt gratitude to the Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue, West Vancouver, and all of the volunteers across the province. Your service saves lives and strengthens our communities, and we are deeply, deeply thankful.

Can everyone in the House please join me in showing our gratitude for these first responders and volunteers.

Real Acts of Caring Week

Steve Morissette: I rise today to reflect on Real Acts of Caring Week, observed across British Columbia from February 8 to 14. Each year students lead this important initiative, grounded in a simple yet powerful idea — that small, intentional acts of caring and kindness can strengthen our relationships, our schools and our communities.

[10:45 a.m.]

This year the focus was on mental health and well-being, a theme that could not be more timely or more necessary.

During that same week, events unfolded that deeply affected many of our communities

strengthen our relationships, our schools and our communities. This year the focus was on mental health and well-being, a theme that could not be more timely or more necessary.

During that same week, events unfolded that deeply affected many of our communities, leaving families, students and educators grappling with fear, grief and uncertainty. Even when tragedy does not occur in our own neighbourhoods, its impact travels swiftly through conversations, through social media and through the hearts and minds of young people trying to make sense of the world around them.

In moments like these, what matters most is how we respond. Real Acts of Caring Week reminds us that compassion is not passive. It is something we actively practise by listening without judgment, by refusing to participate in harmful narratives and by reminding young people that they are valued and respected exactly as they are.

Mental health and well-being are strengthened when students feel safe, seen and supported. While kindness cannot undo harm, it helps create the conditions necessary for healing and resilience.

The Real Acts of Caring Week has passed. Its message endures. The student leaders who embody this spirit throughout the year remind us that in our schools, our communities and, indeed, in this House, we each have the opportunity and the responsibility to model empathy and care.

Acts of caring are not confined to a single week in February. They are choices we make every day, especially in difficult times, about the kind of society we wish to build and the kind of people we aspire to be.

Community Gatherings

Rob Botterell: This was a big week for traditional community gatherings, some painful, some joyful. But all brought comfort, connection and social cohesion at a time when so much of the world feels like it’s tearing apart.

Let’s start with the happy ones. For the W̱SÁNEĆ, in my riding, February 17 was the first day of the moon of the child, the start of a new year when the earth starts to wake up and new food starts to grow.

February 17 was also lunar new year, complete with dumplings, cakes and sticky rice.

February 17 was also Shrove Tuesday, also known as Mardi Gras or Fat Tuesday, the last day before Lent and a good excuse to eat pancakes.

February 17 also marked the start of Ramadan, a celebration known for fasting from dawn to dusk, followed by a feast of tagines, soups, chicken and lentils.

Of course, these ceremonies and gatherings are more than just food. They are a chance to be together, share the many things we have in common, step back from the rush of daily commitments, clear out the things that are no longer serving us and start fresh in a season of growth.

In times of hardship, as we’ve experienced with the tragedy in Tumbler Ridge, we gather in a different way. We lean on tradition. We lean on each other to make it through. The familiar faces, songs, rituals and, yes, food bring comfort and strength when our foundation feels unstable, when events strike at the heart of our well-being.

So today a celebration of celebrations. Ramadan Mubarak, gung hay fat choy and happy pancake day.

Public Transit in Vancouver

Sunita Dhir: In Vancouver-Langara, public transit is part of everyday life. Ours is one of the highest transit-using constituencies in the province, with two Canada Line stations and several well-used bus routes like 49th Avenue and Marine Drive connecting people to work, school, family and community.

I personally enjoy taking transit whenever I can, and it gives me a real appreciation for how essential it is to so many residents. Hearing directly from community members about their experiences helps us better understand how we can serve them and strengthen our transportation system.

[10:50 a.m.]

I would like to recognize the meaningful work of Movement, Metro Vancouver transit riders, also known as Movement YVR, a grassroots, rider-led organization advocating for stronger public

recognize the meaningful work of Movement, Metro Vancouver Transit Riders, also known as Movement YVR, a grassroots rider-led organization advocating for stronger public transit across Metro Vancouver.

Founded by Denis Agar, Movement YVR brings together passionate volunteers and everyday riders who care deeply about accessible, affordable and dependable transit. Their advocacy reminds us that transit is ultimately about opportunity and access, ensuring people can participate fully in community life while also supporting climate action and more livable neighbourhoods.

I recently had the opportunity to ride the 100 Marpole 22nd Street Station route with Nav Sharma and Aman Chandi from Movement YVR. Seeing firsthand how important this route is for commuters was a valuable experience.

To all the volunteers and riders who continue to speak up and engage constructively, thank you for your dedication to building a more connected and sustainable region.

Oral Questions

Access to Maternity Care
Services in Hospitals

Trevor Halford: Today, the maternity ward at Peace Arch Hospital in the riding of Surrey–White Rock is closed for the fourth time in six weeks, the seventh time in ten weeks. Let me be clear. This government is failing mothers. Since December of last year, the maternity ward has been closed over 21 days. Expectant mothers are being left in limbo, which is completely unacceptable.

Doctors have been warning this government about a shortage of ob-gyn for years, and it has fallen on deaf ears. But this government has also failed to address the urgency that it deserves. My question to the Premier and to this government is a direct one. Why has this government failed to keep the doors of these maternity wards…? Whether it’s Peace Arch Hospital or Maple Ridge, why has this government failed mothers, and why does it continue to do so?

Hon. Josie Osborne: Thank you to the Leader of the Opposition for the question.

This is a very stressful situation I know for expectant mothers, for families awaiting the birth of their child. I want to assure all members of this House that the health authorities always take every step they possibly can to fill gaps in service, to find locums, and that there are unfortunately cases where it’s just not possible. This is because of a shortage of the specialists that are required for this service.

I want to assure all parents and expectant parents that they should attend the hospital nearest to them, that they should work with their care provider for alternate arrangements when they are required.

I also want to assure members of this House that I, this government, continue to do everything that we can to increase the number of specialists in this province. We are making progress through the actions that we are taking by recruiting physicians from other jurisdictions. We will continue this work in bringing in more physicians, in creating more physicians through the new medical school at SFU, for example.

In closing, I just want to, again, assure parents that they should work with their care providers, that that help is going to be there when they need it so that their children can be safely delivered.

Paramedics Labour Dispute

Trevor Halford: Here is the problem in itself. The answer that the minister just gave is an answer that she has given time and time again in this House, outside the media, more importantly to expectant mothers. The minister before her carried on that tradition as well. So the urgency that this government has, we are not seeing in the maternity wards.

The minister says to go to the nearest hospital. If it’s open, they can do that. But if you’re in other areas of this province, chances are it might not be. You might have to drive four or five hours to get that.

[10:55 a.m.]

This government…. It’s not that we don’t believe the minister; it’s the fact that the doctors don’t believe the minister. That is the problem. This government has lost all credibility when it comes to providing services

to get that. This government…. It’s not that we don’t believe the minister. It’s the fact that the doctors don’t believe the minister. That is the problem. This government has lost all credibility when it comes to providing services, specifically when it comes to providing maternity care.

Now what do we see? We see paramedics prepared to reduce their work at a time — whether it’s White Rock or Terrace or Prince George or Smithers — when if you call for an ambulance, it might not get there when you need it. That’s not the fault of the paramedics. Let me be clear. That is the fault of this Premier and this government. Full stop.

Will this minister agree? When 97 percent of the paramedics are prepared to reduce their work to fight for fair and equitable wages, will this minister stand up and realize that she has absolutely failed our front-line workers, specifically paramedics, in this province, yes or no?

Hon. Josie Osborne: I want to affirm that this government has taken consistent and urgent action in creating the conditions for more physicians, for more paramedics, for more nurses to join our health care workforce.

We all know that there is a global shortage of health care workers, which is why it’s incumbent on us to take these urgent actions and continue that work shortening the credentialing process for people to come to British Columbia and attracting physicians, nurses, health care workers from other jurisdictions to come here and work in British Columbia. When it comes to paramedics, this government has invested more money in the history of B.C. in the paramedic service across British Columbia. We’re going to continue this work.

We know how essential paramedics are to our health care system. When you call 911, that help has to be there for you so that you can get it. We’re going to continue that work with respect to bargaining. Of course, those conversations take place at the bargaining table. We expect the parties to continue to work together to develop a fair deal for everybody so that we can continue to strengthen the paramedic service across this province.

In closing, I just want to pause and reflect and say thank you to the incredible response from paramedics in Tumbler Ridge and those around the entire region who have come in to relieve those paramedics at this time. That is the epitome of what these people provide, the incredible service and dedication to the health, the safety and the well-being of British Columbians.

Transplant Waiting List Case

Kristina Loewen: This minister talks about working together, but I’ve been asking her to work with me since Friday. This ministry is failing. It’s failing Lyndsay Richholt. It failed her when they forgot about her for eight months. It failed her when they told her that she couldn’t use a live donor who was a stranger. It failed her when the model for the end-stage liver disease scoring system did not reflect her dire condition.

In January, Lyndsay was told that she would get a life-saving transplant date within a week. Three weeks have passed now. Her condition is worse, and there has been radio silence ever since. Because of this minister, Lyndsay is now in acute kidney failure, and she may have a blood infection.

Will the Premier explain to Lyndsay and her family who is going to be held responsible for this inhumane neglect?

Hon. Josie Osborne: Any person facing the issue, the urgent need for organ transplant here in British Columbia, is facing extremely challenging conditions. My heart goes out to anybody in that.

But it is inappropriate for this member to characterize the work that we are trying to do together and the work that has to be done with B.C. Transplant and any patient in the way that she has. It’s very important that we protect the integrity of the system when it comes to the way living donors make their decisions and prepare themselves for what is the ultimate gift for a person.

[11:00 a.m.]

The transplant teams that we have here in British Columbia are dedicated to patient-centred care. They use ethical processes in the way they communicate with recipients and donors so as to not put undue pressure on living donors. That is a vital and integral part of the system.

I will continue to work with the member to do everything that I can to be able to support this, but I will not compromise the integrity of the transplant system.

and donors so as to not put undue pressure on living donors. That is a vital and integral part of this system.

I will continue to work with the member to do everything that I can to be able to support this, but I will not compromise the integrity of the transplant system. All British Columbians should continue to have confidence in that belief, and it is vital that we don’t break that.

The Speaker: Member, supplemental?

Kristina Loewen: The problem is that there is no communication. There is no communication with Lyndsay, and there is no communication with me.

I stood up in this House in October and asked the minister to help with this mother and this family. I’ve contacted the minister several times after that. On Friday, I begged her to personally collaborate with me, and I was directed to her office with no meaningful communication since.

And 4,600 British Columbians died on wait-lists last year.

I am begging you…. To the minister, will this minister please help Lyndsay and her family before another British Columbian dies under your care?

Hon. Josie Osborne: The member and I have had several exchanges. On Friday, I was in Tumbler Ridge. So I wasn’t in a position to personally reach out, but I know that staff in my office have and that we are doing everything we can to support the member, to support in the way that we can a person such as Lyndsay who is facing this issue.

My office will always strive to provide as much information as we can, but again, I want to return to the fact that we cannot politically interfere in a decision being made by care providers, by trained medical staff.

Interjection.

The Speaker: Shhh.

Hon. Josie Osborne: That is why we will continue to respect the processes that B.C. Transplant uses.

Again, it is not usual for transplant programs to provide regular updates to recipients when a living donor is involved in order to protect the integrity, to respect the decision that a living donor is making, in order to make these decisions in an ethical way.

It is vital that we continue that work. I will support the member. I’ve reached out to her today, for example, but her characterization of the type of support that me and my office provide is simply incorrect.

I know that many members of this House understand that we will do everything to support them in the casework that they bring forward. Nothing is different about this.

Health Impacts of LNG Projects
and Methane Gas Flaring

Jeremy Valeriote: Every time we’re away from this chamber for a few weeks, new information about methane gas flaring and human health consequences emerge. Freedom of information requests by journalists have exposed that LNG Canada has been flaring up to 15 times more gas than expected due to a “integrity issue,” meaning export plant malfunctions have put the health of local residents at risk, and it may take years to fix.

For two years, as the scientific understanding has evolved, we’ve been saying that the LNG health impacts for people living in Kitimat, Squamish and Gingolx were improperly modelled under the EA process, with data gone missing, rushed regulatory review under the Christy Clark government and rubber stamping of proponents’ consultant reports.

Now that this information is public, will the Minister of Energy or the Minister of Environment finally admit that the human health impacts of flaring at LNG Canada, Woodfibre LNG and Ksi Lisims were poorly modelled and order independent assessments based on real satellite observations and current science?

Hon. Adrian Dix: I don’t, with respect, agree with the member’s characterization of the work of the environmental assessment office. Environmental assessment office does important, independent work in reviewing projects to ensure they meet world-class standards and best practices.

In addition, in British Columbia, we have a policy to ensure the electrification of LNG facilities, reducing, in fact, dramatically their climate impacts. Projects such as LNG Canada are extensively reviewed with respect to health and local community impact. This has occurred and will continue to occur.

In addition, there is strong provincial oversight of these facilities through the B.C. Energy Regulator and other parts of government.

[11:05 a.m.]

We have, I think, in B.C. — I think it’s internationally acknowledged — the lowest-emission LNG in the world. We work and ensure that all companies in B.C…. It’s in their interest, it’s in the public interest, and it’s in the interest of the people of Kitimat that they follow their expectations. We’ll continue to work to ensure that happens.

The Speaker: Member, supplemental?

internationally acknowledge the lowest-emission LNG in the world. We work and ensure that all companies in B.C.... It’s in their interest, it’s in the public interest, and it’s in the interest of the people of Kitimat that they follow their expectations. We’ll continue to work to ensure that that happens.

The Speaker: Member, supplemental.

Jeremy Valeriote: With respect, electrification doesn’t mitigate the flaring. While Kitimat suffers in foul air, constituents I represent in Squamish are wondering what toxins await when Woodfibre LNG starts flaring.

The truth is that nobody knows, which is why the District of Squamish Council recently called for conducting an independent cumulative health impact assessment on the B.C. gas industry. Hundreds of doctors and nurses have called for one, too.

This isn’t the first time that residents and experts have called for more data. In 2019, this government commissioned an expert report on fracking, but they managed to avoid an examination of the public health implications of fracking, despite an independent scientific review warning of unknown risks to air and water.

Budget 2026 shows that this government is committed to fracking out LNG at all costs, trading short-term gas revenues for long-term health care costs. If the Minister of Energy won’t do it, will the Minister of Health commission an independent review of LNG’s health impacts?

Hon. Adrian Dix: Well, the member is correct. There was a review of fracking undertaken by this government. There were recommendations, and the recommendations were implemented, which is exactly what one would expect would happen on an issue of such importance — health, environmental and economic importance.

Equally, the member suggests that the environmental assessment office doesn’t do its work. I can assure him — and, I know, the Minister of the Environment can assure him — that they absolutely do that work, as do the people regulating these industries.

With respect to Woodfibre LNG, I would say that if he’s referring to the budget and the results in the budget, yes, the value of natural gas that we have and that we produce in B.C. increases with LNG. It is the kind of policy that governments in B.C. have tried to implement for years, which is to upgrade the value of our resource.

In B.C., we have and will have the lowest-emission LNG in the world, including at Woodfibre. I understand that there is concern in some communities about the impacts of LNG, but I think the record is clear that B.C. is succeeding. We’re doing better for our economy, and our projects meet the best environmental standards in the world.

Government Position on DRIPA

Dallas Brodie: For months I was attacked by members on all sides of this House for my consistent opposition to the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act. Today I would like to formally say I told you so.

Even the Premier has started to move towards me on DRIPA, but instead of repealing it entirely, this government is merely trying to make amendments.

DRIPA is one of the main causes of our economic decline. This government likes to blame Donald Trump for all its failures, but the failures predate Trump. Endless consultations with unelected Chiefs and NGOs, mandated by DRIPA, are blocking projects and strangling business investment in B.C.

The repeal of DRIPA alone would save B.C. billions of dollars. With a deficit coming in at $13.3 billion, our natural resource sector failing, mills closing, businesses and capital fleeing east and south, my question is this: when will this government fully repeal DRIPA and unleash our economy?

Hon. David Eby: It’s hard to know where to start, Hon. Speaker. The member can certainly have her own positions, but she can’t have her own facts.

Capital investment, on a per-capita basis in this province, is up 79 percent since we formed government. We were second in Canada for full-time jobs created: 32,000 last year. In just the last three months, we had three major mine expansions announced, final investment decisions worth in excess of $3 billion.

In the next year, we’re looking at capital investment in the neighbourhood of $20 billion to $40 billion approaching final investment decisions. Every single one of these projects depends on good relations with First Nations and partnership in order to be able to deliver them in a timely way and provide the certainty that business is looking for.

[11:10 a.m.]

What the member is suggesting would be economic chaos for our province. Abandoning a relationship with First Nations that have constitutionally protected title rights in British Columbia and abandoning those partnerships would mean delays, cancellations and lost investment.

Our deficit is a challenge. It’s not just a challenge here. It’s a challenge in Alberta, Ontario, Canada, the U.K., the U.S.

abandoning a relationship with First Nations that have constitutionally protected title rights in British Columbia. Abandoning those partnerships would mean delays, cancellations, lost investment. Our deficit is a challenge, and it’s not just a challenge here. It’s a challenge in Alberta, Ontario, Canada, the U.K., the U.S., places around the world.

How is B.C. going to respond to this? By growing our economy through these partnerships that are going to deliver massive capital investments that create good, high-paying jobs for British Columbians, who receive training in skilled trades with the money that’s in this budget. That is how we’re moving forward.

What the member is suggesting would not just freeze us in place but would actually compromise the standard of living of British Columbians going forward for generations. She is wrong. She is wrong that anyone is moving towards her. Her positions are reprehensible, but they are also profoundly economically irresponsible.

The Speaker: Member, supplemental?

Government Spending
and Public Sector Jobs

Dallas Brodie: If the Premier believes that we are in such a good position with capital investment in this province, I would ask why we are projecting a deficit of $13.3 billion and why capital is fleeing this province, and you are aware of that.

DRIPA is just one of the many policies that’s helping destroy the finances of B.C. To quote Margaret Thatcher, “The problem with socialism is that you eventually run out of other people’s money,” and that’s where we’re at. We’re out of money. This government has a spending problem.

This government’s solution to every problem is adding new costly layers of bureaucracy that actually make the problems worse, and this is the core for a disastrous economic decline. Since this socialist government was elected in 2017, the number of full-time public sector staff has grown by over 210,000 employees, which is a 55 percent increase in eight years. That’s to the public service.

The finance minister’s promise to cut 15,000 public sector jobs over the next three years is frankly pathetic. Will this finance minister get real and make substantial across-the-board cuts to the size of government so that we can cut taxes and start growing our economy again?

Hon. David Eby: The member might not agree with the facts, but that’s not a surprise to me, given this member’s record. Since 2017, our GDP growth at 20.8 percent is second among all provinces in Canada. Our unemployment rate is one of the lowest in Canada.

There are structural challenges that face us that are driving this deficit. We have an aging population. It’s a big population. We need to invest in health care. The people that the member talks about that have been hired are paramedics, 3,000 paramedics in the last three years alone. Doctors — we’re adding 4,200 British Columbians connecting to a family doctor every week in this province because we’re hiring more family doctors.

I understand that the member is opposed to that. Apparently, that’s her position. But we have to provide good, high-quality health care and education services in this province. The conservatives say those are the very services that would bear the brunt of the cuts that they would bring. The member counts herself among them.

For us, we’re going to stand up for those strong public services, and we’re going to grow our economy to pay for the services that British Columbians need and deserve. We won’t cut on their backs.

Staffing Costs at
Long-Term-Care Facilities

Brennan Day: Mr. Speaker, 1.4 million British Columbians don’t have a family doctor.

This government signed an MOA with the Health Employers Association of B.C. to transition all eligible long-term-care homes in the province to fall under the union without any consultation. This transition is supposed to begin in October of this year, and there is no funding in this budget.

We know that operating costs under this transition are going to skyrocket. The government previously committed $85 million, and then it was $72 million. Long-term-care providers are in the dark.

To the Minister of Health, how much extra money can operators expect to be on the hook for to run long-term-care homes in B.C.?

Hon. Josie Osborne: Thank you to the member for the question and for pointing out the important work that this government is doing and has been doing to repatriate long-term-care workers back into the public system, to bring facilities under a collective agreement that treats workers fairly, pays them fairly and helps create the working conditions that are required to provide the care that our seniors depend on each and every single day in long-term care.

[11:15 a.m.]

That is the work that this government is committed to doing. That is treating people fairly, and that is providing the care that people depend on. We’re going to continue that work. We’re going to continue to build out the continuum of health care services that seniors need.

The Premier has already spoken to this, the dependence on primary care, bringing in family doctors

government is committed to doing, and that is treating people fairly, that is providing the care that people depend on. We’re going to continue that work. We’re going to continue to build out the continuum of health care services that seniors need.

The Premier has already spoken to this — the dependence on primary care, bringing in family doctors, having the nurses, the paramedics, the people that are vital to the health care system working in long-term care or throughout the system that we all depend on. We’re never going to stop doing this work.

The Speaker: Member, supplemental.

Budget Provisions for
Long-Term-Care Projects

Brennan Day: This isn’t just an attack on private and non-profit care homes under this government. They’re also attacking the public system where you expect those workers to participate. This government’s choice to indefinitely delay six long-term-care projects is a slap in the face to B.C. seniors.

Yesterday, this Finance Minister claimed it was because of massive costs per bed. I didn’t hear the Health Minister stand up or the Premier stand up to defend those choices. Other provinces have found a way to construct long-term-care beds at a third of this government’s cost. Because of this government’s failures and red tape, it’s becoming so expensive to build in B.C. that seniors are being left out in the cold.

Will the Health Minister stand up, look vulnerable seniors in the eye and defend the choices of her Finance Minister?

I know I wouldn’t.

Hon. Josie Osborne: We can all agree that nothing is more important than taking care of seniors and investing in their health. These are the people who built our province.

Our budget protects the core services that seniors and British Columbians depend on in the health care system. It continues the investments into the primary care system — into the doctors, the nurses, the health care professionals that seniors depend on. It continues the work to do on long-term care by building homes through standardized designs, different approaches that bring the cost down in a way that is sustainable.

Those are the decisions that this government is making — $35 million being added to Independent Living B.C. to help low- and moderate-income seniors stay at home longer. When it comes to staying at home longer, we know that that’s what seniors want to do. It helps for happier and healthier outcomes, and so investments are continuing into home supports, community-based home supports, the work that we’re doing with the United Way — over $300 million in last year’s budget that continues through these years.

This is incredibly important work. This is the work that we’re going to continue to do. We’re not going to stop.

Budget Priorities

Korky Neufeld: We know that this government doesn’t believe in letter grades, but the Vancouver Board of Trade does, and it gave this budget a D so that the NDP understands what a D is, and today it’s “developing.” The president and CEO of Vancouver Board of Trade said it was the worst grade she’d ever seen in her time. That’s a failing grade for a budget that fails British Columbians.

This minister said: “This is not a budget anyone would pop a champagne cork to.” No wonder there’s no champagne. No one can afford it.

My question to the Premier is: will you hold this minister back a full year because of her terrible report card?

Hon. Brenda Bailey: When we were working on Budget 2026, I heard from people who wanted to make deep cuts. We know that’s what the other side would do — deep cuts that would hurt British Columbians right now, cuts in health care, cuts in education.

I heard from others who said we have to keep spending at all costs; we need to keep going. We can’t do that because the interest rates are getting too high.

This is a balanced budget. What it does…. It is balanced because it does not take either of those extreme views.

Interjections.

The Speaker: Shhh.

Hon. Brenda Bailey: It takes neither of those extreme views. We, on the one hand, are continuing to invest, and on the other hand, we are working on the deficit and making difficult choices, like the choice to make some tax increases.

Frankly, these are challenging times. We have to make this decision. We know that that decision will help us protect the services that we are focused on.

[11:20 a.m.]

To the business community: it is true that your employees also rely on these services. They also expect us to continue to provide high-quality health care and attach people to doctors. They expect us to provide good education for their kids that are coming in to take jobs in British Columbia. They expect us to continue to drive down the cost of child care. These investments also help business.

expect us to continue to drive down the cost of child care. These investments also help business.

Kiel Giddens: There is no such thing as a balanced budget under this Premier and this Finance Minister. Budgets are about choices. The fact is that this Premier is choosing to cut funding for long-term-care beds. Their choices have led to record wait times in our hospitals and declining student test scores in math, science and reading.

They’ve chosen to fire the Merit Commissioner to reward friends and insiders. Obviously, these aren’t my words. This is coming from the Premier’s Deputy Minister: “an unsustainable provincial budget deficit.”

The choices of this Premier and this Finance Minister are to set records by tabling the two worst budget deficits this province has ever seen. The former Green Party leader, who propped up his predecessor’s government, called him the most destructive Premier in this province’s history. At this rate, my grandchildren’s children are going to be paying off this government’s debt.

Will the Premier apologize to future generations for the choices his government’s budget has made today?

Hon. David Eby: There was lots in the member’s question there. There’s no question that, nationally, provinces are facing a very challenging economic time. That’s not just in Canada. It’s around the world where we’re seeing slowing global economies. And he’s right. Budgets are about choices. How do we respond to this?

Now, we’re going to see Alberta’s budget soon. We’ll see Ontario’s, other provinces. Ontario has…. They’re going to be crossing $500 trillion in debt. Now, that’s a significant number, and our debt-to-GDP is way lower. Our overall debt is less than half of that. That’s a Conservative-run province that is now a province receiving equalization payments.

Now, I understand the member is concerned about seniors and about kids. Well, so are we, and that’s why, unlike the Conservatives, who made the commitment that education for children and health care for seniors — if they were on this side of the House — would take the brunt of the cuts that they would put forward. We won’t do that.

We will make sure that health care is delivered in this province. We will make sure that high-quality education is there for our kids, and we’ll make choices to reduce expenditure where we can. But what is going to solve this for us, for the long term, is to grow our economy. And that is why the members on both sides of the House will see our continued effort to land…

Interjections.

The Speaker: Members.

Hon. David Eby: …those major investments that will deliver economic growth for this province and high-paying jobs for British Columbians who receive training through this budget, with businesses supported with credits to invest in capital in this province so that we can grow the kind of economy that every British Columbian deserves, including future generations.

Now, we make no apologies for that. That is the direction that we have to go. That is the direction the country has to go, and I’m glad to have the Prime Minister’s support in this work and British Columbian’s support in growing our economy.

I hope they support those big projects and the opportunities for families, because that is what is going to ensure longevity and success for the province of British Columbia and for the country of Canada.

[End of question period.]

Orders of the Day

Reports from Committees

Selection Committee

Hon. Mike Farnworth: Hon. Speaker, I have the honour to present the first report of the Special Committee of Selection for the second session of the 43rd Parliament.

I move that the report be taken and read as received.

Motion approved.

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

Leave granted.

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

Motion approved.

Hon. Mike Farnworth: I call Motion 1 on the order paper.

[11:25 a.m.]

Government Motions on Notice

Hon. Mike Farnworth: I move Motion 1, of which notice has been given in my name on the order paper. The motion proposes amendments to the standing orders in relation to private members’ business.

[That the Standing Orders of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia be amended as follows:

1. By adding a new subsection (5), subsection (6), and subsection (7) to Standing Order 27:

Advancing Private Members’ business.

(5) The item of business that a Member wishes to advance shall be on the Order Paper when the Member reaches the third place on the list of assigned placements of Members to present Private Members’ business. If a Member has more than one item of business standing in their name on the Order Paper, when the Member reaches the third place on the list of assigned placements of Members to present Private Members’ business, the Member shall provide the Clerk of the House with written notice of the item of business the Member intends to advance, which shall be so designated on the Order Paper.

New Parliament.

(6) Notwithstanding Standing Order 27 (5), in a new Parliament, the first three Members on the placement of Members to present Private Members’ business shall ensure that their item of business appears on the Order Paper by the fourth sitting day following the opening of the Session.

Period of long adjournment.

(7) Notwithstanding Standing Order 27 (5), following a period of long adjournment, the second and third Members on the placement of Members to present Private Members’ business shall ensure that their item of business appears on the Order Paper by the fourth sitting day following the resumption of sittings, whether in a new Session or the same Session.

2. By adding the underlined text to Standing Order 27A (2):

Exchanging or withdrawing place.

(2) A Member may exchange their placement with another Member or withdraw their place by providing the Clerk of the House with written notice of their intention to this effect. After the opening of a new Parliament, a Member may only do so until the Member reaches the third place on the list of assigned placements of Members to present Private Members’ business.

3. By adding a new subsection (6) to Standing Order 27A:

No eligible or designated item of business.

(6) If a Member does not have an eligible or designated item of business to advance in accordance with Standing Order 27 (5), the Member shall be moved to the bottom of the placement list for Private Members’ business.

4. By deleting the text shown as struck out and adding the underlined text in Standing Order 84A (2):

84A.(2) The Select Standing Committee on Private Bills and Private Members’ Bills shall, within 3045 sitting days of the Bill’s committal to the Committee, report the Bill back to the House with or without amendment.

That the Standing Orders of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia be amended by replacing Standing Order 27B as follows, retroactive to the start of the Second Session of the Forty-third Parliament:

Effect of prorogation on Private Members’ business.

27B. (1) A prorogation of the House shall not have the effect of nullifying a Public Bill in the Hands of a Private Member on the Order Paper that has been moved at second reading or progressed to a subsequent stage of consideration. Such Bill shall be reinstated on the Order Paper in the next Session to its last stage of consideration at the time of prorogation, maintaining its order of precedence.

(2) A prorogation of the House shall not have the effect of nullifying a Private Member’s motion that has been moved but on which the question has not been put. Such motion shall be reinstated on the Order Paper in the next Session, maintaining its order of precedence.

And that the above amendments to the Standing Orders of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia not apply to the consideration of the designated item of business brought forward by the Member for Prince George-Valemount and the Member for Courtenay-Comox.]

Motion approved.

I call Motion 1 on the order paper.

Government Motions on Notice

Hon. Mike Farnworth: I move Motion 1, of which notice has been given in my name on the order paper. The motion proposes amendments to the standing orders in relation to private members’ business.

[That the Standing Orders of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia be amended as follows:

1. By adding a new subsection (5), subsection (6), and subsection (7) to Standing Order 27:

Advancing Private Members’ business.

(5) The item of business that a Member wishes to advance shall be on the Order Paper when the Member reaches the third place on the list of assigned placements of Members to present Private Members’ business. If a Member has more than one item of business standing in their name on the Order Paper, when the Member reaches the third place on the list of assigned placements of Members to present Private Members’ business, the Member shall provide the Clerk of the House with written notice of the item of business the Member intends to advance, which shall be so designated on the Order Paper.

New Parliament.

(6) Notwithstanding Standing Order 27 (5), in a new Parliament, the first three Members on the placement of Members to present Private Members’ business shall ensure that their item of business appears on the Order Paper by the fourth sitting day following the opening of the Session.

Period of long adjournment.

(7) Notwithstanding Standing Order 27 (5), following a period of long adjournment, the second and third Members on the placement of Members to present Private Members’ business shall ensure that their item of business appears on the Order Paper by the fourth sitting day following the resumption of sittings, whether in a new Session or the same Session.

2. By adding the underlined text to Standing Order 27A (2):

Exchanging or withdrawing place.

(2) A Member may exchange their placement with another Member or withdraw their place by providing the Clerk of the House with written notice of their intention to this effect. After the opening of a new Parliament, a Member may only do so until the Member reaches the third place on the list of assigned placements of Members to present Private Members’ business.

3. By adding a new subsection (6) to Standing Order 27A:

No eligible or designated item of business.

(6) If a Member does not have an eligible or designated item of business to advance in accordance with Standing Order 27 (5), the Member shall be moved to the bottom of the placement list for Private Members’ business.

4. By deleting the text shown as struck out and adding the underlined text in Standing Order 84A (2):

84A.(2) The Select Standing Committee on Private Bills and Private Members’ Bills shall, within 3045 sitting days of the Bill’s committal to the Committee, report the Bill back to the House with or without amendment.

That the Standing Orders of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia be amended by replacing Standing Order 27B as follows, retroactive to the start of the Second Session of the Forty-third Parliament:

Effect of prorogation on Private Members’ business.

27B. (1) A prorogation of the House shall not have the effect of nullifying a Public Bill in the Hands of a Private Member on the Order Paper that has been moved at second reading or progressed to a subsequent stage of consideration. Such Bill shall be reinstated on the Order Paper in the next Session to its last stage of consideration at the time of prorogation, maintaining its order of precedence.

(2) A prorogation of the House shall not have the effect of nullifying a Private Member’s motion that has been moved but on which the question has not been put. Such motion shall be reinstated on the Order Paper in the next Session, maintaining its order of precedence.

And that the above amendments to the Standing Orders of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia not apply to the consideration of the designated item of business brought forward by the Member for Prince George-Valemount and the Member for Courtenay-Comox.]

Motion approved.

Hon. Mike Farnworth: I call Motion 2 on the order paper.

I move Motion 2, of which notice has been given in my name on the order paper. The motion proposes amendments to the standing orders in relation to the introduction of treaty-related legislation for consideration by the House.

[That the Standing Orders of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia be amended by adding a new Standing Order 25C, as follows:

Treaty-Related Legislation

Participation of First Nation.

25C.(1) The Speaker may, at the request of the Government House Leader and in consultation with the other House Leaders, authorize a representative of a First Nation to address the House in conjunction with the introduction of treaty-related legislation for consideration by the House. For such a proceeding:

(a) the representative of the First Nation that is the signatory to the treaty shall be invited to address the House following the conclusion of proceedings at the Introduction and First Reading of the related Bill; and

(b) the leader of each recognized party or their designate shall thereafter have an opportunity to provide a response, bound by the practices of the House applicable to Ministerial Statements.

(2) The Speaker may, in consultation with the House Leaders, facilitate appropriate ceremonial and cultural arrangements for such occasions.]

Motion approved.

Hon. Mike Farnworth: I call Motion 3 on the order paper.

I move Motion 3, of which notice has been given in my name on the order paper. The motion provides terms of reference for the Select Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services.

[That the Select Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services be empowered to exercise oversight of each of the following statutory officers: Auditor General, Chief Electoral Officer, Conflict of Interest Commissioner, Human Rights Commissioner, Information and Privacy Commissioner and Registrar of Lobbyists, Merit Commissioner, Ombudsperson, Police Complaint Commissioner and Representative for Children and Youth. This includes:

a. considering and making recommendations on the annual reports, rolling three-year service plans, budgets and any other matters respecting the effective and efficient administration of each statutory office;

b. inquiring into and making recommendations with respect to other matters brought to the Committee’s attention by a statutory officer; and,

c. considering and making decisions regarding the terms and conditions of employment of each statutory officer arising as a request of a statutory officer during their term of appointment.

That the Committee be designated as the Committee referred to in sections 6, 7, 19, 20, 21 and 23 of the Auditor General Act (S.B.C. 2003, c. 2) and that the report in section 22 of the Auditor General Act (S.B.C. 2003, c. 2) be referred to the Committee.

That the Committee be designated as the Committee referred to in sections 47.02 and 47.03 of the Human Rights Code (R.S.B.C. 1996, c. 210).

That the Committee be designated as the Committee referred to in section 3 of the Budget Transparency and Accountability Act (S.B.C. 2000, c. 23).

That the Committee be designated as the Committee referred to in section 21 of the Economic Stabilization (Tariff Response) Act.

That, in addition to the powers previously conferred upon the Select Standing Committees of the House, the Select Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services be empowered to:

a. appoint of its number one or more subcommittees and to refer to such subcommittees any of the matters referred to the Committee and to delegate to the subcommittees all or any of its powers except the power to report directly to the House;

b. sit during a period in which the House is adjourned, during the recess after prorogation until the next following Session and during any sitting of the House;

c. conduct consultations by any means the Committee considers appropriate;

d. adjourn from place to place as may be convenient; and,

e. retain personnel as required to assist the Committee.

That the Committee report to the House as soon as possible, and that during a period of adjournment, the Committee deposit its reports with the Clerk of the Legislative Assembly, and upon resumption of the sittings of the House, or in the next following Session, as the case may be, the Chair present all reports to the House.]

Motion approved.

Hon. Mike Farnworth: I call Motion 4 on the order paper.

I move Motion 4, of which notice has been given in my name on the order paper. The motion provides terms of reference for the Select Standing Committee on Public Accounts.

[That all reports of the Auditor General of British Columbia transmitted to the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly be deemed referred to the Select Standing Committee on Public Accounts.

For greater certainty, the following exceptions are provided:

a. the report referred to in section 22 of the Auditor General Act (S.B.C. 2003, c. 2) shall be referred to the Select Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services; and,

b. reports of the Auditor General respecting the Legislative Assembly prepared under the provisions of the Legislative Assembly Management Committee Act (R.S.B.C. 1996, c. 258) shall be referred to the Legislative Assembly Management Committee.

That the Select Standing Committee on Public Accounts be the Committee referred to in sections 10 and 14 of the Auditor General Act (S.B.C. 2003, c. 2).

That, in addition to the powers previously conferred upon the Select Standing Committees of the House, the Select Standing Committee on Public Accounts be empowered to:

a. appoint of its number one or more subcommittees and to refer to such subcommittees any of the matters referred to the Committee and to delegate to the subcommittees all or any of its powers except the power to report directly to the House;

b. sit during a period in which the House is adjourned, during the recess after prorogation until the next following Session and during any sitting of the House;

c. adjourn from place to place as may be convenient; and,

d. retain personnel as required to assist the Committee.

That the Committee report to the House as soon as possible, and that during a period of adjournment, the Committee deposit its reports with the Clerk of the Legislative Assembly, and upon resumption of the sittings of the House, or in the next following Session, as the case may be, the Chair present all reports to the House.]

Motion approved.

Hon. Mike Farnworth: I call Motion 5 on the order paper.

I move Motion 5, of which notice has been given in my name on the order paper. The motion provides terms of reference for the Select Standing Committee on Children and Youth.

[That the Select Standing Committee on Children and Youth be empowered to foster greater awareness and understanding among legislators and the public of the B.C. child welfare system, including the specific needs of Indigenous children, youth, families and communities, and in particular to:

a. receive and review the annual service plan from the Representative for Children and Youth (the “Representative”) that includes a statement of goals and identifies specific objectives and performance measures that will be required to exercise the powers and perform the functions and duties of the Representative during the fiscal year;

b. be the Committee to which the Representative reports, at least annually;

c. refer to the Representative for investigation the critical injury or death of a child;

d. receive and consider all reports and plans transmitted by the Representative to the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly; and,

e. undertake, pursuant to section 30 (1) of the Representative for Children and Youth Act (S.B.C. 2006, c. 29), a comprehensive review of the Act or portions of the Act at least once every five years, but by no later than April 1, 2027, to determine whether the functions of the Representative described in section 6 are still required to ensure that the needs of children and young adults as defined in that section are met.

That, in addition to the powers previously conferred upon Select Standing Committees of the House, the Select Standing Committee on Children and Youth be empowered to:

a. appoint of its number one or more subcommittees and to refer to such subcommittees any of the matters referred to the Committee and to delegate to the subcommittees all or any of its powers except the power to report directly to the House;

b. sit during a period in which the House is adjourned, during the recess after prorogation until the next following Session and during any sitting of the House;

c. conduct consultations by any means the Committee considers appropriate;

d. adjourn from place to place as may be convenient; and,

e. retain personnel as required to assist the Committee.

That the Committee report to the House as soon as possible, and that during a period of adjournment, the Committee deposit its reports with the Clerk of the Legislative Assembly, and upon resumption of the sittings of the House, or in the next following Session, as the case may be, the Chair present all reports to the House.]

Motion approved.

Hon. Mike Farnworth: I call Motion 6 on the order paper.

I move Motion 6, of which notice has been given in my name on the order paper, to appoint a special committee on democratic and electoral reform.

[That a Special Committee on Democratic and Electoral Reform be appointed to review the administration of the forty-third provincial general election, including consideration of the Chief Electoral Officer’s report on the forty-third provincial general election, and make recommendations for improvements for future elections.

That the Special Committee have the powers of a Select Standing Committee and in addition be empowered to:

a. appoint of its number one or more subcommittees and to refer to such subcommittees any of the matters referred to the Special Committee and to delegate to the subcommittees all or any of its powers except the power to report directly to the House;

b. sit during a period in which the House is adjourned, during the recess after prorogation until the next following Session and during any sitting of the House;

c. conduct consultations by any means the Special Committee considers appropriate;

d. adjourn from place to place as may be convenient; and,

e. retain personnel as required to assist the Special Committee.

That any information and materials previously under consideration by the Special Committee appointed by order of the Legislative Assembly on April 9, 2025, for the same purpose be referred to the Special Committee.

That the Special Committee report to the House by May 14, 2026, and that during a period of adjournment, the Special Committee deposit its reports with the Clerk of the Legislative Assembly, and upon resumption of the sittings of the House, or in the next following Session, as the case may be, the Chair present all reports to the House.

That the Special Committee be composed of the following Members: Jennifer Blatherwick (Convener), Rob Botterell, Sheldon Clare, Sunita Dhir, Dana Lajeunesse, Harwinder Sandhu and Ward Stamer.]

Motion approved.

Hon. Mike Farnworth: I call Motion 7 on the order paper.

I move Motion 7, of which notice has been given in my name on the order paper, to appoint a special committee to review the Lobbyists Transparency Act.

[That a Special Committee to Review the Lobbyists Transparency Act be appointed to review the Lobbyists Transparency Act (S.B.C. 2001, c. 42), pursuant to section 11.1 of the Act.

That the Special Committee have the powers of a Select Standing Committee and in addition be empowered to:

a. appoint of its number one or more subcommittees and to refer to such subcommittees any of the matters referred to the Special Committee and to delegate to the subcommittees all or any of its powers except the power to report directly to the House;

b. sit during a period in which the House is adjourned, during the recess after prorogation until the next following Session and during any sitting of the House;

c. conduct consultations by any means the Special Committee considers appropriate;

d. adjourn from place to place as may be convenient; and,

e. retain personnel as required to assist the Special Committee.

That any information and materials previously under consideration by the Special Committee appointed by order of the Legislative Assembly on April 30, 2025, for the same purpose be referred to the Special Committee.

That the Special Committee report to the House by April 29, 2026, and that during a period of adjournment, the Special Committee deposit its reports with the Clerk of the Legislative Assembly, and upon resumption of the sittings of the House, or in the next following Session, as the case may be, the Chair present all reports to the House.

That the Special Committee be composed of the following Members: Steve Morissette (Convener), George Anderson, Rosalyn Bird, Kiel Giddens and Harwinder Sandhu.]

Motion approved.

Hon. Mike Farnworth: I call Motion 8 on the order paper.

I move Motion 8, of which notice has been given in my name on the order paper, to appoint a special committee to review the human rights code.

[That a Special Committee to Review Provisions of the Human Rights Code be appointed to review sections 47.01 to 47.24 of the Human Rights Code (R.S.B.C 1996, c. 210), pursuant to section 50.1 of the Act.

That the Special Committee have the powers of a Select Standing Committee and in addition be empowered to:

a. appoint of its number one or more subcommittees and to refer to such subcommittees any of the matters referred to the Special Committee and to delegate to the subcommittees all or any of its powers except the power to report directly to the House;

b. sit during a period in which the House is adjourned, during the recess after prorogation until the next following Session and during any sitting of the House;

c. conduct consultations by any means the Special Committee considers appropriate;

d. adjourn from place to place as may be convenient; and,

e. retain personnel as required to assist the Special Committee.

That any information and materials previously under consideration by the Special Committee appointed by order of the Legislative Assembly on May 26, 2025, for the same purpose be referred to the Special Committee.

That the Special Committee report to the House by May 25, 2026, and that during a period of adjournment, the Special Committee deposit its reports with the Clerk of the Legislative Assembly, and upon resumption of the sittings of the House, or in the next following Session, as the case may be, the Chair present all reports to the House.

That the Special Committee be composed of the following Members: Mable Elmore (Convener), Rohini Arora, Susie Chant, Scott McInnis and Teresa Wat.]

Motion approved.

Hon. Mike Farnworth: I call Motion 9 on the order paper.

I move Motion 9, of which notice has been given in my name on the order paper, to appoint a special committee on police complaints.

[That a Special Committee on Police Complaints be appointed to conduct an audit respecting the outcome or resolution of randomly selected complaints and investigations, pursuant to section 51.2 of the Police Act (R.S.B.C. 1996, c. 367).

That the Special Committee have the powers of a Select Standing Committee and in addition be empowered to:

a. appoint of its number one or more subcommittees and to refer to such subcommittees any of the matters referred to the Special Committee and to delegate to the subcommittees all or any of its powers except the power to report directly to the House;

b. sit during a period in which the House is adjourned, during the recess after prorogation until the next following Session and during any sitting of the House;

c. conduct consultations by any means the Special Committee considers appropriate;

d. adjourn from place to place as may be convenient; and,

e. retain personnel as required to assist the Special Committee.

That any information and materials previously under consideration by the Special Committee appointed by order of the Legislative Assembly on November 24, 2025, for the same purpose be referred to the Special Committee.

That the Special Committee report to the House by November 23, 2026, and that during a period of adjournment, the Special Committee deposit its reports with the Clerk of the Legislative Assembly, and upon resumption of the sittings of the House, or in the next following Session, as the case may be, the Chair present all reports to the House.

That the Special Committee be composed of the following Members: Elenore Sturko (Convener), Garry Begg, Steve Kooner, Macklin McCall and Darlene Rotchford.]

Motion approved.

Hon. Mike Farnworth: I now have the penultimate motion. I call Motion 10 on the order paper.

I move Motion 10, of which notice has been given in my name on the order paper, to appoint a special committee to review provisions of the Insurance (Vehicle) Act.

[That a Special Committee to Review Provisions of the Insurance (Vehicle) Act be appointed to review Parts 10 and 11 of the Insurance (Vehicle) Act (R.S.B.C. 1996, c. 231), pursuant to section 182 of the Act.

That the Special Committee have the powers of a Select Standing Committee and in addition be empowered to:

a. appoint of its number one or more subcommittees and to refer to such subcommittees any of the matters referred to the Special Committee and to delegate to the subcommittees all or any of its powers except the power to report directly to the House;

b. sit during a period in which the House is adjourned, during the recess after prorogation until the next following Session and during any sitting of the House;

c. conduct consultations by any means the Special Committee considers appropriate;

d. adjourn from place to place as may be convenient; and,

e. retain personnel as required to assist the Special Committee.

That the Special Committee report to the House within one year of its appointment, and that during a period of adjournment, the Special Committee deposit its reports with the Clerk of the Legislative Assembly, and upon resumption of the sittings of the House, or in the next following Session, as the case may be, the Chair present all reports to the House.

That the Special Committee be composed of the following Members: Stephanie Higginson (Convener), Jennifer Blatherwick, Hon Chan, George Chow, Brennan Day, Janet Routledge and Jeremy Valeriote.]

Motion approved.

Hon. Mike Farnworth: The last motion. I call Motion 11 on the order paper.

I move Motion 11, of which notice has been given in my name on the order paper. The motion would enable certain proceedings of the House to be undertaken in three sections for the remainder of the current session.

[That, for the remainder of the current Session:

GENERAL

1. Certain proceedings of the House may be undertaken in three sections, designated Section A, Section B, and Section C, to be subject to the rules that follow.

2. Section A and Section C sit in such committee room as may be designated from time to time, and Section B sit in the Legislative Chamber.

3. Section A, Section B, and Section C be authorized to examine all Estimates, and for all purposes be deemed to be the Committee of Supply, and that the Standing Orders relating to the consideration of Estimates in the Committee of Supply and to Committees of the Whole House be applicable to such proceedings, save and except that, during proceedings in Committee of Supply in Section A and Section C, a Minister may defer to a Deputy Minister to permit such Deputy to reply to a question put to the Minister.

4. Section A, Section B, and Section C be authorized to consider bills at committee stage after second reading thereof, and for all purposes be deemed to be a Committee of the Whole House, and that the Standing Orders relating to the consideration of bills in a Committee of the Whole House be applicable to such proceedings.

5. Estimates or bills may be considered in the order determined by the Government House Leader and may at any time be subsequently referred to another designated Section, as determined by the Government House Leader in accordance with Standing Order 27 (2).

COMPOSITION

6. The Deputy Chair, Committee of the Whole or their designate preside in Section A and Section C.

7. Section A and Section C consist of ten Members, not including the Chair, being five Members of the B.C. NDP Caucus, four Members of the Conservative Party of British Columbia Caucus, and one Member of the B.C. Green Party Caucus.

8. The Members of Section A be: the Minister whose Estimates are under examination or who is in charge of the bill under consideration and Rohini Arora, Hon. Ravi Parmar, Janet Routledge, Amna Shah, Tony Luck, Scott McInnis, Heather Maahs, Ward Stamer and Jeremy Valeriote.

9. The Members of Section C be: the Minister whose Estimates are under examination or who is in charge of the bill under consideration and Hon. Adrian Dix, Stephanie Higginson, Hon. Sheila Malcolmson, Steve Morissette, Brennan Day, Kristina Loewen, Korky Neufeld, Misty Van Popta and Rob Botterell.

10. Substitutions for Members of Section A and Section C be permitted with the consent of the Member’s Caucus Whip.

11. Section B be composed of all Members of the House.

DIVISIONS

12. When a division is requested in Section A, the division bells shall be rung four times, and the division shall proceed in accordance with Standing Order 16.

13. When a division is requested in Section B, the division bells shall be rung three times, at which time proceedings in Section A and Section C shall be suspended, and the division shall proceed in accordance with Standing Order 16.

14. When a division is requested in Section C, the division bells shall be rung five times, and the division shall proceed in accordance with Standing Order 16.

15. If a division is underway in Section A or Section C at the time that a division is requested in Section B, the division in Section B be suspended until the completion of the division in Section A or Section C.

REPORTING AND COMPLETION

16. At 15 minutes prior to the ordinary time fixed for adjournment of the House, the Chair of Section A and Section C shall report to the House.]

Motion approved.

Hon. Mike Farnworth: I call continued debate on the budget.

Budget Debate
(continued)

The Speaker: Member for Abbotsford West will continue.

[Lorne Doerkson in the chair.]

Deputy Speaker: Members, we’ll ask you to take your conversations into the hallway.

[11:30 a.m.]

We are going to get back to our budget debate.

Korky Neufeld: Before I continue on with my speech that I started with yesterday, I just want to remind everyone in the House and also everyone in British Columbia to continue praying for 12-year-old Maya Gebala, who is fighting for her life in Children’s Hospital here in Vancouver.

We stand with you, and so does all of British Columbia stand with Tumbler

Korky Neufeld: Before I continue on with my speech that with I started yesterday, I just want to remind everyone in the House and also everyone in British Columbia to continue praying for 12-year-old Maya Gebala, who is fighting for her life in Children’s Hospital here in Vancouver.

We stand with you, and so does all of British Columbia stand with Tumbler Ridge at this time.

I want to continue my response to the budget, from the chamber of commerce from Abbotsford. It raises the 7 percent, across multiple sectors, tax. I said yesterday that manufacturers will pay more for engineering services, developers will pay more for design and architectural services, farm operators and processors face higher compliance and advisory costs, and property managers and commercial landlords face additional expenses that ultimately flow through to the tenants. So what this is saying is that the end user will pay for this.

These are not abstract increases. They are direct cost pressures in an already competitive labour and investment environment.

At the same time, the suspension of bracket indexation reduces disposable income for households, placing additional pressures on wage expectations and consumer spending. When government raises costs broadly while growth remains modest, competitiveness erodes.

Continued infrastructure investment supporting goods movement in the Fraser Valley corridor is absolutely essential, according to the Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce. For Abbotsford, positioned to lead in manufacturing, agriculture, aerospace and transportation, these measures absolutely matter, but they are not a comprehensive growth strategy. They are targeted supports layered onto a broader fiscal framework that remains structurally imbalanced.

We must also speak plainly about regional impact. A project that would have provided 200 long-term care beds in Abbotsford is among seven projects placed on hold. That’s 200 less seniors that will find care. And we know what’s happening to the baby boomers: they’re aging out. In a fast-growing community with demographic pressures, this is deeply concerning, not only for Abbotsford but for these other long-term care beds that have now been permanently mothballed.

When fiscal constraints force delays in essential infrastructure, the cost is borne locally by families, by seniors, by employers who rely on strong community services to attract and retain workers.

Abbotsford is ready to lead. We are strategically positioned along key transport corridors. We are home to one of the most productive agricultural regions in the country. We have advanced manufacturing capacity. We have aerospace expertise. We have a growing population and an entrepreneurial culture. But to unlock that potential, the province must focus in on four main pillars: pillar No. 1, productivity; pillar No. 2, regulatory efficiency; pillar No. 3, strategic infrastructure; and pillar No. 4, fiscal sustainability.

Prosperity is not funded by debt; it is built by growth. The Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce will continue to advocate for a credible timeline towards fiscal stabilization, not indefinite deficits. We will advocate for regulatory modernization and faster permitting. Businesses cannot wait years for approvals in a globally competitive environment.

We will advocate for workforce development alignment with industry demands, including increased per-student funding for post-secondary institutions in the Fraser Valley and beyond. Our region must train and retain the talent required for expansion.

Like all other regions in the province, if we do not invest in local post-secondary education in different regions, we will lose the students that are being trained and equipped to supply the needs in the industry in that region. They will leave, and they will not come back. We have to support local institutions in our regions across the province.

We will advocate for modernization of agricultural land reserve regulations to enable greater industry competitiveness and address the shortage of industrial land while preserving the agricultural productivity that defines Abbotsford’s region.

[11:35 a.m.]

We will advocate for strategic infrastructure investments, including flood mitigation and the expansion of Highway 1, projects that directly support economic resilience and goods movement across western Canada.

We saw what that did in the two floods we previously just had. It stops the movement of goods and services far beyond the Fraser Valley into the Interior. We provide goods and services

including flood mitigation and the expansion of Highway 1, projects that directly support economic resilience and goods movement across western Canada.

We saw what that did in the two floods we previously just had. It stops the movement of goods and services far beyond the Fraser Valley into the Interior. We provide goods and services — Highway 1 provides goods and services — for the whole province. This is not about partisanship. It’s about trajectory.

Budget 2026 reflects a government navigating fiscal constraint while attempting to preserve services. But preservation is not the same as progress. At a time of record deficit and rising debt, British Columbia cannot afford incrementalism. We need a decisive, disciplined, pro-growth strategy. The Fraser Valley stands ready to drive that growth. Our businesses are resilient. Our entrepreneurs are innovative. Our workforce is committed. What we need now is a fiscal and economic framework that matches that ambition.

British Columbia’s prosperity will not be secured through expanding taxation and sustained deficits. It’ll be secured through productivity, competitiveness and disciplined management. Budget 2026 does not address this. It falls short.

The Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce will continue to be the voice of business, advocating for policies that build growth, restore balance and ensure that our region and our province thrive for generations to come.

Well, let’s talk about health care; 42 percent of British Columbians say it’s difficult or impossible to access non-emergency care normally handled by a family doctor. In 2025 alone, there were 250 temporary ER closures across the province. This budget contains no new, transformative plan to address those closures. Shame on them.

Six long-term-care homes have been delayed — Abbotsford, Campbell River, Chilliwack, Delta, Fort St. John, Squamish — pushing desperately needed beds years into the future, if not mothballed altogether.

Mental health funding sees no new expansion beyond previous announcements and even cuts within the Ministry of Children and Family Development. Meanwhile, interest payments continue to grow.

Let me just share with you some thoughts on Abbotsford Regional Hospital. What is happening today in Abbotsford Regional Hospital should alarm every person in this House. Budget 2026 does not think to alleviate the pressures at Abbotsford Regional Hospital. This is not a temporary surge. This is not a one-off bad week. This is a systemic failure unfolding in real time in Abbotsford, and patients are paying the price.

Abbotsford Regional Hospital is operating at over 100 percent capacity, reaching its high at 128 percent. Doctors tell us the hospital is bursting at the seams. Patients are being treated in hallways, alcoves, closets and waiting rooms, not because it’s appropriate, but because there’s nowhere else to put them. This is what front-line physicians are calling “hallway health care.” Up to 40 percent of patients are placed in non-designated care areas. Patients are using commodes in public view. Conversations about diagnosis, treatment plans and end-of-life decisions are happening within earshot of strangers.

I would like everybody in the House to put yourself in that. You’re on a stretcher. You’re in a hallway. You’re vulnerable. You’re discussing personal, private, sensitive information with people all around you who can hear every single word that is spoken. Shame on this government. This is not dignified. It is not safe. It is not acceptable in a developing country.

Budget 2026 ignores Abbotsford Regional Hospital needs. Doctors report 90 percent of the admitted patients are waiting up to 114.9 hours, nearly five full days, in the emergency department before getting a bed. Some patients wait even longer.

Emergency rooms are meant to stabilize patients, not warehouse them. For elderly patients in particular, these prolonged stays are devastating. Doctors describe rising rates of confusion, delirium, falls, pressure ulcers, infections and poorer long-term outcomes, simply because patients are trapped for days on stretchers in loud, crowded hallways.

[11:40 a.m.]

Where is the commitment from this budget for the Abbotsford residents? One physician with over 30 years of experience says this is the worst congestion he has ever seen. Others say…. She leaves every shift carrying moral distress. Her words are heartbreaking: “My heart is broken. These are not conditions you would expect to see in a developed country.”

When doctors and people trained to endure pressure

every shift carrying moral distress. Her words are heartbreaking: “My heart is broken.” These are not conditions you would expect to see in a developed country.”

When doctors and people trained to endure pressure say they are demoralized, we should listen. Budget 2026 remains silent as doctors wait for supports. This crisis is being driven by three clear failures: not enough beds, not enough staff, not enough space for rapidly growing and aging Fraser Valley population. The hospital has 275 acute care beds, yet an average of 347 patients need those beds. That gap is filled with stretchers, hallways, and makeshift care spaces.

Yes, Fraser Health points to alternate-level-of-care patients. Yes, winter surges add pressures. But these explanations do not absolve responsibility. They underline it. We have known for years that the Fraser Valley is growing. We have known for years that the population is aging. We have known for years that Abbotsford Regional Hospital is a no-refusal regional referral site. And yet, here we are.

Budget 2026 has ignored these pressures. Staffing shortages compound the problem. Nurses are stretched beyond safe ratios. Burnout is rampant. The back door is as big as the front door. Yes, we’re attracting people, but we’re losing them just as fast. One nurse is often responsible for far too many patients, creating a work environment that doctors themselves describe as demoralizing. When health care workers burn out, patients suffer. And the system loses the very people it needs to recover. And yet Budget 2026’s increase in health care costs does nothing for the region.

I could go on. I have pages and pages of things that I could talk about with regard to Budget 2026, but I just want to make a few closing comments with the 48 seconds I have left. There was an opportunity here to aim for something higher. There was an opportunity here to give hope to British Columbians. There was an opportunity to give hope to businesses. There was an opportunity here to give hope to families.

This budget fell short. It took away hope. It demoralized people. And it’s shameful that this government can stand up and applaud a budget that is deplorable. That’s why I will not support this budget, and I will continue to speak out with the faults that it presents.

Hon. Christine Boyle: I thank my colleagues in the House for the opportunity to speak on this budget.

Before I get into the budget, I would like to begin by acknowledging that I am honoured to be here today in this House and on the territory of the lək̓ʷəŋən peoples, the Songhees and Esquimalt Nations.

I would also like to take the opportunity to thank the Minister of Finance and her team for their work in delivering Budget 2026, a collective effort. I know how hard the minister and her team have worked on every single line of this budget and am grateful for all of that work.

I also want to thank my own staff team at the Ministry of Housing and Municipal Affairs, who have worked tirelessly all year to support British Columbians and who put in extra time recently as every ministry does to support Budget 2026.

I’m grateful to be here as minister to highlight the ways that this budget recommits our focus on ensuring people have safe, affordable homes in a time of economic uncertainty. Last July, I was appointed as Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs. It’s a role I take on with deep respect and a strong sense of responsibility. As I rise today to speak about Budget 2026, this is my first opportunity as Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs to walk in the footsteps of the ministers before me, who I’m proud to say have made record and much-needed investments into affordable housing for people and families all across this province.

[11:45 a.m.]

Budget 2026 is born at a time of important choices in this province, choices between

much-needed investments into affordable housing for people and families all across this province.

Budget 2026 is born at a time of important choices in this province, choices between renewing our promise to put people first or going back to a time when housing prices were at record highs, where rent availability was at record lows and people living on the street had nowhere to turn for support. I remember hearing stories of 100 people lining up to look at one rental unit and the scarcity and instability that renters felt during that time of skyrocketing housing prices under the previous government, with no attention or action to try to reduce them.

We have taken important actions to change course, and they are making a difference for families all across B.C. We will continue that work. Today I want to share how we’re choosing to build on the investments we’ve made and pace them to last so that our efforts can be sustained for our generation and future generations.

Make no mistake when I say that we are making generational investments. Since 2017, we have invested a historic $19 billion and helped create more than 95,000 homes that are either open or on their way. This is more than can be said for any previous government in the history of this province.

We know that the housing crisis is affecting real people here and now. Budget 2026 continues our compassionate choice to work with communities to close encampments we know aren’t working and to keep building the safe and dignified homes and wraparound supports that we see are saving lives. We have shown that it is possible to think big and to start developing long-term solutions while we’re also tackling urgent issues by taking action to address today’s challenges, like encampments.

Our government, through B.C. Housing, is working with local governments and community partners through homeless encampment response teams, helping people sheltering outdoors to move inside. This program, called HEART, works to quickly assess the needs of people in encampments and to provide rapid access to the support services they need to exit homelessness. In addition, the homeless and encampment response temporary housing solutions program, called HEARTH, provides emergency housing and sheltering options and immediate coordinated supports.

On the ground, these two programs, the HEART and HEARTH programs, are empowering communities to expand their shelter and supportive housing capacity. There are now 15 local governments partnering with our government to put in place HEART and/or HEARTH programs. We started with support in places like Abbotsford, Kamloops, Nanaimo, Prince George, Victoria and Vancouver.

It was a HEARTH site in Victoria where a daughter reconnected with her father, Geoffrey. After living in supportive housing, Geoffrey was rebuilding his life with the help and support of the HEARTH program when his daughter reached out to a local non-profit to reconnect with him. Geoffrey’s daughter said: “This is the beginning of something beautiful. I have my dad back.”

[11:50 a.m.]

I’m happy to share that last February Geoffrey successfully moved into permanent housing and looks forward to having his daughter visit him there.

Stories like this are why communities across B.C. are asking for these programs. Earlier this month I was happy to announce that these partnerships have expanded

Geoffrey successfully moved into permanent housing and looks forward to having his daughter visit him there.

Stories like this are why communities across B.C. are asking for these programs. Earlier this month, I was happy to announce that these partnerships have expanded to include Cranbrook, New Westminster, Powell River, Smithers and Squamish.

I am proud to be working with the mayor of New Westminster, Patrick Johnstone, who said he is, and I quote, “grateful for the funding support provided through the province’s HEART and HEARTH program, which will support the renovation of the city’s 50-bed shelter and its transition to 24-7 operations, helping ensure people have access to safe, dignified spaces and essential supports when they need them.”

In Powell River, Mayor Ron Woznow has said that he is, and I quote again, “thankful for the opportunity to collaborate with B.C. Housing and for B.C. Housing’s investment in our community to create a safe and dignified space for vulnerable residents.”

Armand Hurford, mayor of the District of Squamish adds that they are “most grateful to be included in the HEART and HEARTH program to meet the urgent need of Squamish residents experiencing homelessness.” Mayor Hurford continues: “Housing is a fundamental right, and this program offers a chance for our unhoused residents to experience a sense of dignity, safety and belonging as an important step to stabilize their lives.” The mayor continues: “Our sincere thanks to the province of B.C. for its partnership and support.”

I could go on. Let me take you to Nanaimo, where the city has been a partner with our government to tackle homelessness in their community. One of the first cities to sign on to HEART and HEARTH, Nanaimo knows that supportive housing and the vital help it brings is the key to solving complex issues like substance use. That’s because Nanaimo has been working with us since the beginning.

In 2018, Jay and his partner moved into Nikao, a temporary supportive housing site in Nanaimo, built from shipping containers to house some of the 300-plus residents of an encampment called Discontent City, a large homeless encampment that formed in Nanaimo in 2018.

Jay says his biggest barrier to maintaining housing security was his substance use, which was made worse and harder to address by having no fixed address. Motivated by his goal of retaining custody of his child and supported by staff and peers, he says he became a man with a plan.

[The Speaker in the chair.]

At Nikao, he found community resources, support and encouragement that helped him secure employment and sobriety. He says finding a job helped him stay focused and reintegrate into the larger community.

Nine months after moving into Nikao, Jay and his partner moved to Riverbend, a subsidized townhouse complex in Nanaimo. Though the transition was daunting, Jay was able to gain further independence, and the visits with their child became longer, even overnight visits.

After two years at Riverbend, Jay and his partner separated, and he moved on to another Pacifica Housing subsidized home on his own.

In 2023, Jay further progressed towards housing independence and moved into an affordable market rental unit with another non-profit housing provider.

It took time, effort and the support of his community to turn his life around. But in his own words, Jay says he is in the best place he’s ever been. “With helping hands, I navigated back to the right path. There were a lot of helpful and considerate people surrounding me. I’m so blessed for that, because it wouldn’t have happened on my own, and I know that for a fact.”

[11:55 a.m.]

Noting the hour, I reserve my place to continue at the next sitting and move adjournment of debate.

Hon. Christine Boyle moved adjournment of debate.

Motion approved.

Noting the hour, I reserve my place, to continue at the next sitting, and move adjournment of the debate.

Hon. Christine Boyle moved adjournment of debate.

Motion approved.

Hon. Brenda Bailey moved adjournment of the House.

Motion approved.

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

The House adjourned at 11:55 a.m.