Weekly newsletter from MLA Steve Morissette
By Contributor
Once again, tariffs are top of mind for many people across BC. Our government is committed to responding and defending B.C.’s jobs and services. We’re working with a broad coalition of industry experts to strengthen and diversify our economy. This includes our new task force on agriculture and food economy, which is working to create and implement solutions to support the industry, so farmers and food producers can better find new markets and British Columbians can access more nutritious and affordable food.
As Premier Eby continues to meet with his fellow Premiers, we are advocating for further measures to break down interprovincial trade barriers, so we can support each other as Canadians during times like these and into the future. While we don’t know what will happen on March 4 or any other day, we’re continuing to hope for the best while preparing for the worst.
While we are facing this uncertainty, the John Rustad BC Conservative official opposition spent their time in the Legislature this week attempting to trigger an election. I don’t know anyone concerned about the tariff threat who wants another election, because now is not the time for more chaos and uncertainty. British Columbians expect the people they elected to stand together to take these threats seriously and prepare accordingly. That’s exactly what your BC NDP government will continue to do. We’re all in this together, and we’re here for you in this.
‘From the littlest streams to the open ocean, protecting our watershed and wildlife is crucial. Spent time with representatives from the Pacific Salmon Foundation and BC First Nations Fisheries Council discussing creating healthy, sustainable, and naturally diverse populations of Pacific Salmon and other aquatic life for the benefit of our ecosystem and for generations to come.’
“Today is Pink Shirt Day, a day for all of us to celebrate kindness and work together against bullying… Premier’s, minister’s statements on Pink Shirt Day
BC Association of Child Development and Intervention provides child development and therapy services to families with children and youth with special needs. These services range from early intervention therapies for mobility or communication challenges, infant development programs to help parents during the first years of their child’s life, and child development programs to help kids get settled in preschool settings. I was able to connect with providers across the entire Kootenays. It was great to catch up with the Executive Director of Kootenay Family Place, Gent Harrison. Fantastic event!
New committee begins work to dismantle systemic racism
A new provincial committee has begun work to remove systemic barriers that make access to government programs and services challenging for racialized people in British Columbia.
This committee is the result of decades of advocacy by racialized communities to dismantle systemic racism in B.C. Systemic racism cannot be dismantled without us all working together.
Legislation helps expand parks, recognize Indigenous history
Legislation has been introduced to expand three existing provincial parks and rename two parks to recognize Indigenous connections. Renaming these parks to traditional Indigenous names recognizes significant cultural values and supports ongoing reconciliation with First Nations. Expanding B.C.’s parks and protected-areas system enhances protection of important ecological, recreational, cultural and historical values that make these places special.
Government provides update on pharmacy investigations, prescribed alternatives
The Province is taking action to prevent the diversion of prescribed opioids and hold bad actors accountable for putting people and communities at risk. In doing this work, we need to know that medications, like prescribed alternatives, are being used by the person they’re intended for. This will remove the risk of these medications from ending up in the hands of gangs and organized crime.
New support benefits B.C. tree fruit growers
In response to significant challenges faced by the tree fruit sector during the past four years, and the current threats to growers and food businesses from proposed U.S. tariffs, the Province is investing in farmers to help them recover from consecutive years of crop loss and market issues. We’re helping B.C. tree fruit farmers prepare for this season and many more harvests to come, with $10 million to help them ensure a resilient, sustainable future! We will continue working with the sector to further stabilize the industry, so British Columbians can depend on, and enjoy the fruit produced right here at home.
Stronger consumer protections coming for people in B.C.
Proposed amendments to consumer protection laws in B.C. will crack down on predatory sales practices and ensure people are better protected when making new purchases. The amendments were developed based on public and stakeholder engagement to ensure that B.C.’s most vulnerable consumers, including seniors, newcomers and people with lower incomes or disabilities, are aware of their rights and are protected. The Province will continue to work with Consumer Protection BC and stakeholders to support a smooth transition to the changes and provide businesses with reasonable time to adjust their practices to meet the new requirements.
Did you know? When you buy from local farmers, producers and processors, you’re supporting a sustainable, thriving B.C. economy. Visit https://buybc.gov.bc.ca/ to find out how you can support B.C.’s food and beverage sector today! We work best when we work together, and times like these show how great we are at coming together to support each other.
If you have any questions or concerns about a provincial issue or need assistance with a provincial body, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help. My office can be reached online at Steve.Morissette.MLA@leg.bc.ca or at (250) 304-2783.
Helpful resources:
- Visit the BC Benefits Connector at gov.bc.ca/BCBenefitsConnector to find benefits and savings for things like energy bills, transportation, education and training, and health care.
- Stay up to date with weather conditions and forecasts: Weather.gc.ca
- Find mental health and substance-use supports: Helpstartshere.gov.bc.ca
- The United Way BC 211 Racist Incident Helpline is available by dialing (toll-free) 1 833 457-5463 (1 833 HLP-LINE). Learn more at https://racistincidenthelpline.ca/
- The Service BC Contact Centre can help you find what you need. Representatives are available by phone or email.
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