Business Community Calls for Economic Plan
This morning, I stood alongside colleagues from across the B.C. business community as we publicly called on the province’s political leaders to deliver a clear plan that builds prosperity and fosters sustainable economic growth. By joining forces with organizations such as the GVBOT, BCC, CFIB, COFI, ICBA, MABC, and the business caucus, we sent a strong message: we are united and committed to working together to achieve real results for our members and all British Columbians.
To help voters make informed decisions on election day, we sent each party leader a survey, asking them to outline their plans for addressing the province's economic challenges. The questions are listed below. The responses will be published in the Vancouver Sun on October 5, and we will also share them directly with our members via email.
Our joint press release, including the survey questions and BCBC’s economic backgrounder shared with the media during today’s press conference, are available online.
B.C. Leaders Survey Questions
Productivity, Business Investment, and Wage Growth
The Bank of Canada is worried about Canada's “productivity emergency” and the lack of investment.
How would your government encourage more business investment, job creation, and higher wages in British Columbia?Cost of Doing Business
Business owners are concerned about the rising cost of doing business in British Columbia, due to rising prices, more regulations, and higher taxes.
How would you reduce the cost of doing business in the province?Spending and Deficits
Several credit agencies have outlined concerns around B.C.’s planned large deficits for the next three years, driving debt levels higher.
Does your government have a plan to balance the budget? And if so, how and when? How will you ensure provincial program spending provides the best value for the services British Columbians rely on?Climate and Energy Policy
How will your government balance environmental goals with keeping life affordable and the economy growing? What are your plans regarding the carbon tax?Resource Development
The health of British Columbia’s resource sectors (LNG, mining, forestry, agriculture) is crucial for sustaining families, creating jobs, and funding healthcare, education, and social services.
Will your government prioritize resource development in B.C.? If so, what specific actions will you take?Regulatory Improvement
Good governance includes implementing reasonable regulations that achieve desired outcomes for British Columbians without imposing excessive costs and burdens.
How will your government modernize regulations, speed up decision making, and improve regulatory outcomes?Crime and Safety
Statistics Canada’s data shows that the province’s violent crime rate has increased by 30 per cent since 2018, with many businesses across the province reporting higher levels of concern around employee/customer safety.
What policy changes would you prioritize to improve public safety in B.C. communities?Cost of Living
The rising cost of living, especially in housing, energy, and food, is a significant concern for many households in B.C.
If elected, how will your government address these rising costs and make life more affordable for British Columbians? Will you cut taxes as part of your strategy?Healthcare
B.C.'s healthcare system faces issues like long wait times, crowded emergency rooms, and a shortage of family doctors.
What changes would you implement to improve healthcare?Reconciliation
Reconciliation in British Columbia is crucial for building a more inclusive and respectful society, recognizing Indigenous rights, and ensuring opportunities for community growth and empowerment.
How will your government support economic reconciliation with Indigenous peoples in British Columbia?
