BC

While British Columbia's government promotes its first-ever Family Day as an opportunity to take a holiday at home, some unions are seizing the occasion to spread their own messages.

The government is encouraging families to create new memories and enjoy the best the province has to offer on Monday with what it has dubbed a "B.C. Staycation," playing on the idea of staying local for a vacation.

Premier Christy Clark said the holiday means British Columbians will get a break during the long stretch between New Year's and Easter.

"Whether you hit the slopes or take the kids on a hike, this weekend is about spending time together," she said Sunday in a release. "I hope everyone enjoys the extra day to spend time together with the people important to them."

Tourism Minister Pat Bell said the holiday will provide a significant boost to the province's tourism sector, noting there are many specials deals that will be on during the day, as well as free family-focused special events.

Child care workers, however, will be using the day to urge the government to implement a new, affordable daycare system.

Workers with the B.C. Government and Service Employees' Union have collected 3,000 signed postcards from families that will be sent to Victoria asking for publicly-funded care that only costs $10 a day.

"On B.C.'s first Family Day holiday, the government should recognize that young families are financially squeezed," said BCGEU President Darryl Walker in a release.