The economic cost of CleanBC

Greenhouse gas emissions

Few in B.C. will argue that we need a plan to reduce our impact on our environment.

The government’s CleanBC Roadmap to 2030 outlines the province's trajectory for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to 40% below 2007 levels by 2030.

However, the government’s communication seems to be selectively transparent. While it proudly emphasizes the estimated GHG reductions and mentions generating approximately 18,000 direct and indirect jobs with a GDP increase of 19%, it meticulously avoids discussing the net economic cost, particularly job losses and GDP reduction stemming from a surging carbon tax and other climate policies.

This past month, a report on the economic cost of following CleanBC was largely ignored by the media or thought of as too extreme. Over the past two weeks, other reports from two of Canada’s large five banks have been released, echoing the same sentiment – following the CleanBC plan will end up costing British Columbians.

Why is this important? The government has glossed over significant economic repercussions forecasted in its own modelling, focusing instead on the projected achievements in GHG reductions.

A closer look at the CleanBC document reveals an alarming absence of comprehensive discussion on the broader economic implications. The report briefly mentions increased fossil fuel costs and measures to mitigate impacts but refrains from any further exploration of the policy’s economic consequences, leaving the readers with an incomplete and arguably deceptive representation of the modelling results.

According to the government’s own analysis, the implementation of CleanBC policies will curtail B.C.’s economic growth to historically low levels, resulting in a $28 billion smaller economy in 2030, thereby dialing back our province’s prosperity by over a decade.

Digging into the available modelling results posted on the Ministry of Environment’s website unveils a sobering reality. The CleanBC scenario projects a substantial slowdown in economic growth, especially from 2025-30, when numerous emission reduction measures come into full effect. This reduction paints a grim picture, setting the stage for the weakest economic growth in B.C.'s history.

This all sounds terrible but how does this reduced economic activity affect you?

With CleanBC policies in play, British Columbians faces a future of limited job opportunities and a significant decline in overall prosperity. In addition, government revenue from an active economy will be significantly restrained. That means spending on the services we all depend on, like health care, infrastructure, and social safety nets, are all at risk.

Sadly, the government has yet to openly acknowledge or discuss these consequences to their policy,

As the Shadow Minister for Environment and Climate Change Strategy, I advocate for transparency, accountability, and a balanced approach to climate policy. Dollars spent by this government must be associated with a tangible reduction in emissions, or they should not be spent under the auspices of “green”.

While addressing emissions is crucial, it is equally vital to evaluate and communicate the economic trade-offs comprehensively. The government’s reluctance to openly discuss the economic repercussions of CleanBC underscores a concerning lack of straightforwardness and warrants a reevaluation of the policy’s overall impact on the livelihoods of British Columbians.

B.C. can’t afford a misspend of its tax dollars and British Columbians deserve a transparent and honest account of the economic ramifications associated with the CleanBC policy agenda.

Is there a better way? There must be.

Looking at Norway, it has managed to ensure great prosperity for its citizens, while boasting the lowest emissions in the world. Surely there are programs and best practices that would show us the path to both.

Balancing environmental stewardship with economic prosperity is a complex task, and it necessitates an honest and open dialogue. The government must reconsider its approach, acknowledge the projected economic setbacks, and work collaboratively to establish a climate strategy that safeguards both our environment and the prosperity of British Columbia.

My question to you is this:

How much can you afford to spend or sacrifice on cleaner emissions?

I love hearing from you and read every email. Please email me at Re[email protected] or call the office at 250-712-3620.

Renee Merrifield is the BC United MLA for Kelowna-Mission.

This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet.

BC United's plan to deal with crime

Crime prevention plan

Over the summer, I have met with hundreds of you, and talked about your concerns.

In those coffee conversations, community gatherings, meetings, and even at the local grocery store, issues about safety and crime echoed loud and clear.

And there are things being done about it.

Recent news celebrated the fact that open drug use is no longer legal within 15 meters of playgrounds, skate parks or splash parks. This was something I and my BC United colleagues had asked for since decriminalization was brought in by the B.C. government in January.

The Kelowna Mayor Tom Dyas has initiated a task force on community crime and is trying to find practical solutions for the crime we see on our streets. This task force is a group of uniquely equipped concerned citizens, like former RCMP officers, retired justice employees and non-profit executive directors.

Last week was a bad one for crime on the streets of B.C., as we heard about three people who were stabbed at the Light Up Chinatown Festival (in Vancouver).

The system has failed us, and something has to change.

The premier announced a retired police chief, Bob Rich, has been hired to conduct a study to see why this happened. While we await yet another report to tell us what we already know, B.C. United, led by Kevin Falcon, released our action plan to restore public safety in B.C.

Falcon calls the plan, United for a Safer B.C. He made the following comment, which rings true because I have heard similar sentiments from the people I met with this summer.

“Under the NDP, the system is not working for anyone except criminals, while law-abiding citizens are no longer able to enjoy public parks and amenities or, in many cases, even walk in the streets without fear. Enough is enough. It is time for decisive change that balances compassion and consequences, and puts community safety ahead of a criminal’s right to re-offend. Together with our ‘Better is Possible’ mental health and addictions plan announced earlier this year, BC United’s public safety plan will deliver that change.”

So here are a few of the key initiatives found in the BC United Safer B.C. plan:

Aggressively fill the vacancies

The most resonant note in our plan is bolstering our local police force. This ambitious proposal seeks to recruit 500 new officers across the province. Breaking that down, for Kelowna, that translates to more trained eyes ensuring safety in our favourite spots: our parks, lakefront, and local businesses.

But it's not just about numbers. It’s about efficacy, dedication, and community understanding. We propose attractive incentives such as hiring bonuses and housing allowances to ensure we’re not just getting more police, but we’re attracting dedicated, community-minded individuals.

End the government’s decriminalization pilot

Our vision reflects a two-pronged approach to drugs—firmness coupled with empathy. We suggest moving away from the government’s broader decriminalization framework. The objective is to ensure beloved public spaces, from our City Park to the serene stretches of Waterfront Park, remain family-friendly and free from open drug use.

However, and this is crucial, there’s a deep vein of compassion running through this proposal. Instead of a simplistic jail-or-nothing approach, there's a strong emphasis on rehabilitation. The idea is to provide those battling addiction with pathways to healing and recovery. Such an approach not only addresses the immediate issue but ensures that, long term, we’re nurturing a community where individuals can overcome their battles and find their place constructively within our city's tapestry.

Craft a plan of accountability, while fostering community

Our plan resonates with the ethos that every action has consequences. Whether it's an unfortunate bike theft or an act of vandalism, these aren't mere statistics; they impact real lives, our lives. The drive is towards ensuring that no offence, however minor, slips through the cracks. The proposal emphasizes community service and other restorative actions that, in my belief, could further galvanize the bond of our Kelowna community.

In conclusion, the roadmap Falcon laid out is both comprehensive and attuned to local needs. While policies and plans will always have their mix of supporters and detractors, the overarching aim here is undeniable—a safer, united and thriving Kelowna.

The residents of Kelowna deserve to feel safe. And just like the Mayor’s Task Force on Crime Reduction, it’s time to try new initiatives.

My question to you is this:

What do you want the provincial government to do to restore public safety?

I love hearing from you and read every email. Please email me at [email protected] or call my office at 250-712-3620.

Renee Merrifield is the BC United MLA for Kelowna-Mission.

This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet.

B.C.'s 'new normal' in health care is not acceptable

Health care changes needed

Last week, B.C.’s health minister, Adrian Dix, alluded to the "new normal" in B.C. healthcare—packed emergency rooms, wait times spanning more than eight hours, a lack of primary care doctors, closed emergency rooms, reduced operating rooms and years on wait lists for surgeries.

Should we, as citizens, accept this as our new reality?

Imagine a mother in labour, directed away from her local hospital to a distant centre for maternity care, or a cancer patient, sent stateside because there’s no immediate availability of treatments here. These are not hypotheticals. They are the hard truths our neighbours in Kelowna and across the province are experiencing daily.

This isn't just about the inconvenience of waiting. The situation affects the core of our health. Timely surgeries, which are crucial in many cases, are being postponed due to operating rooms closing. Surgeons, who have trained for years to serve the community, find themselves unable to perform life-changing and life-saving surgeries. This is a travesty, not just for the doctors but for the countless patients who pin their hopes on these medical professionals.

The healthcare worker situation is equally dire. With a conspicuous lack of nursing staff, the burden on existing staff multiplies.

What are the repercussions of this so-called “new normal”? Burnout, reduced quality of care, and heightened risks to patient safety. As of now, staff are at the brink, their dedication pushed to its limits.

The situation is so bad, doctors are the ones sounding the alarm bell. Surgeons are writing letters, doctors are rallying in front of Surrey City Hall and the consensus is clear—the system, as it stands, is broken.

One pivotal question arises: If our healthcare model is so robust, why doesn't any other country emulate our system of care? The silence in response is telling. Which means, our system is not as good as we think it is. For the sake of Kelowna and all of BC, dramatic change is imperative.

Residents of the Okanagan and all of BC, deserve a health system that caters to their needs promptly and efficiently.

So, what can be done?

• Healthcare worker recruitment and retention—More training spaces, faster accreditation for foreign-trained workers, and a better work culture. Competitive compensation, appealing benefits, and an encouraging work environment can assure longevity and commitment.

• Funding overhaul—Instead of institutions receiving bulk funding, the dollars should follow the patient. This ensures that resources are distributed based on institutional efficiency and performance, leading to more personalized patient-centric care.

• Guaranteed wait times—No patient should be left in the lurch. Instituting a guaranteed maximum wait time means outcomes will improve.

• Primary care physicians for all—Every resident deserves a primary care physician. Expanding the network ensures early diagnosis and interventions, reducing the strain on emergency services.

• More training spaces for doctors and nurses—Expanding medical training facilities ensures a consistent supply of qualified professionals. This can fill existing voids and anticipate future demands.

• Physician assistants—Introducing physician assistants can significantly augment the capacity of our healthcare system. By handling routine diagnoses and minor procedures, they can complement the roles of primary physicians and specialists.

• Increase in operating room capacity—The current state of surgeries in B.C. is far from optimal. By boosting the number and capability of operating rooms, we can ensure that patients receive timely surgical interventions.

The "new normal" pitched by the health minister is not one we should accept. It's a wake-up call, signalling the urgent need for change. We've been presented with a choice, continue down this challenging path or to pave a new way forward.

For the sake of our families, neighbours, and the generations to come, we need changes. Our very lives depend on it.

My question to you this week is this:

What do you think should be changed about our healthcare system?

I love hearing from you, and I read every email. Please email me at [email protected] or call my office at 250-712-3620.

Renee Merrifield is the BC United MLA for Kelowna-Mission.

This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet.

MLA blames government for evacuees' problems

Support system SNAFUs