Exploring Trade and Drug Policy: Key Highlights from B.C.’s Legislative Question Period

B.C. Premier David Eby has criticized the Conservative Party, claiming they are following U.S. President Donald Trump’s lead, particularly regarding tariffs. Meanwhile, Conservatives are pushing for a public inquiry into the safe supply program for drugs.

During a recent question period in the B.C. legislature, Eby responded to Conservative MLA Gavin Dew’s comments. “It’s acquiescence to Donald Trump,” he said, referring to the Conservatives’ stance. Eby pointed out a tweet from MLA Heather Maahs, which suggested that government actions should align with Trump’s demands.

Dew challenged Eby’s words about tariffs, saying the government had reacted poorly to American pressure. He accused the NDP of creating a “fake hiring freeze” and failing to support businesses, which he claims has led to a lack of confidence in B.C.’s economy. He also criticized the cancellation of a promised $1,000 rebate for families.

Eby defended his government’s record, touting B.C.’s economy as the fastest-growing in Canada. He mentioned that foreign investment in the province has surged and that B.C. has low unemployment rates compared to the national average. “We’re focused on addressing tariffs and creating job opportunities for Canadians,” he added.

The session took a somber turn when Conservative MLA Á’a:líya Warbus called for an inquiry into B.C.’s safe supply program. She shared her personal loss, revealing that her brother had died from an overdose. Warbus expressed deep concern about the ongoing toxic drug crisis, which she stated has disproportionately affected Indigenous people within her community.

She called for the government to adopt better strategies from other countries and emphasized the need to acknowledge the lives lost. “Sixteen thousand, three hundred and twenty-eight families are grieving,” she noted, insisting that the numbers represent real lives, not just statistics.

Warbus raised doubts about the effectiveness of the safe supply program. As a mother, she expressed fears about drugs potentially reaching children, regardless of their form. “All drugs can have serious consequences,” she warned, urging caution in how they are managed.

In response, B.C. Health Minister Josie Osborne commented on efforts to manage the safe supply program better and ensure it reaches only those who need it. She acknowledged Warbus’s family’s tragedy, highlighting that the crisis has deeply affected Indigenous communities.

Both sides of the debate agree on the urgency of addressing the toxic drug crisis, but they differ on the methods. The conversation continues as B.C. grapples with this complex issue, striving to find effective solutions to support affected communities while ensuring safety and health for all.

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BC politics