MLA Steve Morisette Newsletter Jan. 17
Economic growth, protecting public services key focus of cabinet mandate
Cabinet ministers are being directed to focus on growing B.C.’s economy and protecting vital public services in the face of unprecedented threats from beyond Canada’s borders, including United States president-elect Donald Trump’s proposed tariffs. British Columbians have asked us to deliver for them in ways that make a real difference in their daily lives.
This includes:
- Creating good jobs with higher paycheques, and growing the economy to build the wealth we need to support strong public services like health care and education.
- Strengthening healthcare by hiring more front-line doctors and nurses
- Helping families with costs, including homes they can afford
- Making communities and neighbourhoods safer
As we do this work, the Premier has directed all ministries to review all existing programs to ensure programs remain relevant, are efficient, protect services, grow the economy and help keep costs low for British Columbians.
B.C. provides economic assessment of Trump’s tariff threat
Donald Trump’s threat of tariffs would have devastating effects on our economy, people and businesses. Premiers across the country are united in the need for Canada to respond with strength, including with targeted retaliatory tariffs. We are driving home the message about how integrated our two countries and our respective economies, and how tariffs like this only hurt families and working people on both sides of the border
In B.C. we are focused on a three-part response to the tariffs:
- Respond: we support the federal government’s proposals around responding with tariffs.
- Strengthen: we must use this opportunity to strengthen our provincial economy, through actions like speeding up permitting.
- Diversify: drive forward our work and the federal government’s work to diversify our trading partners.
B.C. supports forest-sector manufacturing
New support for forest-sector manufacturers throughout the province will create and protect jobs, strengthen local economies and diversify the range of fibre sources used to manufacture high-value, made-in-B.C. forest products. The BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund helps businesses scale up, increase productivity and create new jobs by getting the most value out of every tree we harvest. Nearly one-quarter of all wood-product manufacturers in B.C have applied to the program, demonstrating that producers are investing in the future of forestry.
B.C. reflects on another year fighting wildfires, building climate resiliency
In 2024, the BC Wildfire Service worked with people and communities to fight wildfires and build climate resiliency throughout B.C. People’s lives are increasingly being impacted by the effects of climate change and we must be proactive in how we prepare for climate-driven emergencies. We have applied lessons learned from 2023 wildfires by introducing flexible supports for evacuees, making it easier for people to receive those supports and improving preparedness tools.
280 million trees planted in 2024
More than 280 million trees were planted in B.C. forests in 2024 due to the province’s efforts. This year, 13 different native tree species were chosen in an effort to preserve natural ecosystems and prioritize key characteristics, such as resilience to climate change. Our government’s commitment to sustainable forests has seen us lead the country by planting more than two billion trees since 2017.
Province launches BC Timber Sales review
The B.C. government has launched a review of BC Timber Sales (BCTS) to ensure British Columbia’s forestry sector is continually evolving to overcome challenges and create a guideline for a stronger, more resilient future. Forestry in B.C. is in transition, and the people and communities who rely on our forests – who are bearing the brunt of ongoing challenges – want action now. Our work to get more value out of our forests is a top priority as we grow the B.C. wood-manufacturing sector, that’s why we are doubling the amount of BCTS volume that is dedicated to value-added manufacturers, from 10% to 20%. That’s about 1.1 million cubic metres in 2025 alone.
BOOSTING WILDFIRE READINESS 34 projects to equip and train wildfire teams receive Columbia Basin Trust support!
Regional District of Kootenay Boundary: Fruitvale, Montrose, Warfield and area
The Regional District of Kootenay Boundary is purchasing wildfire prevention and protection equipment, including hoses, nozzles, adapters and valves, for use in Fruitvale, Montrose, Warfield and surrounding areas.
“Increasing the capability for our firefighters to respond to wildland fires positively impacts life safety, property conservation and environmental conservation,” said Glen Gallamore, Deputy Fire Chief. “This equipment also provides a higher level of safety for our first responders, citizens and visitors.”
Since fall 2022, over 100 projects have received more than $4.8 million in Trust support. To learn more about the program and see previously approved projects, visit ourtrust.org/wildfirereadiness.
BuyBC helps more local farmers, processors succeed
British Columbians will experience a wider variety of local food and beverage options as more farmers and small businesses get support through Buy BC. Through the Buy BC Partnership Program, $2 million is available to support those eligible to participate in provincewide marketing projects to help boost awareness, demand, and sales of B.C. products. Buy BC is supporting the people who make up our province’s diverse agriculture and food industry, strengthening our local food systems and economies.
The Order of British Columbia, the Province’s top honour, celebrates outstanding achievement, excellence or distinction that has benefited the province or reached beyond its borders. Former or current residents of B.C. who have made extraordinary contributions are eligible. Posthumous nominations are not accepted.
The Medal of Good Citizenship recognizes individuals who have contributed significantly to their local communities on a volunteer basis. This prestigious honour recognizes acts of selflessness, generosity and contributions to the betterment of someone’s local community. Young people between 15 and 25, and posthumous nominations are welcome.
Nominations for both honours must reach the Honours and Awards Secretariat by Friday, April 4, 2025, to be considered next year.
Help recognize extraordinary people in British Columbia by nominating someone today.
To submit a nomination for the Order of British Columbia, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/celebrating-british- columbia/honours-and-awards/order-of-bc/submitting-nomination
To submit a nomination for the Medal of Good Citizenship, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/celebrating-british- columbia/honours-and-awards/medal-good-citizenship/submitting-nomination
You can book your own getaway to some of the world’s most beautiful areas – right here in BC. Reservations for May long weekend open this week for many BC Parks campgrounds that accept reservations. Start planning your spring camping adventures on the BC Parks website. You can reserve campsites four months in advance at 7am PST.
There are even more opportunities to enjoy our spectacular province with 60 new campsites in three BC parks. Check them out at Fintry Park near Kelowna, Rolley Lake Park near Mission, and China Beach Campground in Juan de Fuca Park near Victoria.
Make reservations online at Camping.BCParks.ca or by calling 1-800-689-9025
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 via phone at (250) 304-2783.
Helpful resources:
- Visit the BC Benefits Connector at gov.bc.ca/BCBenefitsConnector to find benefits and savings for 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 Service BC Contact Centre can help you find what you need. Representatives are available by phone or email.
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