MLA Report: Solutions Proposed

By Carole James
There's been a rare sighting in the Victoria area this year: the completion of a fall session in the Legislature. For once, the government didn't break its own legislative calendar, and MLAs took their places in the Chamber to do the people's work.

Over the last few weeks, we've discussed and debated a wide range of important issues. They've included the urgent need to support those with developmental disabilities, metal theft, seniors care, the agricultural land reserve, post- secondary education, and family law.

In keeping with our direction as an Official Opposition to not simply oppose the government but to also propose solutions, I'd like to highlight a few areas to share with you the work we are doing.

This legislative session saw the government exposed for its chronic mismanagement at Community Living B.C. Adults with developmental disabilities are not receiving the supports they need to live as active members of the community.

Opposition members have proposed and are fighting for a moratorium on group home closures, and an external, independent review of Community Living B.C. We believe it's the best way to get answers as to what has gone so terribly wrong, and the best way to remedy this situation, so that CLBC doesn't continue to fail families.

I passionately believe that a society is judged by how it treats its most vulnerable, and I am ashamed at what I have seen over these last 10 years.  It's unforgivable that B.C. has the highest rate of child poverty in the country. It's shameful that we've had the most children living in poverty (and that means families living in poverty) for most of the last decade.

Combine that with the high rate of homelessness, and it's clear action is urgently needed. The Opposition has tabled legislation to require government to develop a poverty reduction plan with real measurable targets and report out to the public on achievements. We once again introduced legislation to put in place an independent seniors advocate in B.C. to ensure seniors and their families had real accountability when faced with concerns regarding care.

Some of those seniors are also our veterans, and I was proud to represent the community at the cenotaph and lay a wreath on Remembrance Day to show respect for them, and for their sacrifices for our country. Every November 11th, my visits to the  local branches of the Royal Canadian Legion to say thank you is always a highlight of the day for me.

I enjoyed participating in a wonderfully active discussion at Project Connect in the Conversation Café at Our Place. The session was a chance for those attending to question their elected representatives on any and all topics. Thanks to all the organizers and participants for the amazing work that goes into Project Connect.

Congratulations to the Bayanihan Community Centre on 10 years of exceptional service to our community. In the bayanihan spirit of volunteers working together towards common goals, Victoria's Filipino community has created a loving place of gathering and sharing. I was delighted to join in the celebration of the centre's 10th anniversary, and I wish them all the best for another 10 years, and then many more.

I was honoured to stand in the Legislature this fall and share with British Columbians the stories of some other great organizations that make our community a better place to live. They include the Umbrella Society, and the Victoria Car Share Co-op, which is now celebrating its 15th anniversary. 

Allow me this opportunity to wish everyone a wonderful relaxing time with family and friends over the holidays. Please don't forget to make time to give back to those in need.