More Action Needed to Address Rapidly Failing Economy, says James
VANCOUVER - Premier Campbell’s summits have not addressed the steep decline in B.C.’s economy and Mr. Campbell needs to start taking real action to help average families, NDP Leader Carole James said today.
Carole James “The job losses are growing, business is dropping rapidly and the government’s deficit is growing, yet the Campbell government has done little to help average families through the crunch,” said James.
“While people are worried about jobs and paying the monthly bills, the Campbell Liberals are imposing new taxes like the gas tax, wasting hundreds of millions of dollars on pet projects like a new retractable roof for B.C. Place, and hiding Olympic cost overruns.”
James said that Gordon Campbell should use his address to the Summit tomorrow to take action on three immediate priorities:
-Eliminate the carbon tax. A recession is the wrong time to raise taxes. This tax is unfair, it doesn’t address climate change, and it’s taking money out of people’s pockets and the economy at the worst possible time.
-Immediately invest in new housing infrastructure. Two hundred and fifty million dollars is sitting in a housing trust fund held by the government. Cities and towns across B.C. have projects ready to build. That money should be invested now to build new housing and put people to work.
- Improve student financial aid and cut student debt loads. With unemployment rising, many British Columbians need to retrain and learn new skills. While other governments are investing in education, the Campbell government is cutting back, jeopardizing B.C.’s future economy.
“Taking these steps to reduce taxes, create jobs, and help people train for the jobs of tomorrow is what the government should be doing at this time,” said James.
“Gordon Campbell needs to start taking people’s concerns seriously, take his focus off pet projects and new taxes, and take action on the things that matter.”
