This is an archive of news stories and research from the National Union of Public and General Employees. Please see our new site - https://nupge.ca - for the most current information. 


Throne Speech: Bad news for people and businesses that rely on quality public services

The provincial government continues to take credit for tax cuts that have failed to deliver the economic gains that were promised. The government also refuses to accept responsibility for the budget cuts and corresponding service cuts.

Vancouver (14 Feb. 2013) - British Columbia's speech from the throne laid out the meagre plans of the Liberal government.

There was no good news in the throne speech for public sector workers, and there was no good news for the people and businesses that rely on quality public services.

The B.C. Government and Service Employees' Union (BCGEU/NUPGE) is concerned there will be more budget cuts in next week’s provincial budget.

“Beyond investing in liquified natural gas development and infrastructure, which may deliver jobs and government revenue years from now, the Throne Speech failed to present any new ideas that would create benefits today,” says BCGEU President Darryl Walker.

The provincial government continues to take credit for tax cuts that have failed to deliver the economic gains that were promised. The government also refuses to accept responsibility for the budget cuts and corresponding service cuts.

“Our justice system and Community Living B.C. are both in crisis. However, neither was even mentioned in the Throne Speech. These are just two examples. BCGEU/NUPGE members know all too well that budget cuts have undermined the delivery of almost all public services,” says Walker.

These service cuts continue to have a direct negative impact on the economy. The most obvious example is the enormous permitting backlog in our natural resource sector. These permit backlogs delay economic activity, delay job creation and squander potential government revenue.

Next week's budget will provide more information on possible cuts to public services.

“These are challenging economic times. We need to explore new sources of potential revenue. We need to work to eliminate wasteful spending. We require new thinking and new approaches. There is a better way,” Walker says.

NUPGE

The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) is one of Canada's largest labour organizations with over 340,000 members. Our mission is to improve the lives of working families and to build a stronger Canada by ensuring our common wealth is used for the common good. NUPGE