The Green Party leader in British Columbia, Emily Lowan, criticized Premier David Eby’s threat of holding an early election if a bill to fast-track a major northern power project is not passed. Lowan called it a “cheap trick” that could leave residents of B.C. feeling discontent if it happens. Lowan emphasized that the current government already has a majority and there is no urgency to trigger an early election three years ahead of schedule.
During a news conference, Lowan, along with Green MLAs Rob Botterell and Jeremy Valeriote, highlighted their stance on Bill 31 and the ongoing cooperation between the Green Party and the NDP government. They indicated that the fate of Bill 31 will play a role in their decision-making process regarding their support for the government.
Lowan criticized Eby’s election threat as premature and motivated by a desire for unnecessary power. She stressed the importance of evaluating the Cooperation and Responsible Government Accord between the Greens and the NDP, with discussions planned for December.
Valeriote and Botterell, although they have supported Bill 31 to advance it to the committee stage for further scrutiny, expressed concerns with its current form. The NDP may need to rely on Speaker Raj Chouhan to break a potential tie vote on the bill.
Eby has stood firm on his decision to tie the fate of his government to the passage of Bill 31. The last early election in B.C. occurred in 2020, resulting in the NDP securing a significant majority. The annual review and renewal of the agreement between the Greens and the NDP will be crucial in determining their ongoing partnership.
Lowan also unveiled plans to introduce a more progressive tax system to generate additional revenue, emphasizing the need for fair taxation and urging the government to prioritize the interests of the working class.