Victoria, BC – Today, Sonia Furstenau, Leader of the BC Green Party, introduced the party’s comprehensive 2024 platform, aimed at promoting wellbeing and responsible governance. The platform, designed to provide essential services without plunging into significant deficits or debt, highlights the BC Greens’ focus on people, health, and community.
“When we focus on wellbeing, we’re saying that people, health, happiness, and sense of belonging are essential parts of a strong economy,” Furstenau stated. “We want to ensure everyone in BC has the chance to live a good life, no matter where they live or where they’re from.”
The BC Green Party’s platform is founded on four main pillars: thriving people, resilient communities, a flourishing natural world, and good governance. This holistic approach seeks to tackle social, economic, and environmental challenges by fostering long-term well-being for all British Columbians.
Key Initiatives for Thriving People and Resilient Communities:
The platform builds upon existing Green policies like preventive healthcare, evidence-based drug policy, and mental health support. New proposals include the enactment of an Indigenous Languages Act, increased financial support for youth aging out of care, and free vaccines. It also proposes boosting BC’s Arts Council budget and establishing career programs within the hospitality sector.
In terms of community resilience, the BC Greens pledge $650 million annually toward municipal infrastructure to support housing. They also plan to invest in inter-regional transit and childcare space expansion while reforming property taxes on homes valued above $3 million.
Environmental and Governance Reforms:
The party remains committed to addressing the climate crisis by dedicating $100 million annually for wildfire prevention and supporting renewable energy education. Key governance reforms include a ban on conversion therapy and a push for proportional voting systems. Furstenau also announced measures to streamline healthcare administration and introduce a stand-down period between public office and lobbying roles.
“We’re offering something entirely different – a government that puts people’s wellbeing as the framework for governing, not just economic metrics,” Furstenau emphasized, framing the 2024 platform as a blueprint for long-term solutions prioritizing the future of British Columbians.