Throne Speech focuses on economic security to open province’s 43rd parliament

BC’s Lieutenant Governor Wendy Cocchia has delivered the throne speech, opening the spring session of the province’s 43rd Parliament.

Cocchia’s speech held a focus on the province’s plan to defend British Columbians from the economic impacts of US President Donald Trump’s presidency.

“We open this first session of British Columbia’s 43rd parliament at the most consequential time for our province since the second world war,” she said.

“In the face of an unprecedented and unjustified threat to our economy, British Columbians are joining with all Canadians to fight back. We’ve come together to support each other and stand up for our country, we are saying with one united voice, we will never be the 51st state, not now, not ever.”

Cocchia added the first four weeks of the presidency has brought our country on a “roller coaster ride,” and we need to be prepared for the ride to continue over the next four years.

“The historic bond between Canada and the United States has been strained in profound ways,” she continued.

“Trust has been broken, and will not easily be repaired. No matter what the future has in store, one thing has been made clear, we will not leave our future success to the whims of unpredictable forces from beyond our borders, or leave people here to fend for themselves. We are at a crossroads, the journey ahead will not be easy, but there’s nowhere better positioned to weather the storm, and come out the other side stronger than right here in British Columbia.”

Cocchia said these difficult times call for action that is both thoughtful and tough.

“British Columbia’s strategy has three components, strengthening and growing our economy, diversifying our trading relationships, and responding firmly and forcefully if required,” she said.

Cocchia said the government will be expediting an initial 18 major projects, including natural gas and clean energy, as well as critical mineral and mining projects, with 12 of those projects being majority First Nations owned.

“These projects are estimated to create more than 8,000 jobs, and support families, especially in northern and rural communities,” she said.

“Late last year, the green light was given to nine new clean energy projects, which will boost BC Hydro’s current electricity supply by eight per cent, enough to power 500,000 homes. This will generate between $5 billion and $6 billion in private capital spending throughout the province, creating 2,000 jobs during construction.”

Going beyond the natural resource sector, Cocchia said Budget 2025 will include tax credits to ensure the province remains “a destination of choice for filmmakers in Canada, and around the globe.” She said this is already attracting new production deals.

She added the province will also diversify the economy, and to whom we sell our products to.

“New trade missions will help BC business build strong economic partnerships around the world, we will also break down trade barriers within Canada,” she said.

Cocchia said BC will continue to treat addiction as a health issue, and will continue to add more nurses and family doctors, open more clinics and build more hospitals.

“Through this time of uncertainty, your government will be there to support you and your family,” she said.

“As proud British Columbians and Canadians, we are called on to meet this moment the same way we always do, by working together and looking out for each other. Together, we will build a stronger, more secure future, here in the best province, in the greatest country in the world. The true north strong and free.”