B.C. announces more cost-of-living supports

British Columbia Premier David Eby has announced another round of the BC Affordability Credit to help offset inflation costs as he marked 100 days at the province’s helm.

The province says around 85 per cent of British Columbians will receive a full or partial payment as early as April 5 through the Canada Revenue Agency, just like the funds given in January.

Eby says the next round will provide as much as $164 more per adult and $41 per child, up to $410 for a family with two children.

Eby, who was sworn in as B.C.’s 37th premier in November, made the announcement at a news conference marking his first 100 days in office, where he recapped his work so far and set goals for the future.

As the province prepares to table its new budget on Tuesday, Eby says his government will continue investing in health care, including mental health and addiction treatment, as well as housing and affordability.

Earlier this week, he launched a new 10-year plan to improve cancer care throughout B.C., saying his government was responding to increased demand as more people get diagnosed after putting off routine screening during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Eby has also introduced measures to bring more health workers to B.C., along with a refreshed housing plan and a safer communities action plan.

“The end of the first 100 days is, of course, not an end at all. It’s just the beginning,” he told the news conference Saturday. “Over the next 18 months, my team and I will work hard to make life better for you and for your families in ways that you will be able to see and feel in your lives and in your communities.”

The Canadian Press