Doerkson promises action on healthcare, affordability and economic growth after election victory

The premier-designate also thanked outgoing Premier David Eby for his years of public service and acknowledged the efforts of candidates from all political parties during the campaign.

Doerkson said voters consistently raised concerns about affordability, healthcare, public safety and economic opportunity during the election campaign.

“They want a province that they can afford. They want an emergency room that is open at two a.m. when their child is sick. They want a main street they can walk down safely. They want good jobs, and they want their kids to be able to build a life here,” he said.

Among the new government’s first priorities will be addressing healthcare challenges across the province. Doerkson announced plans to establish an expert commission within the first 100 days of government focused on reducing wait times and improving emergency room access.

“Within the first 100 days, we’ll stand up the expert commission on keeping our emergency rooms open and cutting wait times,” he said. “That work starts with the doctors and the nurses on the front line, and it starts right away.”

The incoming government also plans to launch an independent review of provincial finances before tabling its first budget. On affordability, Doerkson said one of the first pieces of legislation introduced by his government will raise the basic personal tax exemption to $32,000.

He reiterated a campaign promise not to increase taxes and said his government intends to restore confidence in public institutions while delivering on its election commitments.

As the MLA for Cariboo-Chilcotin and a resident of Williams Lake, Doerkson used part of his address to speak directly to rural and northern communities.

“To rural and northern British Columbia, the Interior, the Peace, the Island and the Coast, it has been a long time since you’ve had a premier from where you live,” he said. “Under this government, you will never be an afterthought.”

His comments are likely to resonate in northern communities that have long called for greater attention to issues such as healthcare access, resource development and infrastructure investment.

Doerkson also highlighted economic development as a key focus for his administration, particularly as trade tensions and economic uncertainty continue to affect the province.

He said expanded resource development, increased LNG exports and attracting investment will play a major role in strengthening British Columbia’s economy and protecting jobs.

“Strong leadership for serious times. That’s what British Columbians voted for, and that is what they are going to get,” Doerkson said.

The premier-designate is expected to begin transition meetings with senior public servants in the coming days as preparations continue for his government to be sworn in. He says his team will be ready to “hit the ground running” on day one, with healthcare, affordability and economic growth at the top of the agenda.

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Email: Adam.Berls@pattisonmedia.com

by Adam Berls

Doerkson promises action on healthcare, affordability and economic growth after election victory

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