B.C. Finance Minister Carole James said it’s good to see a number of provincial priorities reflected in the federal budget, though they still need to see the fine details.
“Gender equality, they did mention housing, the opioid crisis, and reconciliation with First Nations,” said James.
As far as housing and childcare are concerned, she said she’d like to see long-term strategies and funding.
She hopes the federal government’s rental housing focus opens partnership opportunities.
“I’m optimistic about an opportunity to partner with the federal government to bring those resources to British Columbia to match up, and most importantly to do what we need to do for British Columbians, which is get the best bang for our buck.”
She also said while the federal government has set aside millions of dollars for education as marijuana is legalized, she doesn’t see money on the table for extra costs.
There was a surprise as well – the government will also be tracking beneficial ownership, as well as B.C.
“Because if people are looking at avoiding paying taxes, often they’ll move to other provinces or other jurisdictions. So to have the federal government onboard on that is a very important step for us as well.”
Another surprise, James said, was the lack of money for transit.