1. family and parenting

Families First Agenda
for British Columbia
Table of Contents
MESSAGE FROM THE PREMIER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5
FA M I LY A F F O R D A B I L I T Y . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5
S U P P O R T I N G V U L N E R A B L E FA M I L I E S . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6
S A F E C O M M U N I T I E S , S T R O N G FA M I L I E S . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6
INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
9
T H E T H R E E P I L L A R S O F T H E FA M I L I E S F I R S T A G E N D A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
9
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
11
S U P P O R T I N G B R I T I S H C O L U M B I A’ S C H I L D R E N . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
16
S U P P O R T I N G B R I T I S H C O L U M B I A’ S S T U D E N T S . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
17
S U P P O R T I N G B R I T I S H C O L U M B I A’ S S E N I O R S . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
20
S U P P O R T I N G V U L N E R A B L E FA M I L I E S
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
23
H E L P I N G V U L N E R A B L E C H I L D R E N G E T A G O O D S TA R T . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
23
A D D R E S S I N G M E N TA L I L L N E S S A N D A D D I C T I O N . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
26
I M P R O V I N G H O U S I N G F O R LO W - I N C O M E FA M I L I E S A N D
B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A N S E X P E R I E N C I N G H O M E L E S S N E S S . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
27
H E L P I N G FA M I L I E S R I S E O U T O F P O V E R T Y . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
28
S U P P O R T I N G S E N I O R S AT R I S K . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
32
S A F E C O M M U N I T I E S , S T R O N G FA M I L I E S
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
37
POLICING AND COMMUNIT Y SAFET Y . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
37
P R O T E C T I N G FA M I L I E S . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
40
ROAD SAFET Y . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
41
CONCLUSION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
45
FA M I LY A F F O R D A B I L I T Y
Families are as diverse
as our great province,
and they are bound
together by love and by an
unshakeable commitment
to supporting each
other. Families make our
communities stronger.
Message from the Premier
On March 14, 2011, I was sworn in as your Premier with a key objective: to put
families first.
Our government has made significant progress on putting families first, and
we will do more. We know that every family wants to have the opportunity
to grow, prosper and live in a safe community. Our government is acting to
ensure families have the best ability to succeed with our focus on maintaining
British Columbia’s economic strength. A good-paying, stable and secure
job is one of the most important elements of a healthy, happy and strong
family. That is why I remain focussed on growing our economy, to grow these
opportunities for families in British Columbia.
We are acting with our Families First Agenda to support vulnerable families,
to make our communities safer and to make life more affordable for families.
The policies laid out in this plan are designed to help families in B.C. continue
to progress and thrive. The challenges that B.C. families face are linked to
the issues we face together as a society: keeping the cost of government
affordable; an aging population; affordable housing and services; protecting
vulnerable families and children; and ensuring safe streets and communities.
We are addressing these issues with fresh ideas and steadfast determination.
Like the B.C. Jobs Plan, we have built this plan on our commitment to a
balanced budget and prudent fiscal management.
THE HONOURABLE
CHRISTY CLARK
PREMIER OF
B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A
The Families First Agenda is the next step in our work to support families. It
highlights what we have accomplished to strengthen B.C. families, and shows
the actions we are taking to build on these initiatives as we move forward.
It also identifies important areas where we are looking for more feedback
from British Columbians, to ensure that good ideas are translated into
further actions that meet the needs of citizens. That is our approach to open
government — we are here to listen, to act on that input, and we will report
back with a summary of these consultations over the course of the fall. The
ideas generated from this engagement will inform future budget priorities.
Jobs, Families and Open Government are our government’s three priorities.
This Families First Agenda, built on the foundation of our Jobs Plan and with
opportunities for British Columbians to provide input, reflects all three of
those priorities.
I invite you to join us in implementing and expanding this agenda, with your
ideas and your commitment to a better British Columbia.
FA M I L I E S F I R S T A G E N D A F O R B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A
[ 3 ]
Our priorities as a
government must reflect
those of our citizens, and
family is at the centre of
each of our lives, no matter
how you define your family.
We all need a circle of
support to help us succeed.
Executive Summary
Jobs, Families and Open Government. Those are the three priorities of our
government. This agenda lays out what we have done, what we are doing and
areas where we intend to do more for families. It is an agenda that demonstrates
our commitment to put Families First.
The Families First Agenda for British Columbia is built on the foundation of
Canada Starts Here: The BC Jobs Plan and our commitment to fiscal responsibility
and a balanced budget by 2013/14. On that foundation the Families First Agenda
has three pillars:
»»
»»
»»
Family Affordability
Supporting Vulnerable Families
Safe Communities, Strong Families
FA M I LY A F F O R D A B I L I T Y
Being a fiscally responsible government is essential to ensuring B.C. thrives. Our
government’s work to keep taxes low and government spending under control
has brought substantial benefits to B.C. families. Since 2001, government has
reduced provincial personal income taxes for most taxpayers by 37 per cent or
more and taken steps so that an additional 325,000 people no longer pay any B.C.
income tax. In total, more than one million modest-income British Columbians pay
no provincial income tax at all. With the Families First Agenda, our government is:
»»
Introducing a student loan repayment assistance program (RAP).
RAP will provide better supports for people on low income having
trouble repaying students loans because of reduced income. It is
expected to assist approximately 20,000 borrowers annually.
»»
Launching a “one student/ one loan approach” in B.C. This approach
makes it easier to apply for and pay off student loans, with one set
of rules and forms, and a single point of contact for the loan.
»»
Implementing an Aboriginal Post-Secondary Education and
Training Policy Framework and Action Plan. This strategy
aims to close the educational gap for aboriginal learners.
Our government has done a lot to make life affordable in B.C., and we know that
raising a family is an exciting and, often, an expensive challenge. That is why we
are continuing to look at every possible means to help make life more affordable
for British Columbians. With input from citizens, we will continue to find new and
innovative ways to make life more affordable for B.C. families. We are also seeking
ideas about our StrongStart program, input on the best approaches to early
childhood development and child care, the best ways to save for education and
training, and how to help keep families, including seniors, active and healthy.
FA M I L I E S F I R S T A G E N D A F O R B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A
[ 5 ]
S U P P O R T I N G V U L N E R A B L E FA M I L I E S
Our duty to protect and care for B.C.’s most vulnerable citizens is one that our
government takes very seriously. We are committed to implementing supports
that help all British Columbians share in the benefits as our economy continues
to grow. With our Families First Agenda, we are introducing balanced reforms to
income assistance policies.
»» “Families First” policy changes will better harmonize our programs
and policies for families on income assistance with other jurisdictions
across Canada. These changes include increasing the school start-up
supplement, providing dental benefits for children of families on
hardship assistance, matching the family bonus top-up rate to the
federal amount and exempting lump-sum family bonus payments
less family bonus top-up amounts provided to the family.
»»
monthly earnings exemption for expected-to-work
A
clients will help them develop job skills, take advantage of
short-term or temporary work opportunities, and better
provide for their families while receiving assistance.
»»
T o help families avoid the cycle of income assistance
dependence, we have expanded the application
and intensity of work search requirements.
»»
odest asset increases and elimination of separate limits
M
on cash assets will help families transition more easily
from income assistance back to self-sufficiency.
»»
hanges to assistance for individuals with disabilities will
C
help them lead more independent lives and give their
families more opportunities to provide financial support
and stability though increases to trust fund limits.
»»
F or those who are able to work, earning exemptions have been
increased to $800 for individuals receiving disability assistance and
$1,600 for couples who are both receiving disability assistance,
with the flexibility to calculate earnings on an annual basis.
To help vulnerable families, our government is actively seeking feedback from
British Columbians, soliciting best ideas about how to help those living with
mental illness and addictions, how to plan for the future when a family member is
diagnosed with dementia, and how to best plan for end of life.
S A F E C O M M U N I T I E S , S T R O N G FA M I L I E S
Ensuring that families are protected and feel safe at home and in their
communities is an important part of putting families first in British Columbia. Our
government is committed to measures that ensure safe communities and protect
our sense of community. We have taken on crime and criminals through several
targeted initiatives such as our guns and gangs program and our approach to antihuman trafficking training, and we have seen tremendous success.
[ 6 ]
FA M I L I E S F I R S T A G E N D A F O R B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A
With our Families First Agenda, we are going further:
»»
Extending the Guns and Gangs Prevention Strategy with
a commitment of $66 million over three years.
»»
Expanding the number of Justice Access Centres in the province,
which provide front-end justice information and services such
as dispute resolution and legal advice to help solve family
and civil justice problems faster and more effectively.
»»
Plans to propose a new Community Safety Act that
will provide government the authority to respond to
unlawful activities that impact neighbours.
»»
»»
Moving forward with rapid implementation of the new Family Law Act.
Significant progress has
been made on measures
to support B.C. families.
Despite economic, social
and fiscal pressures
around the globe,
we are focused on
ensuring our province
thrives, and that British
Columbians have the
jobs and opportunities
they need to succeed.
Expanding the number of child-protection mediators,
who work with the families to establish the best
interests of children when families break up.
Our government is providing protection to families and vulnerable British
Columbians by implementing more measures to prevent crime and violence.
We will continue to look at ways to make the justice system more effective and
accessible, and are seeking input on what community safety means to British
Columbians, what would help citizens to feel safer in their communities, and ideas
to improve policing in the province.
FA M I L I E S F I R S T A G E N D A F O R B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A
[ 7 ]
Investing in the health
and well-being of families
is essential to the future
growth and success of
British Columbia.
Introduction
In times of global economic uncertainty, our government must do even more to
help families make ends meet, help the most vulnerable among us, and keep our
communities safe.
We have introduced focused measures to support families, grounded in our
commitment to fiscal responsibility. We have made targeted investments to keep
family life affordable and support those most in need. We are making changes to
existing programs as necessary, to ensure we meet the needs of British Columbians
and make a difference in their lives, while also maintaining our commitment to a
balanced budget.
And we will do more.
We will consult with British Columbians on key elements of the Families First
Agenda. The ideas generated will inform the decision-making process for our
budget next year and for future changes to programs and services as resources
become available.
T H E T H R E E P I L L A R S O F T H E FA M I L I E S F I R S T A G E N D A
Our government’s Families First Agenda is built on three pillars:
»»
»»
»»
Family Affordability
Supporting Vulnerable Families
Safe Communities, Strong Families
In this Families First Agenda for British Columbia, we expand on each of these
pillars, highlight the results of our work so far, and explain what our government
is and will be doing to build on these achievements. We are also reaching out to
British Columbians to discuss the issues that matter most to them and get advice
on how to help families get ahead.
By inviting British Columbians to participate in government decision-making,
we ensure we are operating with higher levels of efficiency, accountability and
transparency. Our commitment to open government is a commitment to listening
to people and acting on their input. That’s why we are using all the tools at our
disposal to reach out to B.C. families.
FA M I L I E S F I R S T A G E N D A F O R B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A
[ 9 ]
Since 2001, B.C. has
reduced provincial personal
income taxes for most
taxpayers by 37 per cent or
more, and an additional
325,000 people no longer
pay any B.C. income tax.
Family Affordability
Since 2001, B.C. has reduced provincial personal income taxes for most taxpayers
by 37 per cent or more, and an additional 325,000 people no longer pay any
B.C. income tax. In total, more than one million British Columbians pay no
provincial income tax, from a total of more than three million
British Columbians who file tax returns.
Our government has implemented measures so that individuals can earn at least
$19,000 before paying any provincial personal income tax at all, and B.C. currently
has the lowest provincial personal income taxes in Canada for individuals earning
up to $120,000 a year. When all taxes are considered, British Columbians have
among the lowest tax burdens in the country. (See graphic on page 12.)
Our government’s focus on keeping taxes low and government spending
under control is reinforced by the actions identified in this pillar of the Families
First Agenda. Raising a family is an exciting challenge. But for some families, it can
be difficult to tend to things that others take for granted — like packing a healthy
lunch each day. We are continuing to look at every possible means to help make
life more affordable for British Columbians.
P E R S O N A L I N C O M E TA X R E D U C T I O N S S I N C E 2 0 0 1
Total
Decrease
2001 vs 2012
Taxes
2001
Taxes
2012
SENIOR
COUPLE
($40,000)
$828
$0
-$828
(-100%)
SINGLE
INDIVIDUAL
($20,000)
$765
$41
-$724
(-95%)
SINGLE
INDIVIDUAL
($50,000)
$3,575
$2,139
-$1,436
(-40%)
FAMILY
OF 4
($70,000)
$4,339
$2,181
-$2,158
(-50%)
FA M I L I E S F I R S T A G E N D A F O R B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A
[ 11 ]
TA X E S I N B . C . – H O W W E M E A S U R E U P
2012 BREAKDOWN OF TOTAL BC TAX: $9,614
T WO-INCOME FAMILY OF 4
$90,000 INCOME
Provincial Income Tax: $3,085
Net Property Tax: $2,996
Total Provincial Tax
British Columbia
families generally
have one of the lowest
overall provincial tax
burdens in Canada,
including income
taxes, consumption
taxes, property taxes,
health care premiums
and payroll taxes.
Sales Tax: $1,602
SOURCE: MINISTRY OF
F I N A N C E , B U D G E T 2012
2012 COMPARISON OF PROVINCIAL TAXES BY PROVINCE
$17,796
$9,614
$9,755
BC
SK
$12,262
$12,368
$12,720
$12,765
$13,076
$13,501
PEI
NL
MB
NB
ON
NS
$7,482
Fuel Tax: $218
Net Carbon Tax: $177
Health Care Premiums: $1,536
AB
QC
2012 BREAKDOWN OF TOTAL BC TAX: $6,388
T WO-INCOME FAMILY OF 4
$60,000 INCOME
Net Property Tax: $2,026
Sales Tax: $1,262
Total Provincial Tax
Provincial Income Tax: $1,190
Fuel Tax: $218
Net Carbon Tax: $156
2012 COMPARISON OF PROVINCIAL TAXES BY PROVINCE
$9,584
$7,726
$7,918
$7,944
$8,033
$8,146
$8,278
NB
ON
NL
MB
PEI
NS
$6,388
$5,157
$3,949
Health Care Premiums: $1,536
AB
SK
BC
QC
2012 BREAKDOWN OF TOTAL BC TAX: $7,663
SINGLE INDIVIDUAL
$80,000 INCOME
Net Property Tax: $1,206
Total Provincial Tax
Provincial Income Tax: $3,964
Sales Tax: $1,368
Fuel Tax: $218
Net Carbon Tax: $139
Health Care Premiums: $768
2012 COMPARISON OF PROVINCIAL TAXES BY PROVINCE
$7,663
$7,713
BC
AB
$10,770
$10,906
NB
SK
2012 BREAKDOWN OF TOTAL BC TAX: $2,545
$12,230
$12,258
$12,351
NL
ON
PEI
$13,947
$14,053
NS
MB
$19,430
QC
SENIOR COUPLE
EQUAL PENSIONS
$30,000 INCOME
Provincial Income Tax: $0
Health Care Premiums: $0
Total Provincial Tax
Net Property Tax: $1,751
2012 COMPARISON OF PROVINCIAL TAXES BY PROVINCE
$2,363
$2,545
$2,662
BC
MB
$3,141
$3,187
$3,371
ON
SK
NL
$4,004
$4,048
$4,129
PEI
NS
NB
$4,443
Sales Tax: $749
Fuel Tax: $145
Net Carbon Tax: -$100
[ 1 2 ]
AB
QC
FA M I L I E S F I R S T A G E N D A F O R B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A
Over the past decade, our government has relieved the overall tax burden for
many families. For example, a senior couple with income of $40,000 has seen their
tax burden reduced to zero. A single individual with income of $20,000 now pays
95 per cent less. A family of four earning $70,000 now pays 50 per cent less income
tax than they did in 2001.
In recent weeks, our government has made bold decisions to support affordability.
We directed the British Columbia Utilities Commission to reduce BC Hydro’s rate
increases over three years by 50 per cent. And we are ending AirCare requirements
for passenger cars and trucks as of December 31, 2014.
To help low- and modest-income British Columbians with their costs, we provide
the B.C. Low Income Climate Action Tax Credit of up to $115.50 for adults and
$34.50 for children. These credits are paid quarterly each January, April, July and
October. For example, this means that a low- or modest-income family of four
can receive up to $300 per year in cash to help cover living expenses. We’ve
also introduced two new credits for families with children. With the new, nonrefundable children’s fitness and arts credits, families can claim up to $500 in
eligible fitness expenses and an additional $500 in eligible arts expenses per child.
This is an investment in the health and well-being of B.C. families, and supports the
development of new skills and interests that can last a lifetime.
The Home Owner Grant Program is a property tax assistance program offered by
our government that helps reduce the residential property tax British Columbians
pay each year on their principal residences. The grant provides a maximum
reduction in residential property taxes of $570. An additional grant of $275 —
for a total of $845 — is available if the homeowner is 65 or over, permanently
disabled, or an eligible veteran. The Northern and Rural Area Homeowner Benefit,
which took effect in 2011, increases the home owner grant by up to $200 for
home owners living outside of the Capital, Greater Vancouver and Fraser Valley
regional districts.
Property Tax Deferment is a low-interest loan program that assists qualifying B.C.
homeowners in paying the annual property taxes on their principal residences.
Our government provides property tax deferral options for qualified individuals,
including persons with a disability. The deferment programs are low-interest loan
programs that allow qualifying residents to defer all or part of their property taxes
until they sell or transfer ownership of their home, or it becomes part of an estate.
Application forms are available when property tax notices are issued each spring.
Our government has also implemented a number of supports that are targeted to
the special circumstances of living in various regions of British Columbia.
In the case of health care, many citizens pay insurance premiums to the Medical
Services Plan (MSP). However, there are built-in protections for lower-income
British Columbians to help ensure the program is income-sensitive.
FA M I L I E S F I R S T A G E N D A F O R B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A
[ 13 ]
Our government
is proud to have
implemented allday kindergarten
in September 2011,
extending the benefits
of the $327 million
program to 37,176
kindergarten students
across British Columbia.
To support this
expansion, we increased
annual funding by $129
million and invested an
additional $144 million
in capital funding for
713 new kindergarten
classrooms.
As of December 31, 2011, there were nearly one million B.C. residents subsidized
by the MSP premium assistance programs. More than 800,000 individuals and
families pay no MSP premiums at all, with the balance receiving partial subsidies.
MSP Premium Assistance was enhanced in January 2010, to ensure that MSP
rates in 2012 remain lower than they were in 2009 for those who receive
premium assistance.
In addition to keeping British Columbia a low-tax jurisdiction and providing
support to keep insurance premiums affordable, our government also provides
targeted tax relief in important areas that make a difference in the lives of citizens
and in the provincial economy.
The B.C. First-Time New Home Buyers’ Bonus is a new temporary measure designed
to provide relief during the transition period back to the Provincial Sales Tax (PST),
for families and individuals who are purchasing their first home and will assist the
residential construction industry by encouraging purchases of newly constructed
homes. The bonus is calculated as five per cent of the purchase price of the home
up to a maximum bonus of $10,000. The bonus is phased-out for individuals and
families with income over $150,000.
To assist B.C. families and the residential construction industry during the transition
to PST, the B.C. Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) New Housing Rebate threshold has
increased from $525,000 to $850,000 for eligible new housing, where the HST is
payable on or after April 1, 2012 and before April 1, 2013. The maximum rebate
available to purchasers has increased from $26,250 to $42,500.
And for workers and communities in B.C. that depend on the residential
recreational development industry as B.C. transitions from HST back to PST, our
government is providing a grant of up to $42,500 to those buying new residential
housing for use as a secondary or recreational residence. This applies in qualifying
areas of the province outside the Capital Regional District and the Greater
Vancouver Regional District.
An important part of affordability is convenience, and our government wants to
make life as convenient as possible for families across the province.
IN YOUR COMMUNIT Y
ONLINE
WHEN YOU NEED IT
servicebc.gov.bc.ca
gov.bc.ca
healthlinkbc.ca
drivebc.ca
env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/reserve
BRITISH COLUMBIA IS
S AV I N G FA M I L I E S T I M E
WHEN THEY NEED GOVERNMENT SERVICES.
[ 1 4 ]
FA M I L I E S F I R S T A G E N D A F O R B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A
We are working to co-locate services and community resources, and we are
providing support for initiatives including balanced school calendars with earlier/
later starts, before- and after-school care, and use of school facilities within and
outside of school hours.
Our government believes there will always be more we can do to help keep life
affordable for British Columbians, and we are looking for feedback from British
Columbians on what will help them in their daily lives. We know that there are
things we haven’t even thought of yet — ideas for targeted and affordable actions
to support affordability — and we want to unlock that knowledge and insight
from people around the province.
As we work to help keep family life affordable in British Columbia, our
government is seeking input from British Columbians on what measures
government can take to keep personal taxes as low as possible by keeping the
cost of government down.
Q U E S T I O N S FO R I N P U T F R O M B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A N S:
• Are there areas where government spends money that you think
could be spent more effectively or reduced to keep life affordable for
British Columbians?
• In 2012/13 the Province is projecting to spend almost $44 billion;
of which approximately 41 per cent is allocated to health care; 14 per
cent is allocated to elementary and secondary education; 12 per cent
is allocated to post-secondary education and 9 per cent is allocated
to social services (i.e. social assistance and child welfare). Do you think
government has allocated the right level of resources to each of these
priority areas?
S U P P O R T I N G B R I T I S H C O L U M B I A’ S C H I L D R E N
Our government is committed to children in this province, and we have followed
research showing that early interventions are the best way to ensure kids get
the best possible start in life. Research shows that a high-quality, play-based
kindergarten program has long-term benefits for children’s academic and social
skills and helps them to succeed in school and in life.
So our government is proud to have finished implementing all-day kindergarten in
September 2011, with an annual investment of $129 million. We also invested $144
million in capital funding for 713 new kindergarten classrooms, and in September
2011 there were a total of 37,176 students enrolled in kindergarten in British Columbia
A D VA N C I N G S U P P O R T S I N E A R LY C H I L D H O O D
Our government invests more than $1 billion every year on early learning and
childhood development initiatives, services and supports. We remain steadfast in
our commitment to children’s early years.
FA M I L I E S F I R S T A G E N D A F O R B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A
[ 15 ]
Strengthening supports for children is a key element of our government’s
commitment to families. By providing children and their families with support, we
can help ensure that they have every opportunity to build the future of their dreams.
The B.C. Healthy Kids Program helps low-income families with the costs of basic
dental care and prescription eyewear for their children. Eligible clients include
dependent children under 19 years of age who receive MSP premium assistance
from our government. These supports include:
»»
Automatic registration once a family is approved
for premium assistance by MSP;
»»
»»
»»
Access to preventable and restorative dental care;
Up to $1,400 of basic dental services every two years; and
Prescription eye glasses once a year.
Our StrongStart B.C. early learning programs also provide school-based early
learning services for adults and their young children, led by qualified early childhood
educators. Our government has received positive feedback on the quality and
impact of StrongStart, and we want to know if we can make it even better.
Q U E S T I O N S FO R I N P U T F R O M B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A N S:
• Have you attended a StrongStart centre? If so, do you have
suggestions on how we might improve this program?
• If you have attended a StrongStart centre, are there improvements
you would recommend to the facility or resources?
• Are you able to access a StrongStart centre near where you live?
• Is there sufficient capacity at the StrongStart centre you attend?
Quality child-care spaces are essential to providing children a head start and a
nurturing environment while parents are at work. In addition to introducing all-day
kindergarten, our government has increased the number of child-care spaces in
British Columbia by nearly 40 per cent since 2003/04, with more than 100,000
licensed child care spaces receiving ongoing government funding.
A key element of our families-focused agenda is improving supports for children
and their parents.
We want to build on our recent child-care forum by reaching out to British
Columbians across the province to hear about what measures may be available to
help make life more affordable for families with young children.
[ 1 6 ]
FA M I L I E S F I R S T A G E N D A F O R B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A
Q U E S T I O N S FO R I N P U T F R O M B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A N S:
• What improvements would you suggest to make our early
childhood development programs better meet your needs?
• What could we do better to provide you with the information you
need on early childhood development programs?
• What could we do to better provide you with information you need
on child-care options and availability?
• What ideas do you have to improve the range and choice for
parents caring for young children that would better meet the needs
of your family?
• What barriers could governments remove to make child care
more accessible?
S U P P O R T I N G B R I T I S H C O L U M B I A’ S S T U D E N T S
Supporting students is of utmost importance to help B.C. families and
communities thrive. As the next generation of innovators and skilled workers,
our students are our future.
This year, our
government’s budget for
education is $5.3 billion
– a 29-per-cent increase
since 2000/2001 even
during a period of
time when student
enrolment has dropped
by more than 63,000
students. Since 2001,
our government has
spent more than $2.1
billion to complete 93
new and replacement
schools, 150 additions,
27 renovations and 22
site acquisitions. And we
have spent more than
$790 million on school
seismic upgrades in 37
B.C. school districts.
This year, our government’s budget for education is $5.3 billion — a 29-percent increase since 2000/2001, even during a period of time when student
enrolment has dropped by more than 63,000 students. Since 2001, our
government has spent more than $2.1 billion to complete 93 new and
replacement schools, 150 additions, 27 renovations and 22 site acquisitions.
And we have spent more than $790 million on school seismic upgrades in 37
B.C. school districts.
Our government also supports students with efforts like the school fruit and
veggie program. This program provides B.C.-grown fresh fruit and vegetable
snacks to children in all grades and was recently expanded with an additional
$1-million investment.
In 2012/13, we are investing approximately $866 million in public and
independent schools, specifically to support students with special needs. Over
the next three years, an additional $195 million is being invested through the
Learning Improvement Fund to support public school students.
We are working to re-shape how we undertake education for students with
special needs and are considering a range of ideas, driven by the input of key
individuals and findings from other jurisdictions. These include consideration
of the “early intervention” practices model, which provides a window at the
beginning of schooling when students with special needs may enrol for a
period of time to focus on preparing for a successful entry into school.
FA M I L I E S F I R S T A G E N D A F O R B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A
[ 17 ]
B.C. has a ‘one student/
one loan’ approach
that supports students
by extending lead-time
for defaults, shortening
the amortization period
and matching federal
repayment assistance.
In 2011, we introduced the new Teachers Act as the basis for a teacher
regulation system that will be more accountable and transparent, and
increase public confidence and protection of children. A new Teachers’
Council is establishing standards for the conduct, competence and education
of applicants and certificate holders, as well as for approving teachereducation programs.
We have also opened up a significant consultation and engagement effort with
British Columbians to modernize our education system in ways that put students
at the centre of learning. Our education system is a good one — one of the best
in the world — and we are harnessing great ideas from the brightest British
Columbians to make our system more adaptable, nimble and modern.
Our goal is to improve our education system by ensuring it better reflects a
current, research-based understanding of the conditions for effective learning,
and for improving student and teacher engagement. Accessing, understanding
and linking student achievements to the quality of teaching will be an important
part of this work. We invite everyone to join the conversation underway right now
(www.bcedplan.ca). Our commitment to K-12 is a reflection of our support for the
successful transition of British Columbia students to post-secondary education.
Our government is investing more than $1.9 billion to support post-secondary
education this year. Thanks to taxpayers’ investments, students in British Columbia
pay just one-third of the actual costs of their education. Tuition in B.C. is the fourthlowest in Canada and increases are capped at two per cent annually. Over the past
10 years, we’ve boosted funding to operate our universities by 56 per cent and
our colleges and institutes by 25 per cent. Core Adult Basic Education has been
maintained as tuition-free by our government.
Our government wants to ensure that Aboriginal people have better opportunities
to access the post-secondary education and training they need to take advantage
of economic opportunities that exist in the province. In collaboration with
Aboriginal and post-secondary partners, we have developed an Aboriginal
Post-Secondary Education and Training Policy Framework and Action Plan. Our
government also offers the Aboriginal Training for Employment Program, providing
training and employment opportunities to non-EI-eligible and Aboriginal people
that need training for skilled work.
Through the Community Adult Literacy Program, we are building literacy capacity in
B.C. communities by supporting family, adult and Aboriginal literacy programs. Last
year, we provided over $2 million for programming to support almost 8,000 learners
in over 50 communities across all regions of the province. Programs are offered by
community organizations in partnership with public post-secondary institutions.
Our government also maintains a number of programs that are focused on
providing supports to students and their families in undertaking post-secondary
education. These include disability support programs and increased weekly
maximum student loan limits for students with dependent children.
[ 1 8 ]
FA M I L I E S F I R S T A G E N D A F O R B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A
B.C. has a ‘one student/one loan’ approach that supports students by extending
lead-time for defaults, shortening the amortization period and matching federal
repayment assistance.
English as a Second Language (ESL) programs provide language instruction
at basic, intermediate and advanced levels to people whose first language is
not English. ESL courses are available tuition-free at 17 public post-secondary
institutions throughout British Columbia for new immigrants, including
permanent residents and Canadian citizens. As students work hard to reach
their education goals, our government will continue to work on initiatives to
support their aspirations.
That’s why government is expanding our outreach initiatives for students to
ensure they have the information they need to make informed choices about
post-secondary studies. We are also reviewing our approach to student financial
assistance, and we want to hear your ideas about how we can best target the
resources we have to support both access to post-secondary education and
successful outcomes for students.
On July 1, we will introduce a student loan repayment assistance program for lowincome families and those with significant family obligations.
While the cost of post-secondary education in B.C. is the fourth-lowest in Canada,
we need to ensure it remains accessible, so that every British Columbian can
pursue their educational goals.
Right now, our government has a program to set aside $1,000 for every child born
since January 2007 for post-secondary education — the Children’s Education Fund.
We are looking for ideas on whether, going forward, this investment is the best
available vehicle to support British Columbia’s future students, or whether there
are other approaches we should be considering.
Q U E S T I O N S FO R I N P U T F R O M B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A N S:
• In your view, is the Children’s Education Fund the best use of money to
support post-secondary education for your child?
• Would you rather see the money invested in a RESP for your child?
• Would you rather the funding went toward student loan forgiveness?
• How could our government make it easier to save for education
and training?
S U P P O R T I N G B R I T I S H C O L U M B I A’ S S E N I O R S
Senior citizens offer us a wealth of wisdom and experience, sharing lessons from
the past, while helping to chart a path for the future of our province. Yet with age
comes vulnerability. That’s why our government is committed to doing all we can
to protect our senior citizens.
FA M I L I E S F I R S T A G E N D A F O R B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A
[ 19 ]
We know that seniors do better when they can remain in their own homes.
However, safety and accessibility are of utmost importance.
The B.C. Seniors’ Home Renovation Tax Credit is a new, refundable personal
income tax credit to assist with the cost of permanent home renovations that
provide individuals aged 65 and over with increased independence, allowing
them the flexibility to remain in their own homes longer.
The maximum credit is $1,000 annually, calculated as 10 per cent of eligible
expenditures. The credit is available to individuals who incur eligible
expenditures on or after April 1, 2012. The credit can be claimed by seniors,
whether they own their home or rent, and by individuals who share a home
with a senior relative.
Property Tax Deferment is a low-interest loan program that assists qualifying
homeowners in British Columbia in paying the annual property taxes on their
principal residences. Our government provides property tax deferral options
for qualified individuals, including homeowners over age 55. These deferment
programs are low-interest loan programs that allow qualifying residents to
defer all or part of their property taxes until they sell or transfer ownership of
their home, or it becomes part of an estate. Application forms are available
when property tax notices are issued in the spring.
The Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters (SAFER) program helps make rent affordable
for B.C. seniors with low to moderate incomes. SAFER provides monthly cash
payments to subsidize rent for eligible B.C. residents who are age 60 or over,
assisting them in securing and maintaining housing.
BC Housing provides SAFER subsidies to more than 15,000 senior households
renting apartments in the private market, including singles, couples and
people sharing a unit.
We are introducing further supports for aging in-home and out-of-home
care options for seniors aged 75 or older. This will include an expansion of the
Community Action for Seniors’ Independence Program to provide additional
non-medical home supports for older adults.
Investing in the health and well-being of families is essential to the future
growth and success of British Columbia. Our government continues to provide
record levels of funding to the health care system, and by 2013/14, the health
budget will have increased by more than 100 per cent since 2000/01, to over
$16 billion per year.
[ 2 0 ]
FA M I L I E S F I R S T A G E N D A F O R B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A
We have initiated a dialogue on health care (www.thinkhealthbc.ca) to raise
awareness of the four key areas where our government is making changes to
the health care system:
»»
»»
»»
»»
Keeping you and your family healthy;
Enhancing community services;
Improving hospital experiences, and
Improving efficiency.
For B.C.’s seniors, engaging in healthy lifestyles can prevent, minimize or even
reverse frailty and poor physical and mental health in old age.
We are taking action to encourage and influence healthy, active aging because
older adults are a valuable resource. Seniors make important contributions to their
families, their communities, the economy and the province.
Investing in the health
and well-being of
families is essential
to the future growth
and success of British
Columbia. Our
government continues
to provide record
levels of funding to the
health care system,
and by 2013/14, the
health budget will
have increased by
more than 100 per cent
since 2000/01, to over
$16 billion per year.
The Ministry of Health, through the Seniors’ Healthy Living Secretariat, supports
older British Columbians in leading active, independent lives by providing
tools that support healthy eating, physical activity, tobacco reduction, alcohol
awareness, social connection and fall prevention — all available online
(SeniorsBC.ca/activeaging).
The Ministry of Health also manages the age-friendly B.C. program. In an agefriendly community, seniors are able to enjoy good health and active social
participation. Age-friendly communities provide welcoming public spaces,
accessible transportation, affordable housing options, employment and volunteer
opportunities, as well as information and services that fit the needs of seniors.
Q U E S T I O N S FO R I N P U T F R O M B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A N S:
• What other tools and resources would be useful to encourage
B.C. seniors to stay healthy and active?
• What role can communities play in supporting healthy, active aging?
• Are there financial tools or programs that our government could
put in place to make housing more affordable for seniors?
FA M I L I E S F I R S T A G E N D A F O R B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A
[ 21 ]
Our duty to protect
and care for B.C.’s most
vulnerable citizens is one
that our government
takes very seriously.
Supporting
Vulnerable Families
Our duty to protect and care for B.C.’s most vulnerable citizens is one that our
government takes very seriously. It has driven our work to reduce poverty across
B.C., by providing low-income families with enhanced supports. We have helped
these families weather the recent recession by increasing opportunities to improve
their economic well-being.
There are still too many British Columbians who are not sharing in the prosperity
we are privileged to enjoy in this province. To strengthen these families we are
continuing to find innovative ways to fight poverty; support those with mental
health issues and additions; and address other problems that put B.C. families in a
vulnerable position. These initiatives reflect our commitment to ensuring all British
Columbians can benefit from our province’s growing economy.
H E L P I N G V U L N E R A B L E C H I L D R E N G E T A G O O D S TA R T
The earlier interventions are made to support vulnerable children, the better
their chances of maturing into successful citizens who can help our province
thrive. Providing such supports early in life also helps break the cycle of
generational poverty.
We have increased resources for parents to support health literacy and promote
evidence-based self-care, through programs including:
»»
Baby’s Best Chance – a resource website filled with up-to-date and
practical information, useful tools and resources for women, expectant
parents, and families with babies and toddlers up to three years of age.
»»
Toddler’s First Steps – a reference guide that provides parents
and caregivers of children between the ages of six months
and three years with the most up-to-date parenting
tips and child health and wellness information.
»»
Child Health Passport – a passport-sized booklet for
parents to use to record important health information
about their child, including height and weight, illnesses,
accidents, allergies, hospitalizations, and vaccinations.
The Healthy Families BC: Healthy Start program helps parents learn about the
best supports for their children’s overall health and how to give them a healthy
start on life. This initiative includes a Targeted Home Visitation program where
young, low-income, first-time mothers receive visits during their pregnancy from a
Public Health Nurse. These young women also receive intensive follow-up visits at
their home until the child is two years of age.
FA M I L I E S F I R S T A G E N D A F O R B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A
[ 23 ]
The Aboriginal Early Childhood Development Initiative focuses on supporting
comprehensive, integrated and culturally sustainable community-based programs
in Aboriginal communities.
Other programs provided by our government take a focused approach to
specific areas of need. For example, the FRIENDS program helps reduce the risk
of anxiety disorders by equipping children with tools to help them manage
difficult situations, now and later in life.
We are also fighting to prevent Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) by
promoting healthy practices during pregnancy, through public education and
awareness campaigns. Our Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Strategic Plan will
address problems with FASD in British Columbia, help map the work of those
involved in the prevention and intervention of FASD, and provide support for
those living with FASD.
Our government is also committed to reducing the number of children in
care in British Columbia. Since 2001, our government’s work to address the
circumstances that lead to kids being placed in care has led to a reduction of
more than 2,000 children and youth in care — approximately a 20-per-cent
decline. Our success is in part due to new care options such as the Extended
Family Program (EFP). The EFP provides support to children, families and
caregivers in situations where it is determined that the best way to meet the
needs of the child is for them to live with a relative or close family friend, when
their parents are temporarily unable to care for them.
The Ministry of Children and Family Development has made a number of
shifts in practice to ensure better outcomes for vulnerable children, youth
and families. As part of our government’s commitment to collaboration, more
families are being involved in family group conferencing, family case planning
conferences, family development responses and mediation to address child
welfare issues. In 2010/11, more than 5,500 families received support through
these collaborative processes — compared to 3,700 families that used these
processes in 2009/10.
Our government is also providing increased support for adoptions. In
collaboration with the adoption community, we are developing better
approaches, including an online application process for adoptive families,
improved practices to prepare children in care and recruited families for
adoption placements, an improved adoption recruitment and promotion
initiative, and measures to address backlogs.
A key priority of our government is the prevention of bullying in schools,
on our playgrounds, online, and in the workplace. Bullying is simply not
acceptable, for a wide variety of self-evident reasons.
[ 2 4 ]
FA M I L I E S F I R S T A G E N D A F O R B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A
Our government is implementing a new strategy to eliminate bullying in schools
called ERASE Bullying. This provincewide, 10-point plan focuses on prevention
and intervention and will deliver specialized training to over 15,000 educators and
community partners. ERASE Bullying will lay the basis for consistent policies and
practices in all 60 school districts. It is backed by strong community partnerships to
help prevent, identify and stop harmful behaviours.
ERASE (Expect Respect and a Safe Education) Bullying has several key components:
»»
An anonymous online reporting tool for students,
which will be available from mobile devices.
»»
Enhanced website run by the Ministry of Education,
including multimedia resources aimed at parents.
»»
»»
A five-year, multi-level training regime to train 15,000 educators and staff.
»»
Designation of one of the six provincial professional
development days to focus on anti-bullying.
»»
Provincial guidelines for safe schools and a
template for district level protocols.
»»
»»
»»
»»
Enhanced codes of conduct for school.
ERASE Bullying is
a 10-point plan
focusing on prevention
and intervention,
delivering specialized
training to over
15,000 educators and
community partners.
A designated safe schools co-ordinator in each school
district, who will monitor the web reporting site, have direct
communication with the Ministry of Education, and co-ordinate
multi-level threat assessment training for their district.
Development of a protocol between district and community partners.
Creation of a provincial advisory committee.
Embedding anti-bullying and threat risk assessment
training as part of pre-service training.
We have a strong legislative framework to prevent bullying in British Columbia. Our
government is ensuring that our new policies are action-oriented, proactive and
meaningful, and that they support the cultural shift to a society with zero tolerance
for bullying behaviours. ERASE Bullying will complement established programs.
Roots of Empathy is another anti-bullying classroom program for elementary
school students to promote respectful, kind behaviour, while addressing the
causes and impacts of aggressive behaviours such as bullying, harassment,
violence and intimidation. The program seeks to eliminate bullying in all
classrooms across the province.
Seeds of Empathy is a program for children aged three – five years that is delivered
in child-care centres or pre-school settings to foster the development of empathy,
prevent aggression and support the acquisition of early literacy/numeracy skills
and attitudes. This program helps children get a head start on healthy socialization,
making them better prepared to benefit from collaborating with classmates when
they enter school.
FA M I L I E S F I R S T A G E N D A F O R B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A
[ 25 ]
Providing top-quality
mental-health services
is an important priority
of our government. In
2011/12, the Ministry of
Health is projected to
spend approximately
$1.3 billion on
mental health and
substance use – an
increase of 58 per cent
since 2000/2001.
A D D R E S S I N G M E N TA L I L L N E S S A N D A D D I C T I O N
Providing top-quality mental-health services is an important priority for
our government. In 2011/12, the Ministry of Health is projected to spend
approximately $1.3 billion on mental health and substance use — an increase
of 58 per cent since 2000/2001. And our Ten-Year Plan to Address Mental Health
and Substance Use in B.C. is a road map to further improving mental health,
reducing problematic substance use and addressing mental illness for all British
Columbians through prevention, early intervention, treatment, harm reduction
and sustainability. We have also committed significant funding to building or
expanding mental health facilities in communities around British Columbia.
Mental illness can affect an entire family. As part of our efforts to ensure we are
providing supports to those affected by mental illness and as part of our response
to the report, Honouring Kaitlynne, Max and Cordon, by the Representative
on Children and Youth, government is consulting with families to identify and
implement new, more effective approaches to address mental illness.
Q U E S T I O N S FO R I N P U T F R O M B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A N S:
• How can those supporting a family member living with mental
illness or addictions be better assisted?
• For parents who are living with a mental illness, can they be better
supported in effective parenting?
• Are there mechanisms available for early detection and intervention?
• Can there be improved outreach to rural and remote areas?
• Are there better ways to utilize non-governmental agency services?
• Are there better ideas for supportive housing for those with severe
mental illness combined with addictions?
Additionally, WorkSafe BC is developing Occupational Health and Safety Policy to
help eliminate bullying and harassment, along with an online toolkit. This is part of
changes we are making to the Workers Compensation Act that include expanding
the definition of violence and expansion of workers’ compensation to include
diagnosed mental disorders caused by significant work-related stressors, including
bullying and harassment.
I M P R O V I N G H O U S I N G F O R L O W - I N C O M E FA M I L I E S A N D
BRITISH COLUMBIANS EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS
Finding affordable housing is one of the key issues facing families today — not
having the right kind of shelter can weaken families and prevent people from
achieving their goals. That’s why we have been working to help low-income
families and British Columbians experiencing homelessness to find housing that
works for them.
[ 2 6 ]
FA M I L I E S F I R S T A G E N D A F O R B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A
Housing Matters B.C. addresses a full range of housing needs — from
homelessness to homeownership — with a focus on helping those in greatest
need, including the homeless, people struggling with mental illness or
addictions, women leaving abusive relationships, low-income families, seniors,
and people living with disabilities. These citizens are provided with priority access
to provincial housing programs.
This year, more than 95,000 B.C. households will benefit from provincial social
housing programs and services.
British Columbia’s housing programs encompass a wide range of needs. There
are subsidized rental units, as well as rent supplements that help keep privatemarket rentals affordable for low-income working families and seniors. Emergency
shelters, outreach and supportive housing help the homeless get off the street, as
well as stabilize and rebuild their lives.
At the same time, transitional housing helped 16,000 women start a new life
last year after leaving an abusive relationship. There are also assisted-living
and accessible apartments that help seniors and people living with disabilities
remain independent, as well as housing that meets the cultural needs of
Aboriginal people.
British Columbia’s housing programs are wide ranging. They are helping ensure
there are affordable housing options for low-income working families and seniors.
More can always be done and new ideas are always needed. We want to hear from
families across B.C. on new ideas to increase affordable housing accessibility.
We know that such openness leads to innovation. Our government is very proud
of the work that was undertaken through the Homelessness Intervention Project
(HIP). HIP took an approach that considered each person compassionately as an
individual, and then connected him or her with the services they needed most.
This project took a “housing first” approach, but also ensured that people had the
skills and resources to remain in housing and to lead healthier, more independent
lives. More than 3,914 people were housed through this project and the majority
remain stably housed. The results of this innovative pilot are informing much of the
work currently under way by our government.
H E L P I N G FA M I L I E S R I S E O U T O F P O V E R T Y
Despite British Columbia’s prosperity, many families still live in poverty. It is
essential that we help these families improve their economic situation, to ensure
they can join in B.C.’s prosperity and help our province flourish even further.
One example of how we are applying learning from the Homelessness
Intervention Project is the Community Poverty Reduction Strategy, a partnership
with the Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM). The strategy was
announced in April, 2012 and is rooted in the understanding that communities
and families across British Columbia can have specific needs depending on where
they live.
FA M I L I E S F I R S T A G E N D A F O R B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A
[ 27 ]
On June 18, 2012,
Statistics Canada
released statistics on
the low income cut-off
(LICO) after-tax rates
for 2010. The statistics
show that the number
of children living
below the LICO in B.C.
decreased from 11.8
per cent in 2009 to 10.5
per cent — the secondlowest percentage since
1981. Since 2003, B.C.’s
child poverty rate has
dropped by 45 per cent.
The Community Poverty Reduction Strategy will start in seven communities
across B.C. The first communities, as recommend by the UBCM, are Surrey, New
Westminster, Port Hardy, Kamloops, Cranbrook, Stewart, and Prince George. These
regional pilots will establish measurable targets for each community to help lift
local families out of poverty, and will inform the program as government considers
expanding it to more B.C. communities. What we learn from the Community
Poverty Reduction Strategy will also inform our work on provincewide programs
and initiatives to support vulnerable children and address poverty.
We will also build upon our successes with the Community Action Initiative
for empowering communities to identify solutions to help target poverty and
homelessness. The Community Action Initiative was created in 2008 and, since
2010, has been providing grants to British Columbia community groups to address
mental health and substances-use issues through innovative, cross-sectoral
partnerships. This work includes significant involvement by Aboriginal interests,
with 25 to 30 per cent of all granting funds provided by the Initiative targeted to
projects led by Aboriginal mandated organizations.
Our government is also making important changes to provincial
employment programs. Through the new Employment Program of BC, launched
in April 2012, unemployed British Columbians will receive the services and
supports they need to find and keep a job. This employment program is available
through 85 WorkBC Employment Services Centres and 114 satellite offices across
the province. Each centre provides a full suite of employment programs, ensuring
quick and easy access through a single door, including specialized populations and
people living in rural and remote areas. No British Columbians will be left behind
with the new Employment Program of B.C.
This effort is supported by initiatives that provide more strategic and
targeted supports. For example, we are continuing with our work, as promised in
our October 2011 Speech from the Throne, to develop an off-reserve Aboriginal
action plan to fight poverty in First Nations. We are working in partnership with
First Nations, the federal government and municipal governments on this initiative.
Our Youth Transition Initiatives encourage employment and provide training
targeted at youth who are at risk of experiencing poor outcomes. Our recentlylaunched Family and Youth Partnership pilot project will also benefit up to 300
young families and youth in government care by helping them find employment
and build healthier futures.
Over the past year, our government has worked hard to develop new initiatives to
support families who are struggling to overcome the challenges before them.
In order to better protect consumers and families living in poverty, we will propose
legislative changes to regulate businesses that provide debt-consolidation services
and regulate advance fees paid. This will help ensure that low-income families with
household debt are not negatively impacting their credit rating.
[ 2 8 ]
FA M I L I E S F I R S T A G E N D A F O R B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A
British Columbia has a solid income and disability assistance system that provides
temporary help to those who can work, and longer-term support to those who,
through disability or other barriers, have a more difficult time working or who
cannot work.
Although we believe our income-assistance system is one of the best in Canada,
we also know that there is always room for improvement. We have listened to
concerns from clients, families and advocates. We agree that many of those
concerns are valid, and we have made changes to our income-assistance policies
to address many of the concerns we have heard about.
We believe that people who can work want to be self-sufficient and contribute
to their communities. This policy reform will provide the supports people need
to get back into the workforce, while helping to improve financial outcomes for
vulnerable individuals and families.
British Columbia has
a solid income and
disability assistance
system that provides
temporary help to those
who can work, and
longer-term support
to those who, through
disability or other
barriers, have a more
difficult time working
or who cannot work.
We are also implementing “Families First” policy changes to harmonize our
programs and policies for families on income assistance here in B.C. with other
jurisdictions across Canada:
»»
We are increasing the school start-up supplement to help
families manage the extra costs associated with a child’s
schooling. Families will now receive $100 for every child
aged five-11, and $175 for every child 12 and over.
•
Families on hardship assistance will also receive the
school start-up supplement for each of their children.
»»
The same dental benefits will be provided for children of
families on hardship assistance as are provided to incomeassistance families, so parents can take children as young
as six months old in for regular dental check-ups.
»»
By exempting the Child Tax Benefit and Universal Child Care Benefit
for hardship-assistance recipients, as we do for income-assistance
families, we can help families on hardship access all available benefits.
»»
Matching the family bonus top-up rate to the federal amount by
increasing the maximum top-up for the family bonus to $176.50,
and continuing to match future increases, for families on income
assistance means more money in families’ pockets every month.
»»
For families who are expecting a lump-sum Family Bonus
refund, we will temporarily provide a transition top-up while
they wait for their refund, then exempt the lump-sum Family
Bonus refund once it’s received, less the transition topup in the month they receive their lump-sum payment. All
families will be better off in this arrangement than before.
»»
Exempting income tax refunds means that individuals and families on
income assistance will be able to keep their full income tax refund.
FA M I L I E S F I R S T A G E N D A F O R B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A
[ 29 ]
We believe that people
who can work want
to be self-sufficient
and contribute to their
communities. This policy
reform will provide the
supports people need
to get back into the
workforce, while helping
to improve financial
outcomes for vulnerable
individuals and families.
For parents without status who are fleeing an abusive relationship, but are
prohibited from leaving the country with their children, we will be providing
assistance that will ensure the well-being of these parents and their children are
protected. We are also making other changes to our income assistance system
designed to assist people maximize tax credits and support them in their efforts to
find work, be self-sufficient and contribute to their communities.
There are millions of dollars in unclaimed federal tax benefits for British
Columbians because people don’t file their taxes. That’s why we are introducing
mandatory income tax filing and relieving the claw back on income tax
benefits, to ensure families are getting all the tax credits that have been
provided for them. Exemptions will be in place to ensure that clients are not
forced to file in circumstances that would put them at risk from a violent
partner or any other circumstance:
»»
For individuals on disability assistance, this will help to ensure
they are accessing all the federal benefits, including Registered
Disabilities Savings Plan (RDSPs), for which they are eligible.
•
»»
A Community Benefit Fund is being established to help people
living with disabilities to access RDSPs and file their taxes.
For all families on income or disability assistance, filing
taxes will ensure they are getting all the tax credits and
refunds that are available to them without clawbacks.
For people who are able to work, income assistance is intended to be a temporary
measure to help people who find themselves, for whatever reason, temporarily out
of work.
We are instituting a modest $200 monthly earnings exemption for the families
of all expected-to-work clients. This exemption gives employable individuals
a better opportunity to develop their job skills, take advantage of short-term
or temporary work opportunities of up to $200 monthly, and better provide
for their families while receiving assistance. To help families avoid the cycle
of income-assistance dependency, we are expanding the application and
intensity of work search requirements:
[ 3 0 ]
»»
For new applicants, we are extending the work search to five weeks to
strengthen income assistance applicants’ efforts to find employment.
»»
Removing time limits and replacing them with more support for
employment-planning efforts for those on income assistance
to ensure they’re maximizing their work search efforts.
»»
Requiring immediate needs client participation in a three-week
work search while they are receiving hardship assistance.
FA M I L I E S F I R S T A G E N D A F O R B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A
»»
Enhancing the employment planning regime to better support return
to work so people can transition off income assistance more easily.
»»
All the exemptions for work search requirements will continue to
be in place to ensure these efforts help those able to work, while
protecting those who require relief from this requirement, including
those fleeing an abusive situation and other vulnerable circumstances.
As part of these reforms, we are also making modest asset increases and
eliminating a separate limit on cash assets. For families who want to regain their
independence, these changes will make for an easier transition from income
assistance back to self-sufficiency:
»»
»»
»»
A single person can now retain assets up to $2,000.
»»
For couples and families receiving disability assistance,
they can retain up to $10,000 in assets.
»»
Expected-to-work clients will be able to
keep a car valued up to $10,000.
Couples or families will able to keep up to $4,000 in assets.
For single disability assistance clients, their
asset limit is increasing to $5,000.
Our government is also initiating changes to our assistance for individuals with
disabilities, helping them lead more independent lives and giving their families
more opportunities to provide financial support and stability.
We are also enhancing earnings exemptions for individuals receiving disability
assistance, so that those who are able to work are supported and encouraged to
find employment without compromising their benefits:
»»
Individuals can earn up to $800 per month
and still receive their full benefits.
»»
A couple that are both collecting disability assistance can earn
up to $1,600 per month without impacting their benefits.
»»
To address the range of circumstances persons with disabilities
may face, including when people have episodic conditions,
we are adding an option to declare earnings on an annual
basis rather than monthly, so an individual can maximize
their earnings during times when they are feeling healthy
and able to work, to a total yearly exemption of $9,600.
»»
We are waiving the waiting period for claiming earnings
exemptions for former disability-assistance clients
who find they have to reapply for assistance.
FA M I L I E S F I R S T A G E N D A F O R B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A
[ 31 ]
Trust account limits are also increasing. People on disability assistance can now
put up to $200,000 — double the previous amount — in a non-discretionary trust
account. This is the same amount that individuals can keep in their Registered
Disability Savings Plan (RDSP).
How these individuals can use this money is also changing. People on
disability assistance have always been able to use trust funds to pay unlimited
costs for specific purposes, like devices and medical aids, caregiver services,
education and training, and maintenance or renovations to their private
residence. Now, individuals will be able to access up to $8,000 per year from
their trust account for any other cost related to promoting independence —
nearly double the previous annual allowance — and make their own choices
about how best to use these funds.
For individuals with developmental disabilities and their families, we are
developing new approaches to day and employment programs, supporting
innovations, and improving transition planning for youth with developmental
disabilities moving out of the school system and from Ministry of Children and
Family Development to Community Living BC. We will increase employmentrelated training through school supports, to make sure that as these
individuals leave high school, they have options that equal their aspirations for
independent living.
S U P P O R T I N G S E N I O R S AT R I S K
As British Columbians age, more supports and services are available to help ensure
life continues to be enjoyable and fulfilling. Aging also holds inherent challenges,
and low-income seniors can be particularly vulnerable because they often have
fixed incomes. It is important that we provide support to low-income seniors so
that they may live with dignity throughout every stage of life.
Given the significant contributions seniors make to our province, it is important
that we continually look to improve their well-being. Our government is
implementing a comprehensive action plan to ensure a more accessible,
transparent and accountable approach to seniors’ care. This work is wide-reaching,
including the establishment of a seniors’ advocate, improved access to information
about facilities and assessments, development of a provincial elder abuse
prevention plan, expansion of non-medical home support from five communities
to up to 65 over three years, and after-hours access to palliative tele-nursing.
These initiatives are being built upon the input we receive from engagement with
seniors, to make sure our programs are serving their needs, and to get ideas about
how we may broaden our work even further through targeted measures as we
move forward. Our government is preparing a Provincial Dementia Action Plan
that will demonstrate our continued commitment to people with dementia and
their families, which underlines the significance of dementia as a contributor to
frailty and the loss of independence, particularly for seniors.
[ 3 2 ]
FA M I L I E S F I R S T A G E N D A F O R B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A
The action plan outlines provincewide priorities for improved dementia care,
through health system and service redesign work currently underway in British
Columbia. It is intended to support collaborative action over the next two years by
individuals, health professionals, health authorities, and community organizations
to achieve quality care and support for people with dementia, from prevention
through to end of life.
Q U E S T I O N S FO R I N P U T F R O M B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A N S:
• Has someone in your family been diagnosed with dementia? How
are you planning for the future with this disease? What is the most
important piece of information or advice that has helped you and your
family plan appropriately?
Aging holds inherent
challenges, and lowincome seniors can be
particularly vulnerable
because they often
have fixed incomes. It
is important that we
provide support to
low-income seniors so
that they may live with
dignity throughout
every stage of life.
• Approximately 60,000 to 70,000 British Columbians have dementia and
its prevalence is increasing. Our communities will increasingly need to
accommodate people with dementia and become age-friendly. What
has your community done and what more could be done to support
care in the community?
• Research shows that people with dementia who have a caregiver are
more likely to be cared for at home. Caregivers can be family or friends
and need our support. How do we better recognize caregivers and the
role they play in caring for vulnerable seniors?
Protecting vulnerable seniors from elder abuse is our commitment in Healthy
Minds, Healthy People: A Ten-Year Plan to Address Mental Health and Substance
Use in British Columbia and the Seniors Action Plan. Public and stakeholder
consultations were undertaken in spring 2012 as the basis for development of a
province-wide plan that our government plans to release in December 2012.
Our government is providing funding beginning in 2012/13 for the operation and
expansion of Community Response Networks across the province. These networks
will work at a community level to facilitate prevention and education activities
with local stakeholders to end the abuse, neglect and self-neglect of adults in B.C.
The then- Ministry of Health Services released the Provincial Framework for Endof-Life Care in British Columbia in 2006, to serve as guiding policy for the planning
and delivery of services for people at the end-of-life and with objectives including:
»»
Increasing options for persons at the end of life to
remain at home for as long as possible.
»»
Supporting individuals, caregivers and providers with information
and education about end-of-life care, including the use of advance
care planning and the legal tools available to support that planning.
FA M I L I E S F I R S T A G E N D A F O R B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A
[ 33 ]
Our government is
providing funding
beginning in 2012/13
for the operation
and expansion of
community response
networks across
the province. These
networks will work at
a community level to
facilitate prevention
and education activities
with local stakeholders
toward an end to abuse,
neglect and self-neglect
of adults in B.C.
Since 2006, a number of initiatives have been implemented to achieve these
objectives, including:
»»
B.C. palliative benefits programs that support people
of all ages who wish to die at home by providing
enhanced financial coverage for services, medications
and supplies for clients in the last six months of life.
»»
Practice support for family physicians to increase their
competence and confidence in providing end of life care.
»»
A Palliative Care Incentive Fee code that allows general practitioners
to provide better end-of-life care through easier collaboration with
community services, including home care and nursing support.
»»
After-hours nursing supports through HealthLink B.C. for
patients and their families providing palliative care at home.
»»
In addition to home-based community support supports, we
will increase the number of publicly funded hospice beds.
»»
New legislation expanding the options for adults who want to plan
for a time when they are unable to make their own health-care
decisions. Individuals can appoint a loved one to make health-care
decisions on their behalf, or they can give advance instructions
directly to their health-care provider. My Voice: Expressing My Wishes
Advance Care Planning Guide was released in March 2012 to provide
patients and families an easy-to-follow guide to express their own
intentions and preferences with respect to end-of-life care.
»»
Education resources for health care providers on health-care
consent representation agreements and advance directives.
In 2003, 56 per cent of deaths in B.C. occurred in hospitals. In 2010, 46 per cent of
deaths occurred in hospital.
Q U E S T I O N S FO R I N P U T F R O M B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A N S:
• Advance care planning is all about talking to your loved ones and
health care providers so that they know the kinds of health care
treatments you wish to receive, or not, if you become incapable of
expressing your own wishes. These are difficult conversations. How
would you start this conversation with those closest to you? Check out
our resources and guide (www.seniorsbc.ca/legal/healthdecisions).
• How could we better provide you with the information you need on end
of life care options?
[ 3 4 ]
FA M I L I E S F I R S T A G E N D A F O R B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A
FA M I L I E S F I R S T A G E N D A F O R B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A
[ 35 ]
While our crime rate is
falling, we must continue
to provide protection to
families and vulnerable
British Columbians by
implementing measures to
prevent crime and violence.
Safe Communities,
Strong Families
Ensuring that families are protected and feel safe is an important part of
putting families first in our province. When families face violence, they
lose the sense of community that helps people thrive together. While our
crime rate is falling, we must continue to provide protection to families and
vulnerable British Columbians by implementing measures to prevent crime
and violence.
CRIME RATE
CASE LOAD
FUNDING
2004
2006/07
2005/06
12,050 INCIDENTS PER
100,000 RESIDENTS
103,795 NEW COURT
CASES ENTERING THE
PROVINCIAL COURT SYSTEM
$785 MILLION WAS
SPENT ON B.C. CRIMINAL
JUSTICE EXPENDITURES
2010
2010/11
2010/11
8,404 INCIDENTS PER
100,000 RESIDENTS
100,952 NEW COURT
CASES ENTERING THE
PROVINCIAL COURT SYSTEM
$945 MILLION WAS
SPENT ON B.C. CRIMINAL
JUSTICE EXPENDITURES
THAT’S A
REDUCTION OF
THAT’S A
REDUCTION OF
30%
2.7%
THAT’S AN
INCREASE OF
20%
POLICING AND COMMUNIT Y SAFET Y
Our government has been very aggressive in implementing initiatives that help
make British Columbia communities safer and more secure through policing and
community intervention. Our measures have been effective because they are
targeted to the specific challenges we face here in British Columbia.
We have introduced new authorities for the government to set legally binding
policing standards, as a step to ensure police are accountable to the communities
they serve. This helps ensure our government and our police are working together
to best meet public need.
FA M I L I E S F I R S T A G E N D A F O R B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A
[ 37 ]
The Guns and Gangs Prevention Strategy increased the number of police
officers in B.C. and introduced new laws to combat gang activity across B.C.
communities. Funding for the strategy was extended for the next three years as
part of Budget 2012.
The Anti-Human-Trafficking Training Curriculum is Canada’s first comprehensive
approach to enhancing the skills of first responders and service providers in
identifying trafficked persons and providing them with protection, support and
appropriate referrals.
B.C.’s bait car program is the largest in the world. Designed to catch auto thieves,
this program has reduced auto theft in B.C. by 71 per cent over the past eight
years, helping keep these potentially dangerous drivers off the road.
We have pursued an aggressive legislative agenda that includes the establishment
of the civil forfeiture legislation and office to ensure that offenders cannot profit
from unlawful activity. We also introduced legislative changes to require licensing
of scrap metal dealers and recyclers to help combat metal theft.
We also have championed new approaches and innovation in the safety and
security of our communities.
Our 10-year-old partnership with the federal government to establish the Drug
Treatment Court of Vancouver has reduced drug-related reoffending rates for its
graduates by more than half, contributing to safer communities across B.C.
The Strategic Training Initiative in Community Supervision is an independently
validated approach being introduced provincewide as an effective way for
Probation Officers to improve the behaviour of offenders. It will help stop
people convicted of a crime from making the same mistake twice, and help
make families safer in B.C.
British Columbia is also the first province in Canada to require criminal record
checks of individuals working with vulnerable adults, including individuals
at risk of being abused or exploited because of their age, frailty, or mental or
physical disability.
A new administrative process for traffic ticket dispute reform is being developed
to provide more efficient access for drivers and other road users, free up court
resources for other urgent matters, and will remove the incentive to dispute a
ticket in hopes that it will be cancelled due to delays.
Our government has launched a provincewide engagement with the public,
police and other justice partners to develop a strategic plan for policing that sets
out goals, targets, and performance standards to improve the safety and security
of B.C. families. This includes independent oversight of the police, as well as
identifying ways to strengthen the tools of the Integrated Gang Task Force.
[ 3 8 ]
FA M I L I E S F I R S T A G E N D A F O R B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A
Even with the crime rate in B.C. at a 30-year low, British Columbians can sometimes
feel unsafe in their communities. This engagement process promises to provide
new ideas, fresh thinking and innovative approaches, and includes online dialogue
sessions to discuss safety and security issues. Comments and ideas are welcome,
and participation in online dialogue sessions ([email protected]).
Q U E S T I O N S FO R I N P U T F R O M B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A N S:
• Have you worked on a local crime prevention project, and can
you share what you have learned?
• What does community safety mean to you?
British Columbia is
the first province in
Canada to require
criminal record checks
of individuals working
with vulnerable adults,
including individuals
at risk of being
abused or exploited
because of their age,
frailty, or mental or
physical disability.
• What would help you to feel safer in your community?
This engagement effort complements a key review of the justice system, launched
by our government in February 2012. We appointed Geoffrey Cowper, Q.C. to
conduct this review and identify solutions that can help make the system more
transparent, efficient and timely. We have also asked the Legal Services Society to
conduct a thorough examination of B.C.’s legal-aid system and to look for ways to
achieve efficiencies within legal aid and throughout the justice system.
We are confident that British Columbians are providing their best ideas through
these consultation and engagement efforts, and our government looks forward
to implementing these ideas. Our work together will build on recent initiatives like
the establishment of the Civilian Led Independent Investigation Office, headed by
Richard Rosenthal, which is to be up and running by summer 2012. It will conduct
independent investigations into incidents relating to death or serious harm
involving police in B.C. and, in so doing, ensure that our police are doing the best
job possible to serve and protect B.C. families.
As part of our legislative agenda, we are also planning further new initiatives.
The Criminal Asset Management Act brought forward during the most recent
sitting of the legislature is providing a framework for the management of forfeited
assets in criminal proceedings. This will be another tool to remove the financial
incentives to engage in criminal activities and advances our government’s efforts
to ensure that crime does not pay.
Our government is considering new legislation to provide the provincial
government the authority to respond when unlawful activities impact neighbours.
The Community Safety Act would improve community safety by targeting and, if
necessary, shutting down residential and commercial buildings. This would help
restrict the use of property for specified illegal activities such as possession or
trafficking of illegal drugs.
FA M I L I E S F I R S T A G E N D A F O R B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A
[ 39 ]
Safety and security
has also been a
focus of our capital
investment priorities.
Our government is
making the largest
capital investment
in B.C. Corrections’
history to expand adult
corrections capacity
and keep British
Columbians safe.
P R O T E C T I N G FA M I L I E S
Ensuring that families are safe and secure is essential to the health and success of
our province. While strangers sometimes commit crimes against families, there
are also cases of crime and violence within families that must be addressed. That
is why we have implemented policies to protect families both within and without
the family unit.
Earlier this year, we introduced the new Provincial Office of Domestic Violence,
with funding for eight new full-time staff members. Over the fall of 2012, the
office will complete a full scoping and analysis of the current range, geographical
distribution and functioning of domestic violence policies, programs and services.
By the end of the year, B.C. will have a three-year rolling action plan to ensure
continuous improvement to strengthen the effectiveness of policies, programs
and services.
The Family Maintenance and Enforcement Program will monitor and enforce
maintenance orders and agreements for either child support or spousal support, to
ensure that families that have been divided by various circumstances still uphold
their duty to support each other.
The new Family Law Act structures the law so that court is not the implied starting
point to resolve family disputes. Parents will be encouraged to work together
to resolve their differences and use family mediation or other assistance where
appropriate, taking into account their circumstances. The act gives parents
different ways to resolve family conflict without having to go to court unless
necessary, and our government is working hard to ensure it is implemented
without delay. Before implementation, government will continue to look at
processes that help families stay out of courts. The most recent example of this is
the expansion of the family Notice to Mediate program to all of British Columbia,
allowing one party to require the other to attend mediation in family matters by
filing a notice.
Our government has also introduced changes to the Adult Guardianship Act and a
new Will Estates and Succession Act. When they are brought into force, these two
laws will modernize guardianship law, enabling seniors to have greater control
over their future and their property.
Our government is also leading federal/provincial/territorial analysis on the reform
of the Criminal Code to better address victimization of the elderly.
Our Inter-Regional At Risk Youth Program links at-risk youth to the supports they
need to avoid victimization or exploitation by drug dealers or gang members. By
intervening at a young age, this program seeks to reduce the overall crime levels
and keep children out of gangs.
The Prevent Shaken Baby Syndrome B.C. Program is working to prevent shaken
baby syndrome through a provincewide, community-based educational program
to raise awareness in parents about this issue.
[ 4 0 ]
FA M I L I E S F I R S T A G E N D A F O R B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A
We are also committed to bringing justice system services closer to British
Columbians, and making them as accessible as possible.
There are currently two Justice Access Centres in the province, in Vancouver
and Nanaimo, and we are planning to expand these centres to other British
Columbia communities. The centres promote greater access to civil and family
justice solutions. They provide front-end, accessible justice information and
services, including assessment, information, dispute resolution, legal advice,
referral, and other services, to help solve family and civil justice problems faster
and more effectively.
In order to address costs, complexity and court delays, we are working to create a
Civil Dispute Tribunal with jurisdiction over strata disputes and small claims. This
will provide an alternative for people who need a resolution to their dispute but do
not want to go to court.
As in other areas, we are committed to strategic, targeted initiatives that promise
positive outcomes.
We want to better protect consumers, and so our government will propose
legislative changes to regulate businesses that provide debt-consolidation services
and regulate advance fees paid. This will help protect low-income families and
work to break the cycle of poverty.
We have also launched an initiative to distribute Amber Alerts to all government
staff emails and will challenge the private sector to build similar functionality into
their corporate email systems.
Safety and security has also been a focus of our capital investment priorities. Our
government is making the largest capital investment in B.C. Corrections’ history,
to expand adult corrections capacity and keep British Columbians safe. This
includes a new Okanagan Correctional Centre, the expansion of the Surrey PreTrial Centre and the Alouette Centre for Women.
ROAD SAFETY
British Columbia has an expansive highway system that connects families
across every region of the province. Ensuring these highways are as safe as
possible is essential.
Our government has introduced new fines and penalties for drivers using handheld devices and texting while driving to ensure drivers are focusing on the road.
In September 2010, we introduced the toughest provincial impaired driving
penalties in Canada. These penalties contributed to a 40-per-cent drop in alcoholrelated traffic fatalities in their first year, compared to the average over the previous
five years. This year, we introduced changes to address the court’s concerns about
providing failing drivers with a way to meaningfully challenge the roadside breathtest results, and we are confident these will successfully re-establish our life-saving
impaired driving law.
FA M I L I E S F I R S T A G E N D A F O R B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A
[ 41 ]
Alcohol Related Motor Vehicle Fatalities
A N N U A L A L C O H O L R E L AT E D M V FATA L I T I E S
SINCE THE INTRODUCTION OF THE IRP*
160
OCT. 2010 – FEB. 2012 (17 MONTHS)
155
160
120
44% Decrease
in Fatalities**
(71 Lives Saved)
80
89
40
0
Ten Year Average
2000 – 2010
Five Year Average
2005 – 2010
Fatalities***
Oct. 2010 – Feb. 2012
* IRP - Immediate Roadside Prohibition
** Compared to the five year average
*** Preliminary data
Source: RCMP and Traffic Accident Systems (TAS)
We have also expanded the Vehicle Impoundment Program to include vehicle
impoundments for excessive speed.
Our government has an expansive and aggressive plan for even further
improvements to road safety. We are developing a Road Safety Systems Strategy
with the goal of streamlining the ticketing process, reducing collisions, improving
client services, providing more efficient access to justice, and improving public
safety. The initiative would include transforming traffic ticket dispute processes,
reducing reliance on the courts, enabling online payment, facilitating electronic
traffic ticketing at roadside, enhancing driver history data, replacing existing paperbased processes and replacing end-of-life mainframe systems with a consolidated
data warehouse.
We are also developing Phase 2 of our Motorcycle Safety Initiative, which will
include consultation and implementation of new initiatives related to training and
graduated licensing for new motorcycle riders. Restricting power for new riders is
a key component of the proposed graduated licensing program. These changes
would follow more recent revisions that require motorcycle riders to wear helmets
that meet industry safety standards, require passengers to place their feet on
footpegs or floorboards, and improve visibility and enforcement for police.
We are also considering redesigning the current Driver Improvement Program
to ensure that penalties and interventions are risk-based and focused on
behavioural change and improved road safety. These changes would be driven
by best practices that integrate monetary penalties with driver education and
progressive driver improvement actions/interventions focused primarily on the
highest risk drivers.
[ 4 2 ]
FA M I L I E S F I R S T A G E N D A F O R B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A
Impaired Driving Cases Approved to Court
1,000
I M PA C T O N I M PA I R E D D R I V I N G
CO U R T W O R K LOA D I N B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A
Source: Criminal Justice Branch, Ministry of Justice
800
New IRP Law
Implemented
600
400
B.C. Supreme
Court Decision
200
0
Jan
2010
Jan
2011
Jan March
2012 2012
To respond to the
needs of B.C.’s aging
population, we will
develop a proactive
strategy to connect
with seniors and
their families,
develop partnerships
with community
organizations and
local governments
and support medical
practitioners in
identifying at-risk
drivers and help them
to “retire from driving”.
We will build upon road safety changes introduced in 2009, which required drivers
to “slow down and move over” when passing emergency workers parked on the
side of a road. Proposed changes would include expanding the criteria to protect
all roadside workers who are authorized to use a flashing amber rotary light
on their vehicles. Examples include highway maintenance, construction, utility
workers, surveying and animal control.
To respond to the needs of B.C.’s aging population, we will develop a proactive
strategy to connect with seniors and their families, develop partnerships
with community organizations and local governments and support medical
practitioners in identifying at-risk drivers and help them “retire from driving”. Part
of this strategy includes a regional service delivery model for access to specialized
testing such as DriveABLE.
FA M I L I E S F I R S T A G E N D A F O R B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A
[ 43 ]
We invite British Columbians
to join us as we work
together to meet the needs
and aspirations of families
across the province.
Conclusion
The Families First Agenda for B.C. is a reflection of our government’s commitment
to families in this province. It details a comprehensive picture of investments we
are making to support families, and to help them succeed. It also provides the
basis for engagement over the coming months, as we reach out to citizens to
ensure we are investing taxpayer dollars in ways that best meet families’ needs.
We invite British Columbians to join us as we work together to meet the needs and
aspirations of families across the province. Your ideas will form the basics of our
ongoing work to put families first.
FA M I L I E S F I R S T A G E N D A F O R B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A
[ 45 ]
For more information please visit our website.
www.gov.bc.ca