B.C. Green Party calls for immediate support for renters and increased income caps for RAP and SAFER programs
VICTORIA, B.C. – The B.C. Green Party is calling for immediate action to address the housing affordability crisis. According to the Canadian Rental Housing Index, over a quarter of a million renter households are currently spending over 30% of their household income on rent and utilities. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the party is advocating for significant changes to existing rental assistance programs and the implementation of vacancy control in the form of a new Rental Rate Protection program.
Furstenau to run for re-election in riding of Victoria-Beacon Hill
VICTORIA, B.C. – In a move that marks both a return to roots and a step forward in her political journey, Sonia Furstenau has announced her candidacy for the upcoming election in the riding of Victoria-Beacon Hill. This decision comes as a natural evolution for the seasoned political leader, whose deep family ties and legacy in Victoria have been a foundational force in her remarkable career.
“After a lot of reflection, I have made the decision that I will run in Victoria-Beacon Hill in the upcoming election. This is a decision that I do not take lightly, but it is the right decision for me and my family, as we have begun the process of relocating back to Victoria.”
Furstenau responds to banning of phones in schools
VICTORIA, B.C. - Sonia Furstenau, Leader of the BC Greens and MLA for Cowichan Valley has issued the following statement in response to today’s announcement on cell phone restrictions in schools and accountability for social media companies:
"Today's announcement is a step forward in protecting our children in schools. However, a successful 'no phones' policy requires more than just bans.
Furstenau: Lack of leadership is worsening the toxic drug emergency
VICTORIA, B.C. - Today, BC Coroners Service reported that 2,511 lives were lost to toxic, unregulated drugs in 2023. Sonia Furstenau, Leader of the BC Greens and MLA for Cowichan Valley has issued the following statement:
“Too many British Columbians are exhausted from losing the people they love. While politicians are choosing to dehumanize the people who are suffering and dying. What’s needed from the premier and the BC NDP is the courage to be guided by experts' data and evidence.
B.C. Green Party surpasses fundraising goal for 2023, raises $1.2 million
VICTORIA B.C. – The B.C. Green Party announced today that it raised $1,197,932, surpassing its goal of $1,150,000.
2023 was the third non-election year in a row where the party raised more than $1 million. Monthly fundraising records were also set in January, March, April, May, October, November and December of 2023. 4,620 donors, 15% of whom were first-time donors, made 23,875 donations in total.
“I am so grateful to our generous supporters who put their money behind us in 2023,” said Sonia Furstenau, leader of the B.C. Green Party. “Supporters, volunteers and donors have been more generous than ever with their time, energy and financial support. Their willingness to get involved with politics inspires me ahead of the 2024 election.