VICTORIA, B.C. – As gas prices hit an all-time high and costs of living continue to increase, the B.C. Greens are calling on the B.C. NDP to make public transit free for the next four months to help people right now.
“British Columbians need immediate relief from the high costs of living. Free transit for the summer is a concrete way to reduce expenses,” said Sonia Furstenau, Leader of the B.C. Greens and MLA for Cowichan Valley.
“Premier Horgan said that people should take the bus because gas prices are out of reach. He can take an important step today to help British Columbians save money, and take cars off of the road.”
An average monthly transit pass costs between $85 to $181 - by making transit free for the summer, British Columbians could save up to $724 over the next four months.
“We recognize that for many British Columbians, an efficient transit network is not an option. This government has had five years to invest in expanding public transit around the province. Instead, over and over we see the BC NDP promise but fail to be proactive in addressing affordability and climate change.
“This government has chosen to continue subsidizing oil and gas companies to the tune of $1.3 billion even though they are experiencing record breaking profits from rising gas prices at the expense of British Columbians. A government shows you its priorities by where it spends its money. It’s time to prioritize the people of B.C.”
The B.C. Greens have previously called on government to help people out, including those British Columbians who do not have accessible transit, by:
- Investing in measures that create long-term stability for people and hold oil and gas companies accountable to volatile gas prices;
- Using the carbon tax dividend properly to provide British Columbians with rebates on a regular basis that encourage a shift away from oil and gas;
- Introducing a wealth tax for billionaires to address the growing inequality crisis;
- Expanding transit options in BC to provide transportation options for people outside of cities, and reduce transit fares during times when gas prices are especially high.
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Media contact
JoJo Beattie
Press Secretary
B.C. Green Caucus
+1 250-882-6187 | [email protected]