. . World News – CA – B. . C.. . The speech from the throne promises a quick introduction of the COVID-19 vaccine, a financial aid for the unemployed

In a much shorter speech than usual, the B. . C.. . The government promised quick and safe delivery of the COVID-19 vaccine and financial assistance to those out of work due to the pandemic on Monday when the MLAs returned to lawmakers.

Instead of focusing on the four-year majority mandate it received in October. In the election, the NDP government focused its throne speech on short-term goals to address the global crisis, but did not offer any new commitments.

« The way to get through this difficult period is to take the same approach we took in the first wave: listening to the experts, supporting and taking care of the frontline health workers, » said Lt. . -Gov. Said Janet Austin as she read the speech.

Following the federal government’s announcement on Monday that Canada would have nearly 250. 000 doses of the Pfizer vaccine, the speech reiterated that distribution will begin with those most at risk. Provincial Health Officer Dr. . Henry should sketch B.. C.. . Own sales plans later this week.

The speech is read as a modified version of the BC NDP’s campaign platform and does not contain any specific details on many measures. The government should already introduce laws on Tuesday how the financial relief from pandemics will be distributed.

The recovery benefit in the amount of 1. $ 000 is staggered up to an annual family income of 175. Granted $ 000 per year, meaning those who earn more will get less of the benefit.

The voting platform also promised a one-time direct deposit of $ 500 to individuals less than 62. Earn $ 000 per year, up to 87. 000 USD.

« As we gather here today, we pledge to put our shoulders behind the wheel and work together to make these better days a reality for everyone as soon as possible, » Austin read.

« If we focus on fighting the virus now, British Columbia can move as quickly as possible to address our economic recovery. By investing in people, empowering communities, and promoting jobs and growth in a clean energy future, we can create recovery for all. ”

As for the economic recovery, the speech made a general mention of rewarding eligible companies for hiring during the pandemic, helping thousands of people improve their skills or acquiring new skills to find work, and it will make it easier for companies to increase productivity through a discount on provincial sales tax on capital assets such as machinery and equipment.

The government is also committed to the new Hospital at Home initiative, which enables patients to receive treatment at home, reduce hospital congestion, and add more MRI machines in areas of high demand.

“The steps taken so far have saved lives. However, with the recent wave of COVID-19, we have more to do, ”reads Austin.

« In the months ahead, your government will build on the measures that have already been taken. Some programs are expanded or expanded and new ones started. ”

BC Liberal Interim Leader Shirley Bond said the opposition will press the New Democrats to resolve issues beyond the Pandemic Recovery Fund, particularly the provincial finances.

Horgan’s New Democrats won 57 of the 87 seats in the legislature while the Liberals lost more than a dozen seats, prompting Andrew Wilkinson to step down as leader.

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Speech from the Throne, British Columbia, John Horgan