The speculation and vacancy tax is helping turn empty units into homes and creating affordable housing in communities throughout the province, new data confirms.

Taking action to tackle some of the biggest challenges people in B.C. are facing was at the centre of several new pieces of legislation passed during the fall session, including the most significant housing legislation in B.C. history to deliver more homes for people faster.

Jennifer Whiteside, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, has released the following statement regarding the BC Coroners Service report on illicit drug toxicity deaths in October:

At least 2,039 lives have been lost to unregulated drugs in the first 10 months of 2023, according to preliminary data released by the BC Coroners Service.

Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, has released the following statement about the first unexplained wealth order application filing:

People who want to help shape and improve how the Province provides financial support following a disaster now have until the end of January 2024.

British Columbia’s economic and fiscal plan remains stable in the face of a slowing global economy and high interest rates as the Second Quarterly Report forecasts a lower deficit than in the previous fiscal update.

Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, has released the following statement in response to recent threats of violence to extort money from people:

Community organizations throughout the province that have experienced or are at risk of experiencing hate-motivated crimes are encouraged to submit grant applications for the Anti-Hate Community Support Fund.