Over the last week, we reaffirmed our commitment to strengthen local economies, make communities safer, invest in people, and make life more affordable for B.C. families.

After the last two years of unprecedented wildfires, many people in B.C. are heading into summer with a feeling of uncertainty. Will families be able to spend time outdoors hiking, camping and taking advantage of B.C.’s backyard? Or will more people face evacuations and threats to their homes and businesses?

The people of B.C. work hard, and they expect a government that works hard for them. As we begin a new session of the Legislature – the first for our new government – our focus is on getting results for people.

Too many people in B.C. have struggled to make ends meet and find a home they can afford. The holiday season often adds the financial strain of travel and entertaining, and combined with the high costs of rent, child care and other expenses, it can be overwhelming.

Housing affordability is the biggest challenge facing people in B.C. every day. For years, the crisis was ignored while prices surged beyond incomes, and hurt people, businesses and communities.

Good health is the foundation of a good life. We trust doctors and health-care professionals to help us get well and be well. And we rest easier knowing that if our loved ones are sick, someone is there to care for them. Every person deserves to know that public health care is there, when and where they need it.

Many British Columbians were shocked when they heard the findings of the Expert Panel on Money Laundering in Real Estate. More than $7 billion in dirty money was laundered in B.C. last year alone. About $5 billion of that went through B.C.’s real estate market, driving housing prices up and hurting families, seniors and students.

Our government welcomed 2019 by announcing that 240,000 lower-income families will get the help they need with prescription medication costs. It’s part of our work to make life more affordable, and make health care more accessible for people in B.C.

Education is the great equalizer. It opens the door to a good-paying job, and a secure future.

The people of B.C. work hard, and they expect a government that works hard for them. As we begin a new session of the Legislature, the first for our new government, our focus is getting results for people.