The past year was a challenging one globally. Here in BC, our government is working hard to ensure we all benefit from a strong economy.

While national governments from around the world negotiated tirelessly in South Africa, British Columbia was involved in a parallel process with sub-national governments and business leaders who were getting down to the business of reducing GHG emissions and promoting green energy and jobs.

As Minister of Public Safety, Solicitor General and Attorney General for the Province of British Columbia, I'm pleased to provide further perspective to yesterday's Supreme Court ruling on British Columbia's new impaired driving legislation.

No one wants to see a child living in poverty. It is an issue that affects all of us and belongs to all of us. We need to empower families with the means to break the poverty cycle by helping to remove barriers and creating opportunities that will bring about real change.

When Community Living BC was created, it was based on a vision put forward by families and self-advocates who had a vision of a government-funded organization that would allow people with developmental disabilities to lead productive lives; build rich relationships; have financial security and employment opportunities; and be accepted and valued as citizens.

This week, our government introduced comprehensive new family law legislation to address the very issues B.C. families and courts are dealing with today. The Family Law Act clarifies parents' responsibilities, addresses family violence and supports families resolving disputes out of court. Most importantly, we are placing the safety and best interests of the child first when families are going through separation and divorce.

There is no more urgent or important goal for our government than ensuring British Columbians have access to the jobs and other economic opportunities needed to support their families.