As 2011 draws to a close, Canadians have been confronted by stark examples of poverty in First Nations communities. We've also seen that solutions do not come easily.

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.