NDP leader John Horgan shuffled the roles of his party’s critics last week and North Coast MLA Jennifer Rice is now the opposition spokesperson for northern and rural economic development.
In a statement to the press, Rice said that premier Christy Clark had six years to help Prince Rupert and northern communities but has failed. She cites that fee hikes and bill increases to B.C. Hydro rates and ferry rates will negatively impact northern communities and their economies.
“These cuts are driving away jobs and forcing people to choose between paying rent and paying for heat and food,” she said adding that the economy isn’t working for northern communities and that it is bad for the entire province.
In response to Rice’s new role, B.C. Liberal candidate Herb Pond said, “This election will be all about who can help deliver jobs and opportunity for our communities – an area where Ms. Rice’s record is unfortunately lacking. Instead of advocating for economic development in the North Coast, she hasn’t spoken up for any major projects – and didn’t show up to vote in the Legislature for the biggest potential investment in our region’s history.”