The province bestowed a rare honour Tuesday in the BC Legislature. The NDP government allowed the MLA for the South Peace Region to respond to the speech from the throne.
Larry Neufeld said during his speech that it is a great honour and that he stands in the legislature, humbled by grief.
Neufeld asked the people of Tumbler Ridge, “to please find peace where you can. We will walk together. Tumbler Ridge is strong, Tumbler Ridge in not alone.”
This is the first time that a sitting BC government has allowed an opposition MLA to be the first person to respond to the throne speech.
BC’s Finance Minister Brenda Bailey has unveiled what she calls a “serious” budget for 2026 that raises the base income tax rate while failing to rein in the deficit as previously pledged. The deficit is projected to spike by a hefty 38 per cent to a record $13.3 billion next fiscal year.
In an effort to help the community access resources, Neufeld also said that he and the Member of Parliament for Prince George – Peace River – Northern Rockies are opening a joint office in Tumbler Ridge.
Neufeld says the goal is to assist residents in accessing the supports and help they need in the coming weeks and months.
Neufeld and Bob Zimmer will operate the office on a 6-month trial basis, however it could be extended further.