VICTORIA B次元官网网址� The B.C. government presented a cautious preview of the coming year with its speech from the throne Tuesday, predicting a rural revival through industrial growth while lowering expectations for mining and natural gas exports.
Read by Lieutenant Governor Judith Guichon to begin the spring legislature session, announced the formation of a rural advisory committee to "provide independent and impartial advice on helping rural B.C. increase opportunities, manage growth and meet its full potential in communities big and small."
Premier Christy Clark said the government has important tasks ahead, such as starting construction on the $8 billion Site C hydroelectric dam and revamping the education system to fill an anticipated skills gap.
"We're sticking to the plan, and we've been successful with that plan," Clark told reporters. "I know it doesn't make great headlines in the newspapers, but I don't think we want to change so we can help you get a news story."
The speech referred to five new mines opening since 2011, but avoided mention of northeast coal mines that have closed due to low commodity prices that also threaten the operation of metal mines in B.C.
NDP leader John Horgan questioned Clark's intention to keep cutting "red tape," an obsession of the B.C. Liberals since 2001.
"They cut red tape at Mount Polley," Horgan said of gaps in inspection that predated the collapse of the mine's tailings dam last summer.
As the government continues to await investment decisions for liquefied natural gas facilities, the speech notes that LNG "could create 100,000 jobs and the revenues to eliminate our debt," adding that exports are needed to maintain a gas industry that already employs 13,000 people.
Much of the speech touts earlier achievements, including the carbon tax on fuels and a settlement with B.C. public school teachers after a bitter strike last year.
The government confirmed it is about to table a third straight balanced budget on Feb. 17, and hinted at new spending aimed at expanding the economy.
The government also plans to launch a new "medal of good citizenship" to recognize those who donate their time and money to improve their communities.
