Skip to content

B.C. needs public works

Letters

Editor:

Re: “BC Ferries CEO says plans for second ferry are now on hold,” July 31.

Famous economist John Maynard Keynes, whose economic theory helped save the world from the Great Depression, advocated higher government spending to restart an economy bogged down in recession. Leaders around the world followed his advice. COVID-19 has probably brought us to the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression. To provide the economic stimulus needed at this most unusual time, Keynes would no doubt have counselled the government of B.C. to undertake substantial public works such as building roads and bridges.

This is precisely what residents of the Sunshine Coast need to augment our badly serviced ferry route: a bridge or road to connect us to the rest of the mainland – or at the very least an additional ferry and better terminals. If the government cannot borrow to do this (despite unprecedented low interest rates) then it should consider reimposing tolls on the Port Mann and Golden Ears bridges and the Coquihalla Highway, and charging for the use of inland ferries. What Victoria needs to do is give us fiscal justice and provide some economic sense.

David Buxton, Sechelt