Budget 2024 continues the BC NDP’s record of making meaningful investments in the public services that matter to people and communities, and creating and expanding programs that make life more affordable for families, said CUPE BC President Karen Ranalletta.
“With this budget, the David Eby BC NDP government again demonstrates forward-thinking leadership, making smart and strategic increases to public spending that addresses affordability and supports economic growth,” said Ranalletta. “The historic investments of $43.3 billion health, education, post-secondary and transit infrastructure will strengthen our economy today, and build a better BC for generations to come.”
“I’m pleased to see the strong focus affordability for workers, with increases to the BC Family Benefit, the new BC Builds program, funding for legal aid and family law access, and the BC Electricity Affordability Credit,” said Ranalletta. “I am also excited to see that Budget 2024 builds on last year’s funding for prescription contraception by making in-vitro fertilization affordable for families that can’t conceive without help.”
“While we remain disappointed that public dollars continue to flow to elite private schools, and that there is no funding to remove private, for-profit operators from our public transportation systems, this is a good budget for public services,” said Ranalletta. “Increased funding for Community Living British Columbia is a particular highlight for CUPE members who work in Community Social Services, and who know this increased funding will improve the lives of both workers in the sector, and those they serve.”
“CUPE is a national union, we frequently hear stories from other provinces where workers and public services are attacked and undermined every single day,” said Ranalletta. “Budget 2024 is yet another reminder of how fortunate we are in BC to have an NDP government that puts the needs of people, families and communities first, and who are committed to building an inclusive economy and a better BC for everyone.”