Throne Speech

Today in her throne speech Premier Christy Clark reiterated her focus on job creation, building stronger, safer communities and open government.

“In the coming months, we will chart a clear course for British Columbia as we navigate through these challenging economic times,” said Premier Christy Clark.

As they have been since taking office, families remain a key focus of the Premier's agenda. The throne speech outlined initiatives to benefit families:

· The introduction of a new provincial statutory holiday, Family Day commencing in 2013.

· New legislation to modernize our education system.

· New legislation to modernize the BC College of Teachers.

· Streamlined process for traffic-fine violations to free up provincial court time.

· Looking into more openness in trials of those accused of participating in the Vancouver riot.

· A law to assist family law problems.

· A commitment to work with non-profit groups.

· Anti-bullying policies.

· A summit on social innovation.

Also highlighted were initiatives to defend and create jobs, including:

· A review of the operations of all Crown corporations.

· A Major Investments Office.

· A Jobs and Investment Board.

· $24 million in investment across natural resource ministries.

· Creation of an office of the Municipal Auditor General.

· Changes to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.

· Launch of new online tools and a dedicated website to enhance public engagement.

You can watch the full Throne speech here: http://bcleg-ds1.insinc.com/ibc/mp/md/open/l/8/1353/wven.asx or read it here: http://www.leg.bc.ca/39th4th/4-8-39-4.htm