BC United has announced plans to offer immediate financial relief to British Columbia’s fishing and aquaculture sectors by scrapping the provincial carbon tax on commercial fishing vessels and harvesting operations. This initiative is designed to ease the financial burden on fishers and help lower food costs across the province.
BC United Leader Kevin Falcon criticized the current carbon tax under Premier David Eby, arguing that it disproportionately affects fishers and raises industry costs. Falcon stressed that while the federal carbon tax requirement remains in place, BC United can act now to lift this tax from fishing and harvesting, providing much-needed relief.
In addition to supporting the fishing industry, BC United has committed to permanently eliminating the provincial fuel tax, potentially saving drivers up to 15 cents per litre on gasoline and diesel. The party also plans to cancel the carbon tax entirely once federal regulations allow for its removal.
Bill Coltart, BC United’s candidate for Courtenay-Comox, emphasized the urgency of this action, noting that the fishing and aquaculture industries have been overlooked by the current administration. He described the proposed tax relief as a “common sense solution” to support these industries.
This plan could result in up to $45 million in tax relief for BC’s commercial fishing sector, alleviating financial pressure on the industry and making life more affordable for residents across the province.