13.7 C
Cañada
Friday, May 2, 2025
Subscribe
Home Blog

Burning Ban in Effect Across Surrey as Dry Season Begins

James
-
0
Burning Ban in Effect Across Surrey as Dry Season Begins

Surrey enacts a citywide open burning ban starting May 1, 2025, to reduce wildfire risks. Dry Season Action Plan boosts safety with signs, rules, and enforcement.

SURREY, B.C. — As temperatures rise and summer approaches, the Surrey Fire Service is cracking down on fire risks with a citywide ban on open burning, effective May 1, 2025.

With increasingly dry conditions raising the risk of brush fires and smoke-related complaints, officials are urging residents and visitors alike to stay fire-smart. The ban applies to all forms of open burning, including backyard and beach fires, as part of a broader effort to protect people, property, and the environment during the wildfire-prone season.

City Launches Coordinated Dry Season Strategy

In collaboration with Surrey Parks and Bylaws Enforcement, the Fire Service has rolled out a Dry Season Action Plan, aimed at increasing public awareness and reducing fire hazards. New signage will be installed across the city to inform residents about:

  • Current fire danger ratings
  • High-risk areas where discarded smoking materials have sparked fires
  • Prohibited fire zones, including local beaches and parks

Enforcement and Exceptions

The City has issued a clear warning: any fire service response to open burning violations will result in the fire being extinguished, and property owners may be billed for associated emergency response costs.

While open flames are banned, residents may still use ULC/CSA-approved natural gas, propane, or charcoal briquette appliances, such as BBQs and patio heaters. However, charcoal use on city property — including beaches and parks — may be further restricted during high or extreme fire danger ratings.

Stay Safe, Stay Informed

City officials emphasize that community cooperation is essential to prevent avoidable fire emergencies. Residents are encouraged to monitor local fire conditions and adhere to posted signage throughout the dry season.

A New Kind of Country: Cloverdale Rodeo & Country Fair Returns with Fresh Energy and Deep Roots

James
-
0
A New Kind of Country: Cloverdale Rodeo & Country Fair Returns with Fresh Energy and Deep Roots

Experience the 134th Cloverdale Rodeo & Country Fair, May 16–19—where rodeo tradition meets global flair, live music, roller discos, and family fun.

CLOVERDALE, B.C. — Where heritage meets a new generation, the 134th Cloverdale Rodeo & Country Fair is gearing up for its most dynamic year yet. Set for May 16 to 19, this long-running tradition continues to evolve — blending authentic country charm with a fresh dose of urban energy and multicultural flair.

For over a century, the Cloverdale Fairgrounds have welcomed families, rodeo fans, and thrill-seekers alike. What began in the late 1800s as a humble agricultural fair is now one of British Columbia’s largest annual events, attracting over 70,000 visitors and offering something for everyone — from classic rodeo thrills to skateboarding battles and roller discos.

Cloverdale’s Western Heart, Global Soul

At its core is the Cloverdale Rodeo, celebrating its 77th year in 2025. Known as B.C.’s biggest rodeo, the event will host five adrenaline-charged performances, where 96 top-tier cowboys and cowgirls compete for over $300,000 in prize money. The competition merges the tradition of western sport with a live-event atmosphere that keeps crowds on the edge of their seats.

Yet beyond the bucking broncos and barrel racing, the fair reveals a different story — one of an evolving, diverse community proud of its global roots. As Cloverdale’s main streets echo with small-town charm, the surrounding fairgrounds celebrate inclusion through global cuisine, cultural showcases, and interactive family attractions.

Fresh Additions for 2025: Action, Rhythm, and Roller Derby

This year’s fair introduces bold new venues designed to captivate younger and more diverse audiences. The newly launched Action Zone will host freestyle skateboarding, BMX stunt shows, and street dance showcases, all backed by live DJs and a festival vibe.

Not far away, the Roll-A-Rama inside Cloverdale Arena will keep things spinning with public roller skating, roller derby matchups, and after-dark roller disco parties — a nostalgic, high-energy addition that’s already generating buzz.

For food lovers, the fairgrounds will feature over 50 vendors serving up both classic fair treats and international flavours, reflecting the region’s cultural mosaic.

A Soundtrack for Every Taste

Music remains a pillar of the event’s appeal. With six stages and over 50 performances, the fair delivers a diverse lineup, including Canadian headliners, emerging local talent, and acoustic sets in relaxed, intimate settings.

Stages like the CR Corral, Longhorn Saloon, and Hops & Vines will pulse with energy all weekend, while the Indigenous Village offers not only performances but opportunities for cultural learning and connection.

Built by Volunteers, Powered by Community

Behind the scenes, over 300 volunteers are the driving force of the event. Their efforts help fund local initiatives, including the Cloverdale Youth Initiative Foundation, which last year benefited from a record-setting $44,490 50/50 draw. These contributions provide scholarships, youth programming, and ongoing support for community charities.

From lumberjack shows to pro wrestling, the Buckaroo Barn to the Indigenous Village, the Cloverdale Country Fair is more than a weekend event — it’s a reflection of a community that honours tradition while embracing change.

South Fraser Bird Trail: A World-Class Birding Destination Just Minutes from Metro Vancouver

James
-
0
South Fraser Bird Trail: A World-Class Birding Destination Just Minutes from Metro Vancouver

Discover the South Fraser Bird Trail—an urban-accessible birding haven spanning Surrey, Delta, and Richmond, with hotspots along the Pacific Flyway.

SURREY, B.C. — A birder’s paradise lies just beyond the bustle of downtown Vancouver. The South Fraser Bird Trail, spanning Surrey, Delta, and Richmond, is fast becoming one of North America’s most remarkable birdwatching corridors, drawing wildlife enthusiasts from across the continent.

Nestled at the mouth of the Fraser River, the region is more than a scenic escape — it’s a critical waypoint on the Pacific Flyway, a major migratory route stretching from Alaska to South America. Each year, the area sees a spectacular influx of migratory birds using the region’s coastal marshes, farmland, and mudflats to rest and refuel.

While local bird populations thrive year-round, it’s the massive migratory flocks that captivate birders, photographers, and conservationists. And with proximity to urban centres — just 15 km from downtown Vancouver — the South Fraser Bird Trail offers a rare blend of untouched nature and urban convenience.

A Trail for Birds — and Birders

The South Fraser Bird Trail is dotted with accessible parks, protected wetlands, and bike-friendly paths, offering multiple vantage points to spot hundreds of species, from majestic Bald Eagles to delicate shorebirds. Even casual visitors are likely to glimpse feathered rarities while enjoying coastal scenery and nearby eateries or shops.

For visitors from Washington State, hotspots like Serpentine Fen or Blackie Spit are just 20 minutes from the Peace Arch border crossing.

Birding Hotspots Along the Trail

Iona Beach Regional Park (Richmond)
This birding powerhouse boasts over 280 recorded species. Just next to Vancouver International Airport, Iona offers 20 km of shoreline views and a 4 km jetty popular with both birders and joggers. Expect to see everything from shorebirds and seabirds to raptors and songbirds in its varied ecosystems.

West Dyke Trail (Richmond)
A 6 km stretch from Terra Nova Rural Park to Garry Point Park, this route pairs scenic birdwatching with North Shore mountain views. Stop at Steveston Village for a post-birding bite or explore nearby parks filled with hawks, owls, and wildflowers.

Boundary Bay (Delta/Surrey)
One of the busiest birding sites on the Flyway, Boundary Bay sees massive gatherings of Western Sandpipers, Dunlins, and Northern Pintails. The eastern side is especially rich for spotting shorebirds on sandy flats, while nearby fields attract owls and harriers. Birding here is rewarding in any season.

George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary & Westham Island (Delta)
This protected sanctuary is a haven for both resident and migratory species. Visitors can hand-feed ducks and chickadees, explore wetland trails, and climb an observation tower for panoramic views. Don’t miss the Sandhill Cranes during breeding season or the stunning Snow Goose migrations in spring and fall. (Note: Advance reservations required as of March 2.)

Blackie Spit (South Surrey)
Home to more than 230 bird species, Blackie Spit features accessible boardwalks, a 5 km trail, and ideal conditions for waterbirds and shorebirds. Adjacent to Crescent Beach, it’s one of the most prolific birding areas in the region.

Mud Bay Park (Surrey)
Easily accessible off Highway 99, this shoreline park connects with the larger Boundary Bay Dyke Trail, offering up to 20 km of continuous birding adventure. Low tides are particularly active, with thousands of shorebirds feeding on exposed mudflats.

Serpentine Fen (Surrey)
A lesser-known gem, this 3.5 km loop near the Serpentine River hosts 130 species, including Yellowthroats, Cedar Waxwings, and Black-headed Grosbeaks. A year-round destination, Serpentine Fen offers varied birding in marshes, woodlands, and open fields.

Beyond the Hotspots

While these locations are must-visits, the entire South Fraser region is rich with birdlife — from Red-tailed Hawks perched on farmland posts to Eagles soaring above the highway. Whether you’re a dedicated birder or a curious newcomer, the trail invites exploration with self-guided itineraries and scenic routes throughout the region.

Surrey Expands E-Bike Sharing to Newton as City Rethinks Bike Parking Rules

James
-
0
Surrey Expands E-Bike Sharing to Newton as City Rethinks Bike Parking Rules

Surrey expands its e-bike program into Newton and proposes reducing underused bike parking requirements in new developments to better match real-world demand.

SURREY, B.C. — Surrey is pedaling forward with greener transportation options, as city council voted this week to expand its electric bike-sharing program into Newton and backed a proposal to overhaul underused bike parking requirements in new developments.

At a council meeting on April 28, Surrey approved extending its e-bike pilot — currently operating in North Surrey — into Newton for the second year of the program. The project, run at no cost to the city under a contract with Bird Canada, has already logged over 14,000 rides since launching last April.

Bird Canada operates a fleet of 200 e-bikes, available through a mobile app. The bikes can only be picked up or dropped off at designated parking spots along city rights-of-way, with per-minute rental fees and discounted rates for frequent users. The company adjusts the number of bikes monthly to reflect ridership demand.

“Expanding to Newton allows us to improve access to SkyTrain, parks, and shopping centres,” said Scott Neuman, Surrey’s general manager of engineering. “The first year has shown strong community uptake.”

Scooters Spark Debate

Councillor Doug Elford raised the issue of adding e-scooters, noting lobbying efforts from the public. However, Neuman cautioned that scooters face additional legal hurdles — including age limits (16+), mandatory helmets, and a maximum speed limit of 25 km/h — making them more difficult to regulate safely.

Mayor Brenda Locke voiced concern about accidents involving e-scooters. “I see them going really fast, way beyond 25 kilometres an hour,” she said, prompting Neuman to commit to gathering and reporting accident data to council.

Rethinking Bike Parking Rules

Council also backed a second report from Neuman and Ron Gill, general manager of planning and development, proposing changes to off-street bicycle parking requirements in residential buildings.

A March survey of 13 multi-family tower sites in Surrey’s city centre — comprising 5,579 dwellings — revealed that actual bike usage falls far below city mandates. Despite current zoning bylaws requiring 1.2 bicycle parking spaces per unit, the average utilization rate was just 0.1, with the highest site hitting only 0.27.

“We’re seeing storage rooms meant for bikes sitting mostly empty,” Neuman explained. “That space could be better used for other needs like vehicle parking or resident storage.”

City staff now recommend amending the bylaw to require a more realistic minimum of 0.4 spaces per unit, in line with actual usage patterns and evolving resident demands. A public hearing on the proposed changes is scheduled for Monday, May 12.

Councillor Pardeep Kooner welcomed the move, calling the current disparity between bike use and required infrastructure “kind of shocking.”

When asked about costs, Neuman estimated that one underground vehicle parking stall could run $70,000–$75,000, while a comparable space for several bikes might cost $17,000–$20,000.

Tariff Tensions and Economic Jitters Stall B.C. Housing Market, But Rebound Expected in 2026

James
-
0
Tariff Tensions and Economic Jitters Stall B.C. Housing Market, But Rebound Expected in 2026

B.C.’s housing market faces a 2025 slowdown amid trade tensions, high rates, and policy changes, though a strong rebound is forecast for 2026, says BCREA.

VANCOUVER, B.C. — British Columbia’s housing market is poised for another year of sluggish performance, as global trade tensions and economic unease continue to cast a long shadow over buyer confidence.

According to a new housing forecast released Wednesday by the B.C. Real Estate Association (BCREA), residential sales in the province are projected to decline by 1.1% in 2025, dropping to 73,650 units. The impact is expected to hit Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley even harder, where sales are forecast to fall 1.6% and 2.4%, respectively.

Tariffs Shake Buyer Confidence

BCREA’s chief economist Brendon Ogmundson pointed to the escalating trade tensions—particularly between the U.S. and China—as a key factor stalling market activity.

“Many were hoping for a more stable housing year,” said Ogmundson. “But the threat of a global trade war has created a cloud of uncertainty. While there’s clear pent-up demand, it’s being held back by anxiety about where the economy is headed.”

The report notes that early 2025 sales in Metro Vancouver are already 7% below last year’s weak first-quarter performance. In the Fraser Valley, that figure jumps to a concerning 23% decline.

On the Ground: Slower Sales, Higher Risk

Realtor Harvey Gill of Re/Max City Realty in Vancouver said the slowdown began late last year and shows no signs of letting up.

“Inventory is up, but buyers are nervous,” he said. “Tariffs are one part of it, but high mortgage rates and stricter lending requirements are making it hard for people to qualify.”

Gill also cited a wave of refinancing pressure hitting homeowners who locked in ultra-low rates during the pandemic.

“Now, those mortgages are renewing at much higher rates. Monthly payments are rising sharply, and some people just can’t make it work,” he explained.

In some cases, presale buyers are backing out before completion, forfeiting deposits as they scramble to offload units they can no longer finance.

Policy Pressures Add to Market Strain

Beyond economic factors, federal and provincial policies are also cooling demand. These include:

  • A foreign buyer ban extended to 2027 for major urban areas
  • The B.C. speculation and vacancy tax
  • A newly implemented home flipping tax, targeting short-term investors

These measures, aimed at curbing real estate speculation and making housing more affordable, are further complicating the landscape for buyers and sellers alike.

A Glimmer of Hope for 2026

Despite the gloomy near-term outlook, BCREA economists expect a strong rebound in 2026, as markets stabilize and buyer confidence returns.

Residential sales across B.C. are forecast to rise 8.8% next year, reaching 80,150 units. The Metro Vancouver region is projected to lead the recovery with a 13.5% jump, followed by 7.4% growth in the Fraser Valley and 10.7% in Chilliwack.

While B.C. may be more insulated than other provinces from U.S. economic fallout, the association warns that continued volatility with global trading partners, especially the U.S. and China, could weigh heavily on the province’s broader economic performance heading into 2026.

Surrey Industry Tour Highlights Resilience Amid U.S. Tariff Pressures

James
-
0
Surrey Industry Tour Highlights Resilience Amid U.S. Tariff Pressures

Surrey’s 2024 Industry Tour reveals trade challenges and growth in local sectors, as businesses adapt to U.S. tariffs and call for stronger cross-border policies.

As Canadian businesses contend with mounting pressure from U.S. tariffs, the annual Surrey Industry Tour delivered a revealing look at the economic forces reshaping local industry—both the hot streaks of growth and the cold realities of international trade friction.

Organized by the Surrey Board of Trade and its merger partner, the South Surrey & White Rock Chamber of Commerce, the April 23 tour drew three full buses of participants to 13 industrial and innovation sites across the city. From Port Kells to Newton and City Centre, the tour showcased both expansion stories and sobering challenges faced by Surrey’s industrial sector.

Foundries Under Fire

A poignant stop on Bus Two’s itinerary was Highland Foundry, a company that has operated in Surrey since the 1970s but is now downsizing dramatically due to trade-related pressures.

“Offshoring and tariffs have devastated our sector,” said Warren Geraghty, Highland’s general manager. “We’ve gone from 130 employees to 50. Eighty per cent of our product goes to the U.S., and tariffs have had a severe impact on our competitiveness.”

The foundry is consolidating operations on its nine-acre site to reduce overhead, with plans to lease out vacated space by August. Geraghty noted the immense logistical challenge of maintaining safety and productivity during the transition.

Growth Amid Constraints

While some businesses are scaling back, others are scaling up. In Newton, family-run City Wide Produce is preparing to move from a cramped 4,200-square-foot facility to a new 27,000-square-foot building near Highway 10. Owner Gopal Gupta said the upgrade will increase pallet capacity tenfold and enable the company to lease out space as needed.

Still, Gupta acknowledged the unpredictability of tariffs on produce imports. “At one point, Mexican produce became more expensive than U.S. goods—something we’ve never seen before,” he said. “Consumer preferences shifted quickly, and it’s tough to know what’s next.”

Innovation on Display

The final stop for Bus Two was WearTech Labs, an SFU-supported research hub for wearable technology at the City Centre 2 tower. The facility is at the forefront of innovation, developing everything from exoskeletons to advanced prosthetics and smart clothing.

Other tour stops across the city included Beedie’s One Nine Two Business Centre, Cloverdale Paint, Mountain Equipment Company, and Solid Rock Steel Fabricating, with commentary from commercial real estate experts at Lee & Associates.

Harsh Economic Realities

At a luncheon held at the Civic Hotel, Andrew Wynn-Williams, B.C. vice-president of the Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters Association, offered a stark contrast to the optimism seen on the tour.

“Feeling inspired?” he asked the room. “Well, I’m here to depress you.”

He then outlined sobering statistics from the April 16 release of the Blueprint to Strengthen Canadian Manufacturing, highlighting declines in B.C.’s manufacturing output and warning of deepening threats from U.S. tariffs and a potential recession.

Cross-Border Cooperation

Just a day later, Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke took part in a roundtable in Blaine, Washington, alongside U.S. Senator Patty Murray, to discuss the cross-border consequences of tariff policies.

“Tariffs are not just economic levers—they’re a tax on our communities,” Locke said in a statement. “Our economies are intertwined, and now more than ever, we need collaborative, fair trade practices that support growth on both sides of the border.”

With supply chains under strain and trade relationships tested, the message from Surrey’s industrial leaders was clear: adaptation is happening, but stronger policy support is urgently needed.

Cloverdale Market Days Kicks Off May 24 with Record Vendors, New Attractions

James
-
0
Cloverdale Market Days Kicks Off May 24 with Record Vendors, New Attractions

Cloverdale Market Days returns May 24 with its biggest season yet—shop local vendors, enjoy live music, street food, family fun, and free parking in downtown Cloverdale.

Downtown Cloverdale is set to buzz with excitement as Cloverdale Market Days returns for its 2025 season, launching May 24 with the largest lineup in the festival’s history.

Hosted by the Cloverdale Arts and Entertainment Association (CAEA), the popular open-air street market will transform 176th Street into a vibrant hub of shopping, food, and live entertainment for five Saturdays this summer—May 24, June 21, July 26, August 23, and September 13.

“This May’s event is shaping up to be our biggest yet,” said CAEA President Paige Hardy. “We have more vendors and food trucks than ever before, including a great mix of returning favourites and exciting new additions.”

A Culinary Street Party

Foodies can look forward to a diverse lineup of food trucks spread across both sides of 176th Street at 57th Avenue. Featured vendors include Betty’s Greek Honey Ballz, I Heart Souvlaki, Lucente’s Osteria, Mr. Arancino, REEL Mac and Cheese, Taco Tigre, Zerellis Sandwich Shop, Hurricane Potato, and Twisted Lemon. Several trucks will offer vegan and gluten-free options to accommodate dietary needs.

Shop, Play, and Stay a While

With dozens of artisans and local businesses setting up shop, visitors can browse a wide array of handmade goods, crafts, clothing, and specialty items. “We’re proud to welcome many new vendors this year, alongside familiar faces from previous seasons,” Hardy noted.

Families can enjoy the return of the Kids’ Zone at Hawthorne Square, complete with balloon twisting by Korki, face painting by Jen, and roaming entertainment from stilt-walking and unicycling crowd-favourite Mr. Bubbles.

Live music will be another key highlight, with three dedicated busking zones featuring a rotating roster of local performers. The music stages will be located outside Michaud’s, Mason’s, and The Henry.

Free Parking and Community Spirit

Market Days runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on each festival date. Parking is free, with numerous lots surrounding the event area on 176th Street between 56A Avenue and 58th Avenue.

“This is more than just a market—it’s a community celebration,” Hardy said. “Whether you’re shopping, eating, listening to music, or just strolling through, Market Days is a great way to discover the heart of Cloverdale.”

Business Groups Welcome PM Carney, Urge Swift Action on Trade, Taxes, and Small Business Growth

James
-
0
Business Groups Welcome PM Carney, Urge Swift Action on Trade, Taxes, and Small Business Growth

Business groups welcome PM Carney, urging swift action on trade, tax reform, SME support, and investment to drive growth in Surrey and across Canada.

As Prime Minister Mark Carney takes the reins of Canada’s federal government following a decisive election victory, two key business organizations in British Columbia are calling for urgent action on a range of economic and social priorities.

The Surrey Board of Trade (SBOT) and the South Surrey & White Rock Chamber of Commerce have issued a joint statement congratulating Prime Minister Carney and urging his administration to focus on strengthening Canada’s competitiveness, modernizing tax policy, and supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

“Canada’s economic future hinges on bold, forward-thinking leadership,” said Joslyn Young, CEO of the Surrey Board of Trade and Acting Executive Director of the South Surrey & White Rock Chamber. “We’re eager to work with the new federal government to create an environment where businesses can thrive and communities can prosper.”

Economic and Social Priorities

The organizations outlined five immediate priorities for the federal government:

  • Eliminate internal trade barriers to enhance productivity and create a seamless national marketplace.
  • Diversify global trade partnerships to reduce economic vulnerability and open new markets.
  • Overhaul the tax system to simplify compliance and promote innovation and investment.
  • Invest in socio-economic development, including housing, healthcare, workforce training, infrastructure, and immigration reform.
  • Bolster SME support through targeted funding, reduced red tape, and access to capital.

Young emphasized that economic strategies must be paired with inclusive policies to meet the needs of rapidly growing communities. “Surrey and White Rock are among the fastest-growing urban centres in Canada,” she said. “Smart, targeted investments are essential to maintain momentum and ensure that both businesses and residents are supported.”

Regional Political Landscape

The political map in Surrey and White Rock remains largely consistent, with the six local ridings electing the following Members of Parliament:

  • Langley Township–Fraser Heights: Tako van Popta (Conservative, incumbent)
  • Fleetwood–Port Kells: Gurbux Saini (Liberal)
  • South Surrey–White Rock: Ernie Klassen (Liberal)
  • Surrey Centre: Randeep Sarai (Liberal, incumbent)
  • Surrey Newton: Sukh Dhaliwal (Liberal, incumbent)
  • Cloverdale–Langley City: Tamara Jansen (Conservative, incumbent)

Both the SBOT and the Chamber reaffirmed their readiness to collaborate with all levels of government to help shape policies that promote sustainable economic development, job creation, and inclusive prosperity.

“Now is the time for action,” said Young. “Together, we can build a stronger, more resilient Canada.”

Could Ranked Ballots Have Changed the 2025 Election? Trudeau’s Missed Reform Reignites Debate

James
-
0
Could Ranked Ballots Have Changed the 2025 Election? Trudeau’s Missed Reform Reignites Debate

As Trudeau reflects on his unfulfilled electoral reform promise, experts say ranked ballots might have changed the 2025 election outcome and boosted smaller parties.

As he prepares to step down, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has reflected on what he sees as one of his biggest missed opportunities: electoral reform. In particular, he regrets not delivering on his promise to change how Canadians vote — a pledge he first made in 2015.

“I wish we had changed our voting system so people could rank their choices,” Trudeau said earlier this year. “It would have encouraged parties to focus more on common ground and less on division.”

What Is a Ranked Ballot System?

Also known as the “alternative vote,” ranked ballots allow voters to list candidates in order of preference. If no one gets more than 50% of the vote right away, the least popular candidates are removed, and their supporters’ second (or third) choices are redistributed until a candidate crosses the majority mark.

The idea has been floated in Canada before. In fact, Trudeau’s government explored electoral reform in 2016 but dropped the plan after disagreements within the Liberal Party about the best replacement for the current system.

Would It Have Made a Difference in 2025?

According to experts, yes — especially in tight races.

Dennis Pilon, a political science professor at York University, says the current system hurt smaller parties like the NDP in the recent election. He points to the Nanaimo–Ladysmith riding, where the Conservative candidate won with just 35% of the vote. Meanwhile, the NDP, Liberals, and Greens combined for over 60%. With ranked ballots, second-choice votes could have shifted the outcome.

“Voters weren’t necessarily abandoning the NDP or Greens,” Pilon said. “They were just trying to stop another party from winning.”

NDP’s Major Loss Raises Questions

The 2025 election hit the NDP hard. The party lost most of its seats, dropping from 24 to just seven, which cost them official party status. Many voters on social media expressed frustration, saying ranked ballots could have protected progressive voices in Parliament.

Strategic voting — where people choose the “lesser evil” instead of their true preference — is risky. “It’s hard to vote strategically without knowing how everyone else will vote,” Pilon explained. “And that kind of precise data isn’t available at the local level.”

Could Liberals Have Secured a Majority?

Liberal candidates may have benefited the most from a ranked system. The party won 169 seats — just three shy of a majority. Political science professor Lydia Miljan says in ridings where three parties split the vote, a few extra second-choice preferences could have pushed the Liberals over the line.

“In those close races, ranked ballots might have handed the Liberals a slim majority,” she said.

Not Everyone’s Sold on the Idea

While some view ranked ballots as a fairer way to vote, others are skeptical. Pilon points out that the system still favors bigger parties — just in a different way than the current one. Reformers often argue for proportional representation instead, where seats are awarded based on a party’s overall share of the vote.

Despite the renewed interest, Liberal leader Mark Carney has made it clear that electoral reform isn’t a priority for his government.

B.C. Premier Declares May 2 as Day of Mourning After Vancouver Festival Attack

James
-
0
B.C. Premier Declares May 2 as Day of Mourning After Vancouver Festival Attack

A time to grieve. A time to reflect. A time to act. That’s the message from British Columbia Premier David Eby following the horrific vehicle-ramming attack that killed 11 people during Vancouver’s Lapu Lapu Day celebration.

May 2 Declared Day of Remembrance Across B.C.

In the aftermath of the devastating attack at a Filipino street festival, Premier Eby announced that Friday, May 2, will be recognized as a provincial day of mourning.

“This will be a day for all British Columbians to reflect on the lives lost and the long-lasting pain inflicted,” Eby told reporters. “It’s also a day to stand in solidarity with the Filipino community — both here and globally — as they process unimaginable grief.”

Mental Health Act Review to Move Forward

In response to the tragedy, Eby confirmed that the province will initiate a formal review of B.C.’s Mental Health Act, with a focus on how to modernize and improve care for individuals with serious mental illnesses.

The review will be led by the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with experts including Chief Psychiatric Officer Dr. Daniel Vigo.

Eby acknowledged the review had been postponed due to ongoing legal challenges to provisions allowing for involuntary treatment of mentally ill individuals.

“We believe these tools are essential,” Eby said. “But we must also ensure the system works for those without strong family support — those who might otherwise fall through the cracks.”

Suspect Had Prior Mental Health Interactions

Authorities have identified the suspect as 30-year-old Kai Ji Adam Lo, who had a documented history of interactions with police tied to mental health issues. At the time of the incident, Lo was on extended leave from hospital care and under the supervision of a psychiatric team.

Despite being compliant with treatment, officials say there were no prior warnings of violent behavior — a detail that will likely become central in the ongoing criminal trial and possible public inquiry.

Public Trauma and the Path Forward

The province is grappling not only with loss but also with broader questions around mental health support, safety, and policy accountability.

Experts warn of the long-term emotional toll such events can inflict on survivors, communities, and cultural groups. Calls are growing for a swift and comprehensive governmental response.

“There’s a collective wound here,” Eby noted. “This tragedy has underscored the need for better systems and stronger safety nets.”

Standing With the Filipino Community

As vigils continue across Vancouver — including a moving tribute hosted by UBC — the premier emphasized the importance of recognizing the deep cultural and emotional impact of the attack.

“The Filipino community in B.C. enriches our province every single day,” Eby said. “They deserve not just our condolences, but our action.”

123...17Page 1 of 17

Maple News Wire

Maple News Wire is an independent Canada-based digital news platform committed to delivering accurate, timely, and impartial reporting across a wide spectrum of topics.

Latest

Best Neighborhoods in Vancouver for Foodies and Coffee Lover

Blog 0
Nestled between ocean and mountains, Vancouver's multicultural vibe has...

Hidden Gems of Vancouver: Beyond Stanley Park & Gastown

Blog 0
If you’re the type who likes to skip the...

Exploring the Soul of Surrey BC: Where Stories Meet Streets

Blog 0
Exploring the Soul of Surrey BC means diving into...

Popular

🇨🇦 Canada Federal Election 2025: Latest Updates, Seat Projections, and the Unexpected Impact of Donald Trump

0
As Canadians head to the polls in one of...

B.C. Lumber Crisis in Carney–Eby Meeting

Canadian Cities 0
With U.S. tariffs threatening to axe B.C.’s softwood lumber...

Jagmeet Singh Fights to Hold Ground in B.C. as NDP Faces Steep Climb in the Polls

Canadian Cities 0
With support slipping and endorsements crossing party lines, the...

Sitemap

© 2025 Maple News Wire. All Rights Reserved. Canada’s independent voice for factual news and public interest stories.