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By Kamloops-North Thompson MLA Peter Milobar

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SOUND OFF: More must be done to help people and businesses through the pandemic

Apr 16, 2020 | 4:41 PM

AS BRITISH COLUMBIA and the rest of the world settle into what is most likely the new reality for the foreseeable future, I have been engaging with constituents and stakeholders within my riding to help answer any questions about what government is doing to offer relief in these trying times. Although I commend the current actions of our provincial and federal governments to assist struggling British Columbians, much more must be done to help people and businesses weather the storm that is COVID-19.

Many British Columbians have lost their jobs or a level of income due to COVID-19 but are still faced with their monthly expenses. One of the top requests I’ve heard is for government to offer some sort of relief on their vehicle insurance. Even before the outbreak of COVID-19, B.C. drivers were paying some of the highest insurance premiums in North America. Under the current circumstances, for many, the current rates are simply unsustainable.

Insurance companies across North America recently announced they are giving over $600 million back to drivers, but no such relief has yet been offered here in British Columbia. Commuters are now working from home or have reduced their travel to only essential trips, they are driving significantly less, so many drivers are understandably asking why — if they are driving 80 per cent less — are they still paying full premiums?

Insurance is not the only area where our governments and institutions must do more. Unfortunately, COVID-19 will only ask more from B.C. families and businesses as the weeks go on. Our government must actively analyze and adjust its supports so we can ensure our province offers the best possible relief to British Columbians where they are being hurt the most.

Small businesses, which were already struggling against rising taxes and red tape are being hit especially hard by the financial strains of COVID-19. Kamloops’s independent business community plays a key role in our economy and character as a city and no one wants to see these businesses go under.

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Although the provincial and federal governments have offered forms of relief through deferred taxes, this will do little to save our businesses if their current expenses are simply kicked down the road. I have heard from many business owners that they will not make it through the restrictions unless more is done. Government needs to work closely with our local businesses and organizations to learn what supports they need to not only survive through the COVID-19 pandemic, but to also have the opportunity for a healthy recovery once restrictions are lifted.

We as a community must offer our support to local businesses any way we can, but this is a time when we must put politics aside and all work together to help those who need it most. A single point-of-contact portal is now available for all the info small businesses may need to help navigate the challenges of COVID-19. This can be found at https://covid.smallbusinessbc.ca/ and I encourage you all to visit it.

The people of Kamloops are resilient and with the right supports, we will all get through this.

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Editor’s Note: This opinion piece reflects the views of its author, and does not necessarily represent the views of CFJC Today or the Jim Pattison Broadcast Group.