Weaver calls NDP toll decision ‘reckless’
Posted August 25, 2017 11:52 am.
Last Updated August 25, 2017 3:17 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – Though the Greens and NDP are working together to form government in BC, don’t expect kind words from Andrew Weaver about the decision to eliminate bridge tolls in Metro Vancouver.
“It’s unfortunate that the government has decided to proceed with this reckless policy,” says Weaver.
“Everything’s wrong about this announcement. It’s basically pandering to a couple of seats south of the Fraser and in the Valley. And frankly, the rest of British Columbia’s paying for this.”
He argues taking away the tolls doesn’t help the problem of paying for the bridges.
“It is disappointing that the first major measure that this government has taken to make life more affordable for British Columbians will add billions of dollars to taxpayer-supported debt. Moreover, making such a massive addition to our debt risks raising interest on all debt, which ultimately prevents government from being able to invest more in important social programs.”
Weaver believes the tolls were useful and among the best ways to pay for major projects.
“Tolls are an excellent policy tool to manage transport demand. Transport demand management reduces pollution and emissions, alleviates congestion and helps pay for costly infrastructure.”
Weaver says while negotiating with the NDP to form government, the two agreed to work with the Mayor’s Council to work out a long term solution for projects like this.
