David Eby will lead the BC NDP back to the Legislature with a slim 47 seat majority after the official count was conducted by Elections BC on Monday. (BC Government)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

slimmest of victories

‘Opportunity for us to do better:’ Eby invited to form government after narrow majority win

Oct 29, 2024 | 12:08 PM

VICTORIA — BC NDP leader David Eby is promising a rethink of party strategy after cementing a slim majority.

The official count from Elections BC was completed Monday, Oct. 28 and confirmed Eby and the BC NDP would hold a slim 47-seat majority, the narrowest of margins possible.

While judicial recounts are still pending in at least one riding, Eby said during a media appearance on Tuesday, Oct. 29 he’s been invited by Lieutenant Governor Janet Austin to form government.

“This was a message that was sent, certainly to me, to our government, from British Columbians that they expect us to do better on a number of key files. But equally, it was the opportunity for us to do better, and I am very grateful and honoured by the opportunity presented by British Columbians to be able to do just that.”

Improving delivery of healthcare, addressing cost of living and creating a safer environment were among some of the top priorities for the NDP moving forward.

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Eby said repeatedly he’s committed to ensuring the Legislature works for all people in B.C., regardless of how they voted earlier this month.

He said conversations have begin with the BC Greens and their two elected MLA’s, and he’s open to working with any BC Conservative members too.

“Our goal is to work with any MLA that wants to make sure that this place works for British Columbians on those private priorities that I laid out. We’re meeting with the Greens today, we’re going to continue to have those conversations with them, and the invitation is open to all MLAs.”

Eby noted the Greens “did a good job” of addressing issues around bureaucracy in healthcare and bringing service delivery “closer to the communities that they serve through initiatives like their community health centres.”

He also praised the Conservatives for speaking on issues around public safety and affordability.

“There was a message from British Columbians that no one party had a monopoly on the best way forward and I think it’s going to be an important focus of us. Certainly, I know that addressing issues of public drug use, of struggling with mental health issues and severe addiction in our streets are a priority for British Columbians. I heard that loud and clear.”

Eby was unable to offer even a rough date for the start of a fall sitting of the Legislature.

He said the judicial recounts must first be undertaken, so the government remains under the timeline of Elections BC.

Among MLAs heading to Victoria once the fall sessions starts will be Nanaimo-Gabriola’s Sheila Malcolmson, Nanaimo-Lantzville’s George Anderson, Ladysmith-Oceanside’s Stephanie Higginson and Mid-Island Pacific Rim’s Josie Osborne, all members of the BC NDP.

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