Commentary
The late great columnist Allan Fotheringham referred to British Columbia as Lotus Land, partly because of our reputation of being a tad out of touch with reality. Despite this well-deserved stereotype, the current election campaign in Canada’s westernmost province is being fought over the thoroughly practical issues of affordability and quality of life.
According to a new Ipsos poll, the top three issues for B.C. voters are the cost of living, health care, and housing. This list is exactly the same (even in the same order) for supporters of the NDP, Conservatives, and Greens.
Housing affordability in particular has become such a major concern that many B.C. residents say they are thinking of heading for greener pastures. According to an Angus Reid poll released in June, one in three B.C. residents—and half of those aged 18 to 34—are seriously considering leaving the province because of the cost of housing….