November 19,2025
RED FM News Desk
CentreBC says the NDP government’s “Look West” economic plan is full of lofty goals but lacks credible solutions, failing to address private-sector stagnation, record deficits, or the affordability pressures facing families.
“This is not a serious document,” said CentreBC spokesperson Trevor Loke. “Instead of ‘Look West,’ it’s a ‘look-over-there’ distraction, shifting responsibility onto the private sector while the government commits very little itself.”
According to CentreBC, British Columbia needs bold, practical leadership on economic and job growth, but the “Look West” plan from Premier David Eby and Jobs Minister Ravi Kahlon falls short in several areas:
• Big promises with little detail: The plan calls for $200 billion in private-sector investment and faster approvals for major projects, but gives no clear explanation of how these goals will be achieved.
• Private-sector stagnation: BC’s economic expansion continues to rely on public-sector hiring and population growth, while key private industries—such as value-added manufacturing and construction—have declined.
• Growing deficits: Record government deficits threaten future tax increases and weaken investor confidence. CentreBC says the province needs a credible path back to fiscal balance.
• Affordability overlooked: Despite repeated commitments, housing and basic living costs remain high. The plan offers no meaningful new steps to ease pressures on families, renters, or seniors. CentreBC also highlights ongoing shortages in skilled trades, project-ready workers, and clean energy capacity.
CentreBC argues that real prosperity requires collaborative, practical measures—including transparent public and private investment, stronger affordability initiatives, targeted workforce training, and responsible fiscal management. The group says the NDP’s “Look West” plan must move beyond rhetoric and respond to BC’s economic realities and opportunities.
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