The BC Federation of Labour today released this statement on the death of former BC Premier John Horgan:
This morning, British Columbians lost one of the staunchest allies we have ever had. Few can claim anything near John Horgan’s legacy or match the difference he made in the lives of working people and everyday families in this province.
John spent his life in service to working people. He knew first-hand what it means for a family to struggle to get by, how an uncaring government can hold people back — and how a government that has workers’ backs can help.
A strong and passionate advocate in opposition, he was never content with criticizing; he wanted to make real-world change. He launched his 2017 campaign by saying working people deserve a government on their side. That was his North Star — a statement of solidarity from which he never wavered. And when he saw an opportunity after that election, he threw all his skill and energy into opening the door to that change.
The changes he and his NDP government made have transformed the lives of workers throughout BC. His government took a province at the back of the pack on nearly every measure of worker protection and social justice, and swiftly made British Columbia a national leader.
On paid sick leave, domestic and sexual violence leave, pandemic supports for working people, removing barriers to forming unions, protections for renters, investments in health care and vital social services, employment standards, workplace safety, restoring skilled trades certification, the minimum wage, Reconciliation with Indigenous peoples, human rights, slashing costs for families and making sure corporations are paying their fair share, and much more… John Horgan and his government turned BC into the very best place to work in Canada.
John Horgan has left us a proud progressive legacy to build on — and he would have been the first to say there is still so much to do. His boldness and determination to make life better for British Columbians should inspire us all to finish that work.
On behalf of working people throughout BC, we extend our deepest condolences to Ellie and his sons, and our thanks for sharing him with the people of British Columbia. Our province is a better, fairer and stronger place for all of us because of John Horgan, and we will always be grateful.