We're pleased to see the strata insurance crisis a topic of debate and discussion in the legislature.
For those of you who may have missed democracy in action, here are the links for today's session where the second reading passed.
Thanks to all of you reaching out to your elected officials about your strata insurance stories. Many of these stories were part of the dialogue from the BC Liberals. These examples helped to make this situation real for those decision makers who still don't quite grasp the reality facing strata owners and housing affordability.
As you know, we have communicated our disappointment in this version of Bill 14 as it doesn't allocate responsibility, risk, liability and costs in a shared, ethical or sustainable way. We also feel the current government is still not being advised in a balanced way to help strata owners. This statement by Minister Robinson demonstrates this:
"Already these proposed changes are being met with support from those that are shouldering the burden the most. We've heard from Tony Gioventu of the Condominium Home Owners Association. He said recently of this legislation that it's a great start for condo owners. In his words, "I think governments have approached this the right way, because it bought time to be able to look at the regulations, have consultation, work with all of the industry partners, work with the public and consumers." '
Bought time?! At least they are being honest. This was an exercise in buying time. Sadly, it's buying time for the insurance industry to continue to profit off an unfair system where strata owners are held hostage with no choice but to pay outrageous prices for insurance and accept huge potential liability. Strata owners need financial and regulatory solutions now.
We are grateful the BC Liberals and BC Greens are speaking up with the real details. They are asking the questions the NDP should be asking and offering solutions that should be part of this initial Bill.
We hope they will keep at it. Complex issues (as the strata insurance crisis is repeatedly referred to as) needs innovation, leadership, sustainable solutions and should not create more challenges for the people the legislation is trying to help.
Morning session (11:35am)
https://www.leg.bc.ca/documents-data/debate-transcripts/41st-parliament/5th-session/20200714am-House-Blues
Afternoon session:
https://www.leg.bc.ca/documents-data/debate-transcripts/41st-parliament/5th-session/20200714pm-House-Blues