John Rustad, Leader of the Conservative Party of British Columbia, is slamming David Eby and the NDP government for putting foreign newcomers ahead of hard-working British Columbians when it comes to healthcare.
“It’s absolutely unacceptable that David Eby’s Minister is musing about waiving the MSP wait period for newcomers who haven’t lived or paid taxes in BC,” said Rustad. “British Columbians have built this healthcare system through their hard work and tax dollars, yet Eby seems eager to let foreigners cut the line while families here are waiting for care.”
Under the current system, newcomers to British Columbia must wait three months before accessing the Medical Services Plan (MSP) — a policy that ensures those who benefit from our healthcare system are also contributing to it. However, recent comments from Eby’s government suggest they are considering waiving this period, an idea Rustad says is both irresponsible and unfair.
“Eby’s priorities are all wrong. While hospitals are overcrowded and British Columbians are waiting in pain for surgeries, his government wants to open the door to free healthcare for people who haven’t contributed a dime to the system,” Rustad continued. “If you’re not living here and paying taxes here, you shouldn’t be benefiting from the system. Period.”
The Conservative Party of British Columbia is committed to a “British Columbians First” approach to healthcare. This means:
- Protecting access for BC residents who work, live, and pay taxes in the province.
- Closing loopholes that allow non-residents to exploit BC’s healthcare system.
- Expanding services to reduce wait times and ensure timely care for British Columbians.
“David Eby’s reckless approach to healthcare is yet another example of his government’s complete disregard for the people who call this province home,” Rustad concluded. “The Conservative Party of British Columbia is standing up for British Columbians and their families—because they deserve a government that puts them first.”
-30-
For more information, please contact conservative.caucus@leg.bc.ca.