British Columbia Premier David Eby faced a barrage of criticism from business leaders during a breakfast meeting, as they voiced their concerns over his government's budget. The budget, which forecasts a $13.1 billion deficit and includes various tax hikes, has left the business community perplexed. Bridgitte Anderson, president and CEO of the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade, expressed hope that Premier Eby would take note of the 'concerns and anxiety' of the business community. She highlighted the expansion of the provincial sales tax to some professional services as a major issue, arguing that it will add costs to small businesses, major projects, and the delivery of housing. The business community is struggling to understand how the province plans to bring the deficit back on a 'sustainable path' when it is projected to rise by nearly $4 billion next year. Premier Eby, however, defended his government's approach, citing the 'massive infrastructure debt' inherited and the investments being made in schools, hospitals, and roads. He believes that growing the economy is the key to getting the deficit under control, and predicts 'significant momentum' as major projects get underway and federal money boosts defence spending in B.C. Anderson told the premier that the business community is 'not on the same page' as his government, but Eby welcomed the 'frank and tough exchange' as the only way to move forward. The board gave the budget a 'D' rating, leaving Premier Eby with a challenging task of addressing the concerns of the business community while also striving to achieve his government's goals.
