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“I am a Canadian, free to speak without fear, free to worship in my own way, free to stand for what I think right, free to oppose what I believe wrong, or free to choose those who shall govern my country. This heritage of freedom I pledge to uphold for myself and all mankind.” ~~ John G. Diefenbaker

Eby’s NDP Continues to Fail Small Businesses with $10.5 Million Rebate Fund Flop


Gavin Dew, Official Opposition Critic for Jobs, Economic Development, and Innovation, has released the following statement regarding the January 31, 2025 expiration of the Securing Small Business Rebate program:
 
“The Securing Small Business Rebate program was a half-baked PR stunt from day one—big promises, no plan, zero delivery. It took way too long to roll out, and even then, it was poorly promoted and clearly designed by a government that has no idea how business works."
 
“Small business owners across BC are telling us the same thing: they didn’t even know this program existed, and if they did the criteria were so onerous that the juice wasn't worth the squeeze. That’s not a support plan—that’s a government playing hide-and-seek with funds that were supposed to help struggling entrepreneurs.”
 
“This government has perfected the art of taxing small businesses to death, tossing them breadcrumbs, and then demanding a standing ovation under the threat of retribution. Meanwhile, our business districts are being gutted by vandalism and crime, and the NDP’s answer is a band-aid solution that doesn’t even stick.”
 
“Let’s not forget, Small Business BC—a critical lifeline for entrepreneurs—was left to declare bankruptcy under this government’s direct oversight. That’s not just a failure; it’s a disaster for the tens of thousands small businesses that are struggling to survive David Eby's economic malaise.
 
We need real answers, not another photo op:
  • Why did it take so long to roll out this program?

  • How much of the $10.5 million has actually reached businesses

  • What happens to the unspent funds when this program expires in 9 days?

  • Why didn't government fix this clunky program in response to feedback?

“Vandalism and crime won’t disappear on February 1, and neither will the challenges small businesses face. The NDP’s legacy is clear: more taxes, more regulation, and more neglect. British Columbia’s entrepreneurs are tired of being used as props in a PR exercise. They deserve real leadership and real action, not more window dressing on broken windows.”, Dew concluded.

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