Thoughts on BC Politics and More

Canadians say we’re changing how we talk to each other, split over whether it’s a good or bad thing   It’s a familiar refrain these days: Canadians are having a harder time talking to each other. A multitude of factors have contributed to what is a perceived increase in polarization between different groups, generations, and political spheres in this country, and alongside this, an increase in often intense conversations with friends, family, and other Canadians. Within this environment, the Angus Reid Institute has undertaken a wide-ranging study to better understand the perspectives of Canadians on a host of issues – from gender and identity, to race, Indigenous issues and the legacy of colonization, to free speech and precautions taken to ensure the comfort of those who don’t wish to partake in charged debates. These topics have become flashpoints in what has been labelled as the “culture wars”. Exploring these contentious grounds can help to answer some questions. Are our conve...

An Ipsos survey conducted last week found a solid majority of British Columbians support the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion project. Sponsored by Resource Works, the survey found 60 per cent of British Columbians support the project, while only 29 per cent oppose it. The survey of more than 800 people from across the province conducted June 10 – 14 asked: “ Do you personally support or oppose the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion project, which involves building a second pipeline on the existing route between Alberta and Metro Vancouver? ” “ Most British Columbians continue to support this important pipeline project, after evaluating a lot of inflammatory claims. Even the opposition of the BC NDP and local politicians in Vancouver and Burnaby doesn’t seem to have mattered that much. In the end, it is plain to a significant majority that this is a beneficial project ,” said Stewart Muir, Executive Director of Resource Works. “ British Colu...