DUNCAN - Interim Conservative Leader Lorne Doerkson’s platform makes it clear why he’s been hiding it: it would mean cuts to healthcare and infrastructure projects, putting healthcare services in the Cowichan Valley on the chopping block.

“The Cowichan Valley needs continued investment in healthcare and the services people rely on, like the BC NDP’s commitment to a new Urgent and Primary Care Centre in the valley where people can get same-day care," said Debra Toporowski, BC NDP candidate for Cowichan Valley. "The BC Conservatives’ plan puts projects and services at risk in our region, when we should be building on progress and improving access to care."

The Conservative platform says currently planned infrastructure spending under the BC NDP is too high and promises a review of infrastructure spending, while setting no targets of their own – a sure sign of hidden cuts and project cancellations to come. The BC NDP’s planned infrastructure investments include clinics, hospitals, schools and transportation projects across the province.

The Conservative platform also includes a backdoor healthcare cut to a part of the budget that funds surgeries and services at clinics, hospitals and long-term care homes. Conservative cuts to healthcare spending would mean fewer doctors and nurses and longer wait times for British Columbians.

“The last time conservative politicians were in charge, the infrastructure needs of our province were ignored. The former BC Liberal government left B.C. with a huge infrastructure deficit,” said Toporowski. “We need to keep making progress on infrastructure and health care, and we can’t afford to turn back now.”

The BC NDP believes in investing in the services and community projects that make life better for people across B.C. That means strengthening health care, creating good jobs, and building the infrastructure and services our communities need to thrive.