MAPLE RIDGE - Interim Conservative Leader Lorne Doerkson’s platform makes it clear why he’s been hiding it: it would mean cuts to healthcare and infrastructure, putting services and new schools in Maple Ridge and Mission on the chopping block.

“I’m so glad to be part of the BC NDP team that recognizes our community is growing and our kids need more school spaces,” said Lisa Beare, BC NDP Candidate for Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows. “What the Conservatives are proposing – or rather hiding behind – means cuts for families in Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows.”

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 BC NDP’s plan includes:

• Mission Secondary replacement, now under construction – 250 new seats
• Addition at Blue Mountain Elementary – 120 seats

With the Conservatives’ opposition to the BC NDP’s infrastructure spending, it’s clear that projects underway are at risk of being cancelled and that they aren’t planning to follow through on their commitments to Maple Ridge and Mission residents.

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 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.