Your trusted source for local North Vancouver, BC news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
British Columbia is tightening legislation to improve the recovery of healthcare costs incurred due to negligence. The proposed amendments to the Health Care Costs Recovery Act aim to close existing gaps that hinder cost recovery, ensuring that taxpayers are not left bearing the financial burden of wrongdoers. The changes include extending claim periods and enhancing disclosure requirements for insurers.
The University of British Columbia (UBC) recently inaugurated the Gordon B. Shrum Building, a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to biomedical engineering. This $139.4 million project aims to enhance research and training in the life sciences sector, offering specialized labs and collaborative spaces for students and researchers. Designed by Patkau Architects, the building honors Gordon B. Shrum’s philanthropic legacy and is expected to significantly impact health innovation in British Columbia.
Premier David Eby of British Columbia met with Prime Minister Mark Carney to discuss significant issues impacting the province, including the trade dispute over softwood lumber and the need for enhanced infrastructure. Eby emphasized the importance of a cooperative approach among provinces and the federal government to address these challenges and support the forestry sector. The meeting underscored B.C.'s pivotal role in Canada's economy and the necessity for strategic housing and transportation solutions.
The article announces an upcoming event organized by the Ministry of Housing and Municipal Affairs, scheduled for April 4, 2025, in North Vancouver. This event, part of the Historic Site and Landmark Tours, aims to engage the community and shed light on local housing initiatives. With a focus on ECHO Housing, the event highlights the government's commitment to addressing housing needs in the region.
The British Columbia government has announced the cancellation of the consumer carbon tax, effective April 1, 2025, as part of a legislative shift aimed at reducing costs for residents. Premier David Eby emphasized the importance of uniting on climate action while ensuring affordability, stating that the tax's divisiveness has become a distraction. The move is projected to save British Columbians significant amounts on fuel and heating costs, although it will also lead to the cancellation of the climate action tax credit.
Dr. Bonnie Henry, the provincial health officer of British Columbia, has officially declared the end of the 2024-25 respiratory illness season, citing decreasing levels of respiratory illnesses such as influenza, RSV, and COVID-19. With this announcement, additional health measures in healthcare settings will no longer be required, although certain precautions remain in place. The public is encouraged to continue practicing healthy habits to prevent illness spread.
Starting April 8, 2025, free COVID-19 vaccines will be available in British Columbia, prioritizing individuals at higher risk of severe illness. Health officials are also urging residents to check their measles immunization status due to a rise in cases linked to travel. The spring vaccination program aims to bolster immunity as respiratory illnesses continue to circulate.
The article announces the final recipients of The King Charles III Coronation Medal, awarded by the Government of British Columbia. A total of 537 individuals were recognized for their leadership and achievements, with nominations primarily coming from the B.C. Public Service. The medal commemorates the coronation of King Charles III, which took place on May 6, 2023.
Drivers in the area should prepare for nighttime closures on Highway 1 eastbound near the 264th Street interchange on March 28, 2025, as crews remove an overhead sign. The closures will occur between midnight and 4:30 a.m., with full stoppages lasting 20 minutes at a time. Traffic will be rerouted, and updates can be found at DriveBC.
The Nicola Valley Institute of Technology (NVIT) in Merritt is set to expand its on-campus housing and childcare facilities with the construction of a new family housing complex, specifically designed for Indigenous families. This initiative, backed by a $19.6 million investment from the Province, aims to provide stable homes for students and their families, promoting educational success and community engagement. The project is part of a broader effort to enhance student housing across British Columbia.