[VICTORIA, B.C.] – With public health care under pressure across the country, B.C.’s Budget 2026 protects frontline health care services in British Columbia.
The Hospital Employees’ Union (HEU) says government’s ongoing financial commitment is critical at a time when the health care system continues to face unprecedented demand from a growing and aging population.
“Public health care matters to everyone in B.C.,” says Lynn Bueckert, HEU secretary-business manager.
“During tough economic times, it’s more important than ever to invest in the public services our communities rely on. This Budget recognizes the need to protect and maintain critical health care services.”
The B.C. Budget also recognizes a recent Memorandum of Agreement negotiated under the Facilities Bargaining Association collective agreement, which will support 5,000 seniors' care workers with fair wages, benefits, and protections.
“This agreement supports long-term care and assisted living workers in moving to public sector wages, benefits and working conditions,” said Bueckert. “That means more stability in the workforce and more consistent care for seniors and families.”
Budget 2026 also announced adjustments to the timing and delivery of previously announced new public long-term care facilities and the Burnaby Hospital redevelopment project.
“In the coming years, we need an ambitious capital plan to build public and non-profit care homes,” said Bueckert. “We hope government will revisit these timelines as the economy stabilizes, because our communities urgently need these investments.”
The HEU represents 60,000 health care workers in British Columbia.