New NDP caucus chair and Powell River-Sunshine Coast MLA Nicholas Simons is looking forward to his role with provincial government led by premier David Eby.
“I’m looking forward to taking on this important new role and pulling the entire team together so we can all continue our work, taking on the issues that are important to people,” stated Simons in a media release from the BC government caucus.
In an interview with the Peak at an open house with North Island-Powell River MP Rachel Blaney on December 19, Simons said the just-concluded British Columbia legislative session was very busy.
“This year has been a thrill, really,” said Simons. “I enjoyed so much being the minister [of social development and poverty reduction] and getting some initiatives started, putting in place programs and expanding programs. It has just been a pleasure.
“I’m looking forward to what the future holds. I’m now going to be the caucus chair for the party and I think that’s an important role. It ensures that leadership hears from all members of the government caucus.”
He said that would include members without a ministerial appointment, those who may be parliamentary secretaries, or chairs of committees and such.
“I take that role very seriously to ensure the voices of all MLAs in the party are heard, and that we have a good influence on public policy,” added Simons.
He said he enjoys working with a diverse group of people and that there is a responsive government in place.
“It’s fun being part of that team,” said Simons. “In January, things will start to firm up and we’ll be getting ready for the budget in February.”
Simons said the winter session will be 11 weeks in duration and it’s not long before he’ll be back in Victoria debating new legislation and passing the budget. Eby has identified the priorities of the government and the ones he believes British Columbians have as well, he added.
“Everybody knows we need to continue to build housing,” said Simons. “People need to have places to live. That’s how we can ensure we have a healthy community. The work is already well underway in that regard but there is catching up to do. I think the ambitious agenda is going to serve the people.”
Simons said the government will continue to work to reduce costs for British Columbians, such as child care, rebates and capping car insurance costs.
“Those are all part of the solution and we’ll just continue to find ways of helping families and individuals through tougher times,” he added. “Everything we do we have to do together.”
Simons was appointed BC’s minister of social development and poverty reduction by former premier John Horgan after the 2020 general election. In addition to his responsibilities as minister, Simons was vice-chair of the cabinet committee on social initiatives.
He lost his ministerial post when the new premier named his new cabinet on December 7. Sheila Malcolmson, who was previously minister for mental health and addictions, replaced Simons. She represents the constituency of Nanaimo.
Simons was first elected MLA for Powell River-Sunshine Coast in 2005 and was re-elected in 2009, 2013, 2017 and 2020.
