Fraser-Nicola MLA Jackie Tegart slams Provincial Government for abandoning Lytton, Merritt and Cache Creek

NICOLA VALLEY — Fraser-Nicola MLA Jackie Tegart feels the provincial government has abandoned the Nicola Valley and nearby communities.

Lytton is still recovering from fire damage that wiped out most of the city.

The town has had their patience tested when it comes to rebuilding as the process has been much slower than forecasted. Merritt and Cache Creek are also still recovering years later from floods that have left them scrambling for any type of financial support.

Tegart mentions housing affordability and grocery costs skyrocketing and the need for a response or support.

Lytton Protest | Q101 News

With the world getting more and more expensive there is an even higher need for immediate relief.

She addressed the current health care system in B.C, “The words that come to mind when it comes to health care in this province are Chaos and Crisis.”

She mentioned the continuous hospital closures and the fact that Merritt has had multiple protests to try and get some sort of response. So far there has been no consistent plan in place to address the closures.

“My people are tired and disappointed, and they are looking for help from this very budget.”

Councillors Protest Closure | Zach Amin Photography

Jackie Tegart says “To say I am disappointed is an understatement!”

“Housing, food and fuel are all unaffordable, the healthcare system is in chaos, and disaster management is not helping the people of Lytton, Merritt or Cache Creek who were impacted by fire, floods and mudslides.”

“This is not the British Columbia we were promised. We need and deserve a government that can provide leadership, understanding, and a long term vision to address these issues.”

“The people of B.C. are losing faith.”

You can watch Jackie Tegart’s full speech below.

VIDEO: Tegart slams NDP budget for abandoning Lytton, March 4, 2024