Opposition slams Eby government over record deficit and rising debt

British Columbia’s Official Opposition is accusing Premier David Eby’s government of misplaced priorities after reports surfaced that taxpayer dollars were spent on gift cards and near-cash awards for public servants — criticism that comes as the province posts a record $13.3-billion deficit.

The Opposition pointed to a Global News report alleging the government spent tens of thousands of taxpayer dollars on gift cards for public servants, including some earning more than $100,000 annually.

When questioned, Premier David Eby defended the spending, saying some public servants are “taking below average pay for their qualification” and deserve recognition.

Interim Opposition Leader Trevor Halford said the reported spending sends the wrong signal as families and businesses face rising costs.

“At a time when families are losing individualized autism funding, and seniors are being told there’s no money, this government is handing out taxpayer-funded gift cards to six-figure public employees,” Halford said. “Governing is about choices. British Columbians are struggling to pay their bills. Small businesses are fighting to survive. And David Eby thinks the priority is Walmart gift cards paid for by taxpayers.”

Finance critic Peter Milobar tied the issue directly to the province’s fiscal outlook.

“If these are unprecedented financial times, why are taxpayers footing the bill for government gift cards?” Milobar said. “Eby’s NDP government says it cannot afford promised grocery rebates. But it can always afford perks for public employees. This is government hypocrisy at its worst.”

The political clash comes as Budget 2026 projects a $13.3-billion deficit for 2026-27, followed by shortfalls of $12.2 billion in 2027-28 and $11.4 billion in 2028-29. The fiscal plan does not project a return to balance within the three-year window.

Taxpayer-supported debt is forecast to climb to $189 billion by 2028-29, with the debt-to-GDP ratio rising to 37.4 per cent.

Finance Minister Brenda Bailey said the government is making careful choices in “uncertain economic times,” arguing that new revenue measures are needed to safeguard core services while growing the economy.