As November’s heavy rains continue to cause disruptions on BC highways, a group of Island transportation advocates are renewing calls to bring back rail service as an alternative route over the Malahat.
 
Highway 1 was closed after the Nov. 15 atmospheric river brought record rainfall that caused mudslides on the Malahat. The highway closure contributed to supply shortages in Greater Victoria.
 
The recent South Island Transportation Study found that bringing back rail service would be too expensive, but their numbers are contested by the Island Corridor Foundation.
 
The Chamber has long advocated for better transportation planning in Greater Victoria. If a rail service is feasible, it’s worth investing in the Island’s infrastructure so we can avoid future disruptions to the supply chain.

The province has extended fuel rationing requirements for non-essential vehicles until Dec. 14. The limit does not apply to essential vehicles, which include commercial transport trucks, home care workers and refrigerated trucks.
 
Rationing is required due to the shutdown of the Trans Mountain pipeline because of intense flooding in southern BC. The pipeline, which supplies most of the fuel used on Vancouver Island, is expected to be restarted later this week.

The provincial government has settled on mandating five paid sick days for workers in BC, starting Jan. 1. The announcement was made today after several rounds of consultation were held this year.

“Chamber members have been clear that no one wants sick employees in the workplace,” Chamber CEO Bruce Williams says. “We think five days is much more acceptable than 10 days, and that five days fits with what many businesses are already offering.”

The new regulations apply to workers covered by BC’s Employment Standards Act, including part-time employees. The permanent rules replace temporary measures introduced in May.

When a flight from Seattle touches down next Tuesday at Victoria International Airport, it will mark another milestone in our economic recovery. The plane will be the first with international passengers since the start of the pandemic in 2020.

For the latest requirements for travellers, make sure to check for current updates from the federal government.

Supporting your neighbours starts with thinking locally.

“In an effort to help people choose to shop at Greater Victoria retailers this holiday season, The Chamber is putting our money where our mouth is and paying the cost of shipping,” Chamber CEO Bruce Williams says. “We all benefit from a strong regional economy and it’s up to each of us to do our part to help with the ongoing recovery.”

Effective immediately, the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce is encouraging holiday shoppers to choose local. The Chamber will cover the cost of shipping for items purchased from Chamber businesses and delivered by proud Chamber Courier partners.

The last two years have been challenging for retailers, but the forecast is for Canadians to spend more this holiday season. The Retail Council of Canada recently released a survey that shows people are feeling more confident with their finances this year.

Buying online from local retailers is also a good way to support our economic recovery and conserve a little gas by letting someone else do the delivery.

For more information on The Chamber’s Shop #ChamberLocalVicBC campaign, visit our website at victoriachamber.ca and make sure to follow us on social media.

If your business is interested in taking part in this initiative, please email members@victoriachamber.ca right away.

Media Coverage: Shop #ChamberLocalVicBC

• CHEK: Retailer offers tips to make sure your holiday gifts aren’t affected by supply chain disruptions
• Times Colonist: Greater Victoria chamber is paying for free local delivery for purchases from its members
• Island Social Trends: Victoria Chamber paying courier fees to support local retailers
• Business Examiner: V