ACCORDING to Finance Minister Brenda Bailey, “we are in unprecedented financial times,” but David Eby’s NDP government is still spending tens of thousands of taxpayer dollars on gift cards and near-cash awards for government employees, note the BC Conservatives.

According to a report by Global News, the government has spent tens of thousands of taxpayer dollars on gift cards for public servants, including some earning well over $100,000 per year. When confronted, Eby defended the spending, claiming these employees are “taking below average pay for their qualification” and deserve the rewards.

The Official Opposition is calling on the NDP government to immediately end the taxpayer-funded gift card program and provide a full public accounting of all related spending.

“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,” said B.C. Conservative Interim Leader Trevor Halford on Wednesday. “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.”

“If these are unprecedented financial times, why are taxpayers footing the bill for government gift cards?” said B.C. Conservative Critic for Finance Peter Milobar. “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.”