RAVI Parmar and Joan Phillip were sworn into the B.C. Legislature on Friday as the new BC New Democrat MLAs for Langford-Juan de Fuca and Vancouver-Mount Pleasant following their victories in the provincial by-elections held June 24.

The two new MLAs took their oath of office and joined the largest BC NDP caucus ever elected: 57 MLAs strong.

“Joan and Ravi were sent to Victoria by voters because they are community champions who put the interests of the people they serve first, every single time,” said Premier David Eby. “I can’t wait to see these two talented new MLAs jump into their important new roles and deliver for community members and the province on more affordable housing, safe communities, high quality healthcare and a strong and clean economy that supports people.”

“Vancouver-Mount Pleasant is a very special community and I’m honoured to be trusted by my constituents with the great responsibility of representing their needs in the legislature,” said Phillip. “As a grandmother of 15 grandchildren and 5 children, I’m driven to make life better for people today and for the future generations who are depending on us.”

“Being sworn in today as MLA for Langford-Juan de Fuca is an honour and privilege, and I am looking forward to continuing my work for our community in this new role,” said Parmar. “Alongside Premier Eby, I’m hitting the ground running to work hard and deliver for the people of Langford, Highlands, Sooke, the Juan de Fuca, and everywhere in between, and make life better for British Columbians.”

At age 28, Parmar will now be the youngest MLA currently sitting in the legislature. Phillip becomes the first ever Indigenous grandmother to be elected in British Columbia. Parmar and Phillip join one of the most diverse caucuses in the country, which reflects the people across British Columbia.

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