British Columbia – Page 3

On Most Pressing Issues, Eby Edges Rustad in British Columbia

September 20, 2024October 6, 2024By Mario Canseco

The BC NDP leader leads on housing and health care, while the BC Conservative leader is ahead on crime and public safety.

Vancouver, BC [September 20, 2024] – As the provincial electoral campaign is about to begin, British Columbians place Premier and BC New Democratic Party (NDP) leader David Eby ahead of his rivals on the management of 10 issues, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative sample, 37% of British Columbians think Eby is best suited to deal with health care, while 28% select Conservative Party of BC leader John Rustad and 14% choose Sonia Furstenau of the BC Greens.

Eby outranks Rustad on nine other issues: housing, poverty and homelessness (35% to 29%), education (35% to 22%), creating jobs (35% to 31%), transportation projects (34% to 26%), dealing with municipal governments (34% to 28%), accountability (33% to 29%), energy (32% to 27%), child care (32% to 22%) and seniors care (32% to 25%).

Furstenau is the first choice of British Columbians to manage the environment (33%, with Eby at 26% and Rustad at 20%).

Rustad is ahead of Eby on dealing with crime and public safety (35% to 31%), while the two leaders are practically tied on the economy (Eby 34%, Rustad 33%) and managing the province’s finances (Eby 33%, Rustad 31%).

“British Columbians aged 18-to-34 prefer Rustad to Eby to be in charge of the province’s finances (34% to 27%),” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “The two leaders are practically tied among those aged 35-to-54 (33% for Eby and 32% for Rustad), while those aged 55 and over select Eby over Rustad (43% to 3%).”

When it comes to character traits, at least two-in-five British Columbians think Eby is a good speaker and communicator (58%, +6 since our previous survey conducted in June), has a vision for the future of British Columbia (51%, +7), understands the problems of BC residents (47%, +6), is a strong and decisive leader (46%, +6) and is in touch with the problems British Columbians face I their daily lives (45%, +8).

At least three-in-ten British Columbians regard Rustad as having a vision for the future (47%, +13), being a good speaker and communicator (also 47%, +14%), understanding the problems of BC residents (43%, +11), being a strong and decisive leader (42%, +12), and being in touch with the problems British Columbians face in their daily lives (40%, +11).

More than three-in-ten British Columbians believe Furstenau is honest and trustworthy (39%, +5), is a good speaker and communicator (38%, +5), understands the problems of BC residents (also 38%, +6), has a vision for the future of British Columbia (also 38%, +2) and is in touch with the problems British Columbians face in their daily lives (35%, +5).

Methodology: Results are based on an online survey conducted from September 9 to September 11, 2024, among a representative sample of 802 adults in British Columbia. The data has been statistically weighted according to Canadian census figures for age, gender and region in British Columbia. The margin of error—which measures sample variability—is +/- 3.5 percentage points, nineteen times out of twenty.

Find our data tables here and download the press release here.

Collapse of Official Opposition Tightens Election in British Columbia

September 17, 2024October 2, 2024By Mario Canseco

Women are more likely to say David Eby would make the “Best Premier”, while Eby and John Rustad are tied among men.

Vancouver, BC [September 17, 2024] – The governing BC New Democratic Party (NDP) and the Conservative Party of BC are statistically tied as British Columbia awaits the official start of the provincial electoral campaign, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative provincial sample, 44% of decided voters say they would cast a ballot for the BC NDP candidate in their riding, while 42% would support the BC Conservatives.

Since our July 2024 survey—conducted before Official Opposition leader Kevin Falcon suspended the BC United campaign—support for the two main parties has increased: by three points for the BC New Democrats and by four points for the BC Conservatives.

The BC Green Party is third across the province with 10% (=), while 3% of decided voters (+1) would back other parties or independent candidates.

This month, the BC NDP remains ahead among women (47%) and voters aged 55 and over (51%). The BC Conservatives lead among men (48%) and voters aged 35-to-54 (46%). The race is close among decided voters aged 18-to-34: 40% for the BC NDP and 39% for the BC Conservatives.

The BC NDP is in first place in Metro Vancouver (50%) and Vancouver Island (44%), while the BC Conservatives are ahead in the Fraser Valley (57%), Southern BC (51%) and Northern BC (42%).

“The disappearance of BC United has propelled the BC Conservatives to first place in Southern BC, where the race was exceptionally close in July,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “Conversely, 16% of decided voters in Northern BC are willing to support other parties or independent candidates—the highest proportion across all five regions of British Columbia.”

The BC NDP is keeping just over three-in-four voters (76%) who supported the party under John Horgan in the last provincial election. The BC Green Party is only holding on to 43% of its voters from the 2020 ballot, with 41% of them going to the BC Conservatives and 14% going to the BC NDP.

The BC Conservatives are the choice of three-in-five voters (60%) who cast ballots for BC Liberal candidates in 2020, while 29% of them are now with the BC NDP.

For the first time since we started tracking this question in May 2023, a majority of British Columbians say they would consider casting a ballot for the BC Conservatives (52%, +7) if they nominated a candidate in their constituency. The results on this question are higher for the BC New Democrats (55%, +4) and lower for the BC Greens (40%, +4).

Just over half of British Columbians (51%, +3) approve of the performance of Premier and BC New Democratic Party (NDP) leader David Eby. The rating is lower for BC Conservative leader John Rustad (48%, +9) and BC Greens leader Sonia Furstenau (41%, +6).

More than a third of British Columbians (36%) think Eby would make the Best Premier among the three party leaders, while 27% select Rustad and 12% pick Furstenau. One-in-four respondents (25%) are undecided on this question.

Among men, Eby and Rustad are tied on the “Best Premier” question (34% each), while Eby holds a substantial edge over Rustad among women (38% to 21%).

There has been little change on the issue landscape over the past two months. More than two-in-five British Columbians (41%, -1) say housing, homelessness and poverty is the most prevalent concern facing the province, followed by health care (21%, =), the economy and jobs (14%, =), crime and public safety (6%, +1) and the environment (4%, -2).

Find our data tables here and download the press release here.

British Columbians Troubled by Antisemitic Incidents in Schools

September 13, 2024October 2, 2024By Mario Canseco

Almost two thirds believe that Canadian Jews are being unfairly targeted for what is happening in Israel and Gaza.

Vancouver, BC [September 13, 2024] – British Columbians are dismayed upon learning of specific incidents of antisemitism that reportedly took place in public schools, a new Research Co. poll conducted during the first week of classes has found.

In the online survey of a representative provincial sample, more than four-in-five British Columbians (81%) are “very concerned” or “moderately concerned” about the emotional and physical safety of students in the public school system.

“More than three-in-five British Columbians (64%) are not particularly confident about sending a Jewish student to a public school upon learning about these incidents,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “The proportion rises to 68% among women and to 74% among British Columbians aged 55 and over.”

The survey described seven incidents that reportedly happened in K-12 schools in British Columbia that have been shared by educators and parents.

Sizeable majorities of British Columbians find all incidents “very troubling” or “moderately troubling”, including a teacher in a Science 9 class referring to Jews as “genocidal murderers” (81%) and a teacher using the district email list to invite teachers and families to anti-Israel rallies (78%).

More than four-in-five British Columbians (84%) think these recent events mean that more should be done to ensure that teachers in British Columbia are adequately prepared to educate students of different ethnicities and creeds.

Almost two thirds of British Columbians (65%, -1 since a similar Research Co. poll conducted in June) think Canadian Jews are being unfairly targeted for what is happening in Israel and Gaza.

More than seven-in-ten British Columbians are still concerned about four issues when thinking about the conflict in the Middle East and its impact here in Canada right now: attacks, including gunfire and firebombs, on synagogues, Jewish schools and businesses (74%, -5), protests targeting Jewish neighbourhoods and Jewish owned businesses (71%, -5), rising prejudice against Jewish Canadians (antisemitism) (also 71%, -4) and aggressive behaviour by Pro-Palestinian Protestors (also 71%, -3).

As was the case two months ago, just two-in-five British Columbians (40%, -1) believe police and governments are doing enough to combat antisemitism in their communities.

Confidence in the current ability of police and governments to combat antisemitism is highest in Northern BC (46%), followed by Metro Vancouver (44%), the Fraser Valley (38%), Vancouver Island (33%) and Southern BC (25%).

Methodology: Results are based on an online study conducted from September 5 to September 7, 2024, among 814 adults in British Columbia. The data has been statistically weighted according to Canadian census figures for age, gender and region in British Columbia. The margin of error—which measures sample variability—is +/- 3.5 percentage points, nineteen times out of twenty.

Find our data tables here and download the press release here.

Mail Vote, Crucial in 2020, Shunned by British Columbians in 2024

August 2, 2024July 27, 2024By Mario Canseco

Most of the province’s residents say they will cast their ballots on Election Day in October, up significantly from four years ago.

Vancouver, BC [August 2, 2024] – Few British Columbians are thinking of relying on mail-in ballots to vote in this year’s provincial election, a new Research Co. poll has found.

The online survey of a representative provincial sample asked British Columbians how they voted in the 2020 democratic process—which took place during the COVID-19 pandemic—and how they intend to vote in 2024.

More than half of British Columbians (52%) say they plan to cast their ballot in person on Election Day (October 19). Fewer than one third of the province’s residents (28%) voted this way in 2020.

Just over one-in-five British Columbians (21%) intend to vote in person during Advance Voting, down from 32% who chose this method four years ago.

Fewer than one-in-ten British Columbians (8%) will request a mail-in ballot in 2024, down from 28% who voted this way in the last provincial election.

Once the provincial campaign begins, more than seven-in-ten British Columbians (72%) say they will “definitely” or “probably” watch, listen or read news about the campaign in the media.

More than three-in-five British Columbians also intend to read the platforms and policy positions of political parties on their websites (68%) and review the background of candidates who are running in their constituency (65%).

Fewer British Columbias plan to attend (or watch) a debate featuring the main party leaders (52%), attend (or watch) a debate featuring candidates from their constituency (48%) or meet candidates who knock on their door (29%).

“More than a third of British Columbians aged 18-to-34 (35%) will meet candidates who knock on their door during the campaign,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “The proportions are lower among their counterparts aged 35-to-54 (29%) and aged 55 and over (25%).”

When asked which feelings they have about this year’s provincial election, more than three-in-ten British Columbians (31%) mention “indifference” while one-in-four (25%) say the ballot elicits “enthusiasm”.

Other words used by British Columbians to describe this year’s provincial democratic process are “trust” (18%), “fear” (15%), “pride” (11%), “anger” (also 11%), “joy” (10%), “sadness” (8%), “disgust” (7%) and “shame” (5%).

Voters in British Columbia who are currently supporting the governing BC New Democratic Party (NDP) mention four specific emotions: “enthusiasm” (32%), “indifference” (29%), “trust” (26%) and “fear” (13%).

Those who plan to vote for the Conservative Party of BC rely on the same emotions, but at different levels: “enthusiasm” (33%), “indifference” (25%), “fear” (22%) and “trust” (17%).

Supporters of the BC Green Party put “indifference” at the top of their list (37%), followed by “enthusiasm” (20%), “fear” (19%) and “anger” (19%).

The top four emotions for British Columbians who plan to vote for BC United are “enthusiasm” (28%), “indifference” (27%), “trust” (19%) and “joy” (18%).

Methodology: Results are based on an online study conducted from July 23 to July 25, 2024, among 801 adults in British Columbia. The data has been statistically weighted according to Canadian census figures for age, gender and region in British Columbia. The margin of error—which measures sample variability—is +/- 3.5 percentage points, nineteen times out of twenty.

Find our data tables here and download the press release here.

BC Conservatives Rise, Governing BC NDP First in British Columbia

July 30, 2024July 27, 2024By Mario Canseco

Southern BC emerges as a key battleground in this year’s provincial election, with the two main parties virtually tied.

Vancouver, BC [July 30, 2024] – Public support for the Conservative Party of BC increased markedly in the past month, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative provincial sample, 41% of decided voters (+1 since a similar Research Co. poll conducted in June 2024) would support the governing BC New Democratic Party (NDP) candidate in their constituency if the election were held today, while 38% (+5) would cast a ballot for the BC Conservatives.

The BC Green Party remains in third place with 10% (-5), followed by BC United—currently the Official Opposition in the Legislative Assembly—with 9% (-2). Other parties and independent candidates have the support of 2% of decided voters (=).

The BC NDP is ahead of the BC Conservatives in Metro Vancouver (44% to 35%) and Vancouver Island (43% to 32%), while the BC Conservatives lead the BC NDP in Northern BC (57% to 31%) and the Fraser Valley (47% to 28%).

“The race has tightened considerably in Southern BC, where the BC NDP and the BC Conservatives are virtually tied (40% to 38%)” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “In June, the BC New Democrats were 11 points ahead of the BC Conservatives in this region of British Columbia (44% to 33%).”

The BC NDP remains popular among women (47%) and decided voters aged 35-to-54 (42%) and aged 55 and over (49%). The BC Conservatives are first among men (41%) and decided voters aged 18-to-34 (45%).

Fewer than half of British Columbians (48%, -5) approve of the way Premier and BC NDP leader David Eby has handled his duties. The rating is lower for BC Conservative leader John Rustad (39%, -1), BC Greens leader Sonia Furstenau (35%, -4), and BC United leader Kevin Falcon (29%, -3).

There is a significant gender gap in the rating of one of the two main party leaders. Half of women in British Columbia (50%) approve of Eby, but just 32% feel the same way about Rustad. Among men, the two leaders post practically the same numbers (Eby 46%, Rustad 47%).

More than two-in-five British Columbians say they would consider voting for the BC New Democrats (51%, -3) or the BC Conservatives (45%, -1) if they ran a candidate in their riding. The proportions are lower for the BC Greens (36%, -2) and BC United (32%, -2).

Housing, homelessness and poverty is still the most important issue facing the province for British Columbians (42%, +2), followed by health care (21%, +1), the economy and jobs (14%, -3), the environment (6%, +1) and crime and public safety (5%, -3).

Find our data tables here and download the press release here.

Dissent Over Changing Province’s Name Rises in British Columbia

July 17, 2024July 16, 2024By Mario Canseco

Just over half of the province’s residents disagree with modifying the provincial flag to remove the Union Jack.

Vancouver, BC [July 17, 2024] – The proportion of British Columbians who are against changing the province’s name has risen over the past year and a half, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative provincial sample, 60% of British Columbians disagree with changing the name of the province to acknowledge its Indigenous heritage, up seven points since a similar Research Co. poll conducted in October 2022.

Fewer than three-in-ten British Columbians (29%, -3) think a name change is warranted, while 10% (-5) are not sure.

British Columbians aged 18-to-34 are significantly more likely to endorse changing the province’s name (52%, +2) than their counterparts aged 35-to-54 (32%, -1) and aged 55 and over (11%, -6).

The possibility of a name change is more popular in Northern BC (38%, +6), followed by Metro Vancouver (32%, +1), Vancouver Island (31%, -6), the Fraser Valley (21%, -9) and Southern BC (20%, -6).

“Most British Columbians of Indigenous descent (61%) would welcome changing the province’s name,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “The proportions are lower among residents whose heritage is South Asian (38%), European (29%) or East Asian (also 29%).”

Almost two thirds British Columbians (65%, +3) say nothing bothers them about the name “British Columbia” for the province. Fewer than one-in-five are upset about the “British” part (18%, -1), the absence of an acknowledgement to Indigenous peoples (17%, -3) and the “Columbia” part (6%, -2).

Fewer than a third of British Columbians (31%, =) agree with changing the flag of the province to remove the Union Jack, while just over half (51%, +5) disagree and 19% (-4) are not sure.

Appetite for removing the Union Jack from British Columbia’s flag is highest among residents whose origins are Indigenous (51%) and South Asian (48%) but drops among those whose heritage is East Asian (35%) and European (26%).

In 2010, the Queen Charlotte Islands were renamed as Haida Gwaii. As was the case in 2022, most British Columbians (57%, -1) believe this was the correct decision, while 23% (+3) disagree and 20% (-3) are not sure.

Agreement with this particular name change is highest among British Columbians who voted for the BC New Democratic Party (NDP) in the last provincial election (72%), followed by those who cast ballots for the BC Green Party (60%) and the BC Liberals (47%) in 2020.

Methodology: Results are based on an online study conducted from June 24 to June 26, 2024, among 801 adults in British Columbia. The data has been statistically weighted according to Canadian census figures for age, gender and region in British Columbia. The margin of error—which measures sample variability—is +/- 3.5 percentage points, nineteen times out of twenty.

Find our data tables here and download the press release here.

Concerns About Antisemitism and Protests Rise in British Columbia

July 15, 2024July 14, 2024By Mario Canseco

Practically seven-in-ten residents think dismantling the campus protests and encampments was the correct course of action.

Vancouver, BC [July 15, 2024] – Many British Columbians are dissatisfied with the way the current conflict in Israel and Gaza is affecting Jewish Canadians, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative provincial sample, two thirds of British Columbians (66%) believe that Canadian Jews are being unfairly targeted for what is happening in Israel and Gaza. This includes majorities of residents who voted for the BC New Democratic Party (NDP) (78%), the BC Liberals (77%) and the BC Green Party (55%) in the 2020 provincial election.

Concerns about specific domestic ramifications of the current conflict in Israel and Gaza have increased since a similar Research Co. survey conducted in February.

More than seven-in-ten British Columbians are currently “very concerned” or “moderately concerned” about attacks, including gunfire and firebombs, on synagogues, Jewish schools and businesses (79%), protestors targeting Jewish neighbourhoods and Jewish-owned businesses (76%, +4), rising prejudice against Jewish Canadians (antisemitism) (75%, +6) and aggressive behaviour by Pro-Palestinian Protestors (74%, +4).

“The perception of antisemitism as a significant issue does not vary greatly by political allegiance,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “Majorities of British Columbians who voted for the BC New Democratic Party (NDP) (84%), the BC Liberals (81%) and the BC Green Party (64%) in the 2020 provincial election are worried about prejudice rising against Jewish Canadians.”

More than half of British Columbians (57%) are familiar with the protests and encampments that have been happening at college and university campuses in Canada and the United States.

In some cases, protestors barricaded areas of campuses and refused to allow Jewish students and professors to enter or make their way to classes. The encampments were eventually dismantled by police and arrests were made.

Practically seven-in-ten British Columbians (69%) think universities were right to rely on the police to dismantle the protests and encampments, while only 14% believe they were wrong to do so.

Only 41% of British Columbians think police and governments are doing enough to combat antisemitism in their communities. Women (36%) are particularly skeptical of the way the situation has evolved.

Methodology: Results are based on an online study conducted from June 8 to June 10, 2024, among 1,001 adults in Canada. The data has been statistically weighted according to Canadian census figures for age, gender and region. The margin of error, which measures sample variability, is +/- 3.1 percentage points, nineteen times out of twenty.

Find our data tables here and download the press release here.

Eby is Ahead of Rivals on Character Traits in British Columbia

June 28, 2024July 4, 2024By Mario Canseco

Most of province’s residents place themselves at or near the centre of the political spectrum.

Vancouver, BC [June 28, 2024] – British Columbians hold contrasting views on the political leanings of the four party leaders contesting this year’s provincial election, a new Research Co. poll has found.

The online survey of a representative sample of British Columbians also asked about characteristics that people may find in politicians.

At least two-in-five British Columbians say Premier and BC New Democratic Party (NDP) leader David Eby is a good speaker and communicator (52%), has a vision for the future of British Columbia (44%), understands the problems of BC residents (41%), is a strong and decisive leader (40%) and is honest and trustworthy (also 40%).

At least three-in-ten British Columbians regard Conservative Party of BC leader John Rustad as having a vision for the future (34%), being a good speaker and communicator (33%), understanding the problems of BC residents (32%) and being a strong and decisive leader (30%).

More than three-in-ten British Columbians think BC Green Party leader Sonia Furstenau has a vision for the province (36%), is honest and trustworthy (34%), is a good speaker and communicator (33%), understands the problems of BC residents (32%) and generally agrees with people on the issues they care about (31%).

At least three-in-ten British Columbians believe BC United leader Kevin Falcon is a good speaker and communicator (36%), is a strong and decisive leader (34%), understands the problems of BC residents (30%) and is patronizing (also 30%).

On the political spectrum, one third of British Columbians (33%) describe themselves as centre, while 16% say they are centre right and a further 16% place themselves as centre left.

The BC NDP is regarded as centre left, left or extreme left by 51% of British Columbians. More than two-in-five of the province’s residents (43%) place the Green Party in these same three categories.

The Conservative Party of BC is seen as centre right, right or extreme right by 61% of British Columbians, BC United is placed in these same three categories by 36% of British Columbians.

The answers to this question do not vary greatly for the leaders. Almost half of British Columbians (48%) perceive Eby as centre left, left or extreme left, and 41% feel the same way about Furstenau.

Almost three-in-five British Columbians (58%) brand Rustad as centre right, right or extreme right, compared to 37% for Falcon.

“Only one-in-ten British Columbians think Eby (10%) is extreme left,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “Almost one-in-five (19%) believe Rustad is extreme right.”

Methodology: Results are based on an online study conducted from June 17 to June 19, 2024, among 800 adults in British Columbia. The data has been statistically weighted according to Canadian census figures for age, gender and region in British Columbia. The margin of error—which measures sample variability—is +/- 3.5 percentage points, nineteen times out of twenty.

Find our data tables here and download the press release here.

BC NDP Lead Narrows as British Columbians Ponder Choices

June 25, 2024July 27, 2024By Mario Canseco

Voter consideration for the Conservatives and the Greens rose since May, along with the approval ratings for their leaders.

Vancouver, BC [June 25, 2024] – The governing BC New Democratic Party (NDP) remains ahead of the Conservative Party of BC as British Columbians consider their options in this year’s provincial election, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative provincial sample, 40% of decided voters (-2 since a similar Research Co. poll conducted in May 2024) would cast a ballot for the governing BC New Democratic Party (NDP) candidate in their riding if the election were held today, while 33% (+1) would support the Conservative Party of BC.

The BC Green Party is third with 15% (+3), followed by BC United—currently the Official Opposition in the Legislative Assembly—with 11% (-1). Other parties and independent candidates are backed by 2% of decided voters (=).

“The BC NDP remains ahead of all challengers in Metro Vancouver (41%), Vancouver Island (43%) and Southern BC (44%),” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “The BC Conservatives lead in the Fraser Valley (40%) and Northern BC (53%).”

Two parties gained momentum in the voter consideration question: the BC Conservatives (46%, +4) and the BC Greens (38%, +3). The proportion of British Columbians who would consider supporting the BC NDP remains higher (54%, -1) while just over a third (34%, +1) feel the same way about BC United.

Housing, homelessness and poverty remains the most important issue for 40% of British Columbians (=). Health care is second on the list of pressing concerns with 20% (-1), followed by the economy and jobs (17%, +2), crime and public safety (8%, +3) and the environment (5%, =).

BC United’s Kevin Falcon continues to have the lowest approval rating among the four major party leaders (32%, +1). The proportions are higher for BC Greens leader Sonia Furstenau (39%, +4), BC Conservative leader John Rustad (40%, +3) and Premier and BC NDP leader David Eby (53%, -1).

Eby is also ahead on the “Best Premier” question (28%), followed by Rustad (14%), Falcon (13%) and Furstenau (11%). While more than half of BC NDP voters in the 2020 provincial ballot (54%) choose Eby, only 28% of those who voted for the BC Liberals in the same election select Falcon.

When asked which leader would be best suited to manage specific issues, Eby has significant leads on health care (30%), education (28%), the economy and jobs (26%), child care (also 26%), housing, homelessness and poverty (also 26%), accountability (25%), transportation projects (24%), managing the province’s finances (also 24%), crime and public safety (23%), energy (also 23%), creating jobs (also 23%) and seniors care (22%).

On the environment, Eby and Furstenau are tied with 23% each. Rustad posts his best numbers on crime and public safety (18%) and the economy and jobs (17%).

Find our data tables here and download the press release here.

What Do British Columbians Think About $10aDay Child Care?

May 27, 2024May 26, 2024By Mario Canseco

Practically four-in-five British Columbians agree that employers benefit from investments in child care cause more parents can go to work.

Introduction

In March 2024, the Coalition of Child Care Advocates of BC worked with Research Co.^[1] to conduct a provincial poll asking British Columbians about their views on $10aDay child care. The poll results add to the extensive input we regularly receive from over 20,000 $10aDay supporters and through outreach to and engagement in communities across the province. We also meet with government officials and carry out research and analysis – all to inform and update our $10aDay policy and funding recommendations.

The new provincial poll explores public views of $10aDay child care 6 years after the program’s launch in BC, and 5 years after our last provincial poll. To support comparisons over time, some polling questions are consistent with previous polls. Others reflect the new context (e.g. post-COVID, new federal funding, system implementation now underway) and the interest in flexible approaches to child care within the evolving $10aDay system.

Summary of Findings

British Columbians continue to strongly support $10aDay child care^[2]. Nearly 80% of British Columbians say it’s important for government to continue with its $10aDay commitments and three quarters (76%) think implementation should be moving more quickly. 75% of British Columbians also agree that flexible child care options are needed as more parents today work outside of Monday to Friday 9-5.

While only 9%^[3] of all the licensed child care spaces in BC are currently $10aDay, 20% of British Columbians report they’ve been personally touched by $10aDay child care, either directly or through someone they know. Notably, 35% of 18–34-year-olds have benefitted themselves or know someone who has.

At the same time, 84% of BC families with young children report that long waiting lists for child care are still a problem. This is not surprising as there are only enough licensed child care spaces for 23%^[4] of young children in BC. 43% of families with young children reported that they had to wait more than 6 months for child care.

Overall, 70% of British Columbians with young children say that government has made child care more affordable for their family, and 88% confirm that they would like to have access to $10aDay child care.

Highlights

The poll asked British Columbians to consider 17 $10aDay policy recommendations. While the results show that support drops slightly for older age groups, and men relative to women, overall, the recommendations were broadly supported (see charts below).

Specifically,

84% of British Columbians agree it’s important for Early Childhood Educators to earn fair wages for their important work.
81% agree that all elementary schools should provide before and after school care for the children in that school.
75% agree that Indigenous children should have access to culturally safe child care programs.
72% agree that child care should be publicly available like elementary schools.
71% agree that BC cannot create and staff more child care programs without ensuring fair compensation for Early Childhood Educators.
67% agree that, with substantial public funds being invested, government should ensure child care programs are non-profit.

Furthermore,

90% of young people (aged 18-34) think it’s important to keep building the $10aDay child care system, and 58% say this issue will be vote-determining for them in the upcoming BC election.

Among older British Columbians,
90% think it’s important for Early Childhood Educators to earn fair wages.
78% think BC’s child care system should help parents who work non-traditional schedules.
76% agree that all new child care facilities in BC should be built to be climate resilient.

$10aDay child care is a vote-determining issue for nearly half the population (45%), which is far more than the percent of the population who presently needs child care for young children.

On affordability,

85% of British Columbians – and 88% of those over 55 – agree that having children now costs a lot more than it did 40 years ago.
82% agree child care is important to support working parents.
80% agree that single parents have a better opportunity to work when there’s access to quality flexible $10aDay child care.
78% confirm that when child care is affordable and available, more mothers can work and pay taxes.

On the economic impacts of child care,

78% of British Columbians agree that employers benefit from investments in child care because more parents can go to work.
78% agree that investing in child care is beneficial to the economy.
67%of parents with recent child care experience said a parent had to remain away from work for a longer period following the end of parental leave because child care was unavailable..

These poll results confirm what we hear from families, educators, and communities across BC. Public support for $10aDay Child Care remains very strong and consistent.

When asked what they knew about $10aDay child care, one respondent summarized the general sentiment expressed throughout this provincial poll, saying “it’s been in the works for some time, and we need to get it done”.

The Coalition of Child Care Advocates of BC gratefully acknowledges the support of Employment and Social Development Canada.

[1] Methodology: Results are based on an online study conducted from March 21 to March 23, 2024, among 803 adults in British Columbia. The data has been statistically weighted according to Canadian census figures for age, gender, and region in British Columbia. The margin of error—which measures sample variability—is +/- 3.5 percentage points, nineteen times out of twenty.

In this survey, we asked questions related to child care (sometimes referred to as childcare, daycare or preschool). For the purpose of this survey, child care is defined as the caring and supervision of a child 0-12 years old that is performed by a person other than the child’s legal guardians for part of or all of a day. The care may take place in a licensed/regulated setting or in an unregulated and informal setting.

Consult the data tables here and here.

[2] See summary of 2019 survey here.

[3] Data as of March 2024, as reported by the BC Government’s child care data dashboard, accessed May 23, 2024 (calculation:13,571 $10aDay spaces / 148,383 total spaces participating in government programs). On March 28, 2024 the BC Government announced the total number of $10aDay spaces would be increasing to 15,300 in April, 2024.

[4] Calculation: 148,383 total spaces (as cited above) divided by the government-projected 2024 population of children 0-12 (accessed May 23, 2024).

Download the press release here.

A New Leader Would Not Make BC United More Competitive

May 24, 2024May 20, 2024By Mario Canseco

British Columbians react well to Christy Clark and Dianne Watts, but the party would still trail the NDP and the Conservatives.

Vancouver, BC [May 24, 2024] – The re-emergence of two well-known politicians would slightly help BC United in an election year, a new Research Co. poll has found.

The online survey of a representative provincial sample asked British Columbians how they would vote in an election with 14 different options leading BC United.

Christy Clark and Dianne Watts post the best numbers, attracting 18% of decided voters to BC United—a six-point increase from the current standing of the party under Kevin Falcon.

Clark, who served as Premier and BC Liberal leader from 2011 to 2017, would still position BC United in third place, behind the BC New Democratic Party (NDP) (35%) and the Conservative Party of BC (26%).

Under Watts, a former Mayor of Surrey and former Member of Parliament for the Conservative Party who finished second in the 2018 BC Liberal leadership race, BC United also trails the BC New Democrats (36%) and the BC Conservatives (24%).

“Just under one-in-five British Columbians who are willing to vote for the BC Conservatives (17%) would back BC United with Dianne Watts as leader,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “Watts would put BC United in second place, behind the BC NDP, among decided voters aged 55 and over (43% to 24%).”

Two other candidates are ahead of Falcon’s current numbers: Vancouver-Langara MLA Michael Lee, who finished third in the BC Liberal leadership races of 2018 and 2022 (14%) and Gavin Dew, who finished fifth in the 2022 BC Liberal leadership election (13%).

Three candidates who sought the leadership of the BC Liberals would have the same level of support commanding BC United that Falcon currently has (12%): sixth place leadership finisher in 2022 Renee Merrifield, fourth place finisher in 2011 Mike de Jong and sixth place finisher in 2018 Sam Sullivan.

Support from decided voters would be lower for BC United under seven other candidates: second place leadership finisher in 2022 Ellis Ross (11%), current Mayor of Vancouver Ken Sim (also 11%), former BC Liberal leader Andrew Wilkinson (also 11%), fourth place finisher in 2018 Todd Stone (10%), seventh place finisher in 2022 Stan Sipos (also 10%), fifth place finisher in 2022 Val Litwin (9%) and Aaron Gunn, who was disqualified from participating in the 2022 BC Liberal leadership race (also 9%).

Methodology: Results are based on an online study conducted from May 13 to May 15, 2024, among 800 adults in British Columbia. The data has been statistically weighted according to Canadian census figures for age, gender and region in British Columbia. The margin of error—which measures sample variability—is +/- 3.5 percentage points, nineteen times out of twenty.

Find our data tables here and download the press release here.

NDP First, Conservatives Rise, United Plummets in British Columbia

May 21, 2024May 20, 2024By Mario Canseco

Just over a third of British Columbians who voted for the BC Liberals in 2020 are staying with BC United in 2024.

Vancouver, BC [May 21, 2024] – Five months before voters in British Columbia take part in a provincial election, the governing BC New Democratic Party (NDP) remains ahead of the opposition Conservative Party of BC, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative provincial sample, 42% of decided voters (-3 since a similar Research Co. poll conducted in April 2024) would support the BC NDP candidate in their constituency, while 32% (+5) would cast a ballot for the BC Conservatives.

BC United—currently the official opposition in the Legislative Assembly—is tied for third place with the BC Green Party (each with 12%). Support for BC United has dropped by three points in a month, while the BC Greens have gained one point. Other parties and independent candidates are supported by 2% of decided voters (+1).

“In May 2023, a third of decided voters in British Columbia (33%) were supporting BC United,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “A year later, the proportion has fallen by 21 points.”

Only 35% of decided voters who supported the BC Liberals in the 2020 provincial election under leader Andrew Wilkinson are staying with BC United in 2024. More than two-in-five (44%) are now backing the BC Conservatives, while more than one-in-ten (12%) would cast a ballot for the BC NDP.

The BC New Democrats hold leads over the BC Conservatives in Metro Vancouver (40% to 30%) and Vancouver Island (49% to 29%). The races are closer in the Fraser Valley (NDP 40%, Conservatives 39%), Southern BC (NDP 39%, Conservatives 37%) and Northern BC (Conservatives 40%, NDP 38%).

Across the province, the BC Conservatives are ahead among decided voters aged 18-to-34 (39% to 34%). The BC New Democrats lead among decided voters aged 35-to-54 (38% to 33%) and decided voters aged 55 and over (50% to 26%).

More than two-in-five British Columbians say they would “definitely” or “probably” consider voting for the BC New Democrats (53%. -1) or the BC Conservatives (42%, +1) in the provincial election. The proportions are lower for the BC Greens (35%, -2) and BC United (33%, -4).

Two-in-five British Columbians (40%, +3) say housing, homelessness and poverty is the most important issue facing the province, followed by health care (21%, =), the economy and jobs (15%, -3), the environment (5%, -1) and crime and public safety (also 5%, =).

The approval rating for Premier and BC NDP leader David Eby stands at 54% this month (+3). The numbers are lower for BC Conservative leader John Rustad (37%, +2), BC Greens leader Sonia Furstenau (35%, -2) and BC United leader Kevin Falcon (31%, -5).

The notion of BC United and the Conservative Party of BC merging into a single party before the next provincial election is backed by 33% of British Columbians (-6). Fewer than half of decided voters currently supporting the BC Conservatives (49%, -5) or BC United (47%, -6) are on board.

Rustad is regarded as a better leader than Falcon to attract male voters (29% to 17%), voters aged 35-to-54 (25% to 22%), voters aged 55 and over (34% to 17%), voters in the Fraser Valley (27% to 19%), voters in Southern BC (23% to 20%), voters in Northern BC (30% to15%) and voters in Vancouver Island (24% to 17%) to his party.

The BC Conservative leader is also regarded as having a better chance to serve as opposition leader after the next provincial election (26% to 23%) or form the government (24% to 19%) than Falcon.

Falcon is ahead of Rustad on attracting female voters (21% to 17%) and voters in Metro Vancouver (24% to 21%) to BC United. The two leaders are tied (at 20% each) on attracting voters aged 18-to-34 to their respective parties.

Find our data tables here and download the press release here.

British Columbians Happy with FIFA World Cup in Vancouver

May 1, 2024May 2, 2024By Mario Canseco

Almost half of the province’s residents would explore a bid for Vancouver to host the Summer Olympics in 2036.

Vancouver, BC [May 1, 2024] – Public satisfaction with Vancouver being a host city during the FIFA (Soccer) 2026 Men’s World Cup has increased across British Columbia, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative provincial sample, 68% of British Columbians agree with the designation, up six points since a similar Research Co. poll conducted in November 2022.

Vancouver is one of 16 cities that will host matches during the FIFA (Soccer) 2026 Men’s World Cup, which is being held in Canada, the United States and Mexico. BC Place in Vancouver will be the venue for seven matches, including two featuring Team Canada on June 18 and June 24, 2026.

“Seven-in-ten Metro Vancouverites (70%) appear satisfied with the FIFA World Cup coming to Vancouver,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “Majorities of residents across all other regions of the province are also in favour.”

More than half of British Columbians (55%, -2) continue to endorse the decision of the provincial government to abandon the 2030 Winter Olympics bid that was being explored by Four Host First Nations—Musqueam, Squamish, Tsleil-Waututh, and Lilwat—and the municipal governments of Vancouver and Whistler.

More than half of British Columbians who voted for the BC New Democratic Party (NDP) (63%), the BC Green Party (62%) and the BC Liberals (52%) in the 2020 provincial election believe the government made the right decision on the proposed Winter Games bid.

Vancouver hosted the XXI Olympic Winter Games, from February 12 to February 28, 2010.

Almost half of British Columbians (49%, +7) think Vancouver should launch a bid to host the Summer Olympics in 2036, while 40% (-5) disagree and 11% (-1) are undecided.

A Vancouver bid for the 2036 Summer Olympics is welcomed by more than three-in-five British Columbians aged 18-to-34 (61%). Enthusiasm is lower among their counterparts aged 35-to-54 (48%) and aged 55 and over (42%).

Almost half of British Columbians (47%, +9) say they have positive views on FIFA, while a majority (53%, +12) feel the same way about the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

Methodology: Results are based on an online study conducted from April 15 to April 17, 2024, among 801 adults in British Columbia. The data has been statistically weighted according to Canadian census figures for age, gender and region in British Columbia. The margin of error—which measures sample variability—is +/- 3.5 percentage points, nineteen times out of twenty.

Find our data tables here and download the press release here.

BC New Democrats Remain Ahead of Rivals in British Columbia

April 23, 2024April 25, 2024By Mario Canseco

The Conservative Party of BC holds the upper hand against BC United and the BC Green Party among decided voters.

Vancouver, BC [April 23, 2024] – More than two-in-five decided voters would cast a ballot for the governing BC New Democratic Party (NDP) if British Columbia’s provincial election were held today, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative provincial sample, 45% of decided voters would back the BC NDP candidate in their constituency, down one point since a similar Research Co. poll conducted in January 2024.

The Conservative Party of BC Is in second place with 27% (+2), followed by BC United with 15% (-2) and the BC Green Party with 11% (=), while 1% of decided voters (-1) would support other parties or independent candidates.

The BC NDP is solidly ahead of the BC Conservatives in Vancouver Island (56%) and Metro Vancouver (47%). The races are tighter in the Fraser Valley (37% to 36%), Southern BC (35% to 32%) and Northern BC (38% to 33%).

The BC NDP is still the first choice across all three age groups in British Columbia. The BC Conservatives are more popular among voters aged 18-to-34 (34%) than among their counterparts aged 35-to-54 (29%) and aged 55 and over (22%).

Just over half of British Columbians (51%, -2) approve of the way David Eby has handled his duties as Premier and BC NDP leader. Fewer than two-in-five feel the same way about BC Greens leader Sonia Furstenau (37%, +3), BC United leader Kevin Falcon (36%, +5) and BC Conservative leader John Rustad (35%, +3).

Housing, homelessness and poverty is the most important issue facing the province for 37% of British Columbians (-2). Health care is second on the list of concerns with 21% (-1), followed by the economy and jobs (18%, +1), the environment (6%, +2) and crime and public safety (5%, =).

“A third of British Columbians aged 55 and over (34%) think health care is the most pressing issue right now,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “Those aged 18-to-34 and aged 35-to-54 are primarily concerned about housing, homelessness and poverty (42% and 40% respectively).”

Compared to January, there is no movement in the voting consideration question for the BC Conservatives, with 41% of British Columbians (=) saying they would “definitely” or “probably” consider casting a ballot for their candidates. The rating is lower for both the BC Greens (37%, +3) and BC United (also 37%, +4), and higher for the BC NDP (54%, =).

Almost half of British Columbians (48%) agree that all political parties should establish quotas to increase the number of female candidates in the provincial election. A smaller proportion (44%) would like to see quotas to increase the number of candidates from visible minorities.

More than three-in-five British Columbians (63%) believe that, when politicians show up to festivals and celebrations (such as Vaisakhi) they are just pandering for votes and not truly interested in engaging with people from different cultures and backgrounds.

Almost two thirds of British Columbians (65%) think it should be mandatory for candidates to attend at least one public debate in their constituency with the candidates from other parties—a proportion that rises to 72% among residents of Northern BC.

Just over half of British Columbians (51%) think all political parties should compel candidates to step down if they said something offensive on social media. This course of action is favoured the most by residents of Southern BC (58%), followed by those who live in Metro Vancouver (52%), the Fraser Valley (49%), Vancouver Island (also 49%) and Northern BC (45%).

Almost two-in-five British Columbians (39%, +7) would like to see a merger encompassing BC United and the Conservative Party of BC before this year’s provincial election, while 42% (-3) disagree and 20% (-3) are not sure. The creation of a merged party is backed by more than half of British Columbians who would vote for the BC Conservatives (54%) or BC United (53%) if an election took place today.

Falcon is regarded as better suited than Rustad to attract male voters (26% to 19%), female voters (20% to 17%), voters aged 18-to-34 (23% to 17%) and voters in Metro Vancouver (25% to 19%) to BC United.

Rustad is ahead of Falcon as the best leader to attract voters aged 55 and over (30% to 20%), voters in the Fraser Valley (25% to 20%) and voters in Northern BC (27% to 17%) to the BC Conservatives.

The two party leaders are virtually tied on five other categories: forming the government after this year’s election (Falcon 21%, Rustad 20%), serving as Official Opposition leader after this year’s election (Rustad 24%, Falcon 22%), attracting voters aged 35-to-54 (Rustad 24%, Falcon 22%), attracting voters in Southern BC (Rustad 22%, Falcon 21%) and attracting voters in Vancouver Island (Falcon 21%, Rustad 20%).

Find our data tables here and download the press release here.

Perception of Crime Highest in Manitoba, Lowest in Saskatchewan

April 12, 2024April 11, 2024By Mario Canseco

More than half of British Columbians and Albertans believe criminal activity has increased in the past four years.

Vancouver, BC [April 12, 2024] – Residents of Manitoba are more likely to believe that crime is on the rise in their community, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of representative samples in five Canadian provinces, 63% of Manitobans say the level of criminal activity has increased in their community over the past four years, up nine points since a similar Research Co. survey conducted in November 2020.

The proportions of residents who feel this way are lower in British Columbia (54%, -4 since 2023), Alberta (also 54%, +6 since 2020), Ontario (48%) and Saskatchewan (42%, +1 since 2020).

Fewer than one-in-four residents of Alberta (23%, -1), Saskatchewan (20%, -7), Manitoba (18%, -13), British Columbia (17%, -1) and Ontario (14%) have been victims of a crime involving the police (such as an assault or a car break-in) in their community over the past four years.

Majorities of Manitobans (54%), Albertans (also 54%) and British Columbians (51%, -1) say they fear becoming victims of a crime in their community “a great deal” or “a fair amount”. The proportions are lower in Ontario (45%) and Saskatchewan (37%).

More than seven-in-ten Ontarians (71%) say they would feel “very safe” or “moderately safe” walking alone in their own neighbourhood after dark. Majorities of respondents in Saskatchewan (65%), British Columbia (also 65%, +2), Alberta (63%) and Manitoba (57%) express the same view.

Residents of the five Canadian provinces hold differing views when asked about which factors are to blame “a great deal” for the current situation regarding crime and public safety in your community.

More than half of British Columbians (56%, -3) mention addiction and mental health issues, followed by gangs and the illegal drug trade (39%, -2), poverty and inequality (36%, +2), an inadequate court system (35%, -4) and a bad economy and unemployment (29%, +7).

Albertans also place addiction and mental health issues at the top of their list (48%), followed by gangs and the illegal drug trade (33%), an inadequate court system (also 33%), poverty and inequality (31%) and bad economy and unemployment (also 31%).

In Saskatchewan, at least two-in-five residents blame gangs and the illegal drug trade (43%) and addiction and mental health issues (40%), followed by poverty and inequality (30%), lack of values and improper education for youth (29%) and an inadequate court system (27%).

Most Manitobans (56%) blame addiction and mental health issues, followed by gangs and the illegal drug trade (44%), an inadequate court system (35%), poverty and inequality (34%), and lack of values and improper education for youth (30%).

In Ontario, addiction and mental health issues garner the most mentions (39%), followed by gangs and the illegal drug trade (35%), poverty and inequality (31%), lack of values and improper education for youth (30%) and bad economy and unemployment (29%).

“Most residents of these five Canadian provinces gravitate primarily to addiction and mental health when thinking about crime and public safety,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “In no province do we see at least three-in-ten respondents blaming insufficient policing or lack of resources to combat crime for the current situation.”

Methodology: Results are based on online surveys conducted from March 29 to March 31, 2024, among 800 adults in British Columbia, 600 adults in Alberta, 600 adults in Saskatchewan, 600 adults in Manitoba and 600 adults in Ontario. The data has been statistically weighted according to Canadian census figures for age, gender and region for each province. The margin of error – which measures sample variability – is +/- 3.5 percentage points for British Columbia and +/- 4.0 percentage points for Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Ontario, 19 times out of 20.

Find the data tables for British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Ontario, and download the press release here.

Wobbly Commitment to Net-Zero Goal in British Columbia

April 8, 2024April 8, 2024By Mario Canseco

Three-in-five residents are in favour of the initiative, but support wanes if average energy costs increase.

Vancouver, BC [April 8, 2024] – Most British Columbians believe the federal government should continue to pursue the Net-Zero goal but grow skeptical of the idea if they end up paying more for energy, a new Research Co. poll has found.

The concept of Net-Zero calls for countries to either eliminate greenhouse gas emissions or offset them, for example, through actions such as tree planting or employing technologies that can capture carbon before it is released into the air. Canada, as well as all other members of the G7, have committed to the Net-Zero goal by 2050.

In the online survey of a representative provincial sample, seven-in-ten British Columbians (70%) agree with Canada’s Net-Zero commitment, while 19% disagree and 11% are undecided.

More than half of British Columbians think governments (54%) and companies and corporations (51%) “definitely” or “probably” have a role to play in order to achieve Canada’s commitment to the Net-Zero goal by 2050. Just over a third (35%) feel the same way about individuals and consumers.

More than two thirds of British Columbians (67%) think Canada should remain committed to the Net-Zero goal by 2050 if average energy costs rise by 10%.

Just under half of British Columbians (49%) would remain committed to Net-Zero if average energy costs increase by 20%. If average energy costs were to rise by 30%, only 40% of British Columbians would remain committed to Net-Zero.

More than four-in-five British Columbians are “very concerned” or “moderately concerned” about two issues: forest fires affecting the province (84%) and energy costs for households becoming too expensive (83%).

Majorities of residents are also worried about five other issues: the effects of climate change in the world (77%), the effects of climate change in Canada (76%), forest fires affecting the community where they live (69%), energy costs for businesses becoming too expensive (68%) and energy shortages leading to measures such as rationing and rolling blackouts (64%).

More than half of British Columbians (58%, +3 since a similar Research Co. poll conducted in January 2023) support the provincial government allowing for further development of the liquefied natural gas (LNG) industry. Fewer of the province’s residents agree with directives to allow nuclear power (small modular reactors) for electricity generation (50%, +7) and ban the use of natural gas (on stoves and/or heaters) in new buildings (44%, +5).

“Support for LNG development in British Columbia is highest in the Fraser Valley (65%),” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “The proportions are lower in Southern BC (63%), Northern BC (60%), Metro Vancouver (58%) and Vancouver Island (44%).”

When asked about their perceptions on eight sources of energy, majorities of British Columbians express positive views on hydropower (80%), wind (79%), geothermal (65%) and natural gas (also 65%). The rating is lower for oil (44%), biomass (43%), nuclear (42%) and coal (24%).

Methodology: Results are based on an online study conducted on March 19 to March 21, 2024, among 800 adults in British Columbia. The data has been statistically weighted according to Canadian census figures for age, gender and region in British Columbia. The margin of error—which measures sample variability—is +/- 3.5 percentage points, nineteen times out of twenty.

Find our data tables here and download the press release here.

Four Years Later, British Columbians Assess the Pandemic

March 27, 2024March 27, 2024By Mario Canseco

More than half of residents are satisfied with the way their family, their friends and all levels of government tackled COVID-19.

Vancouver, BC [March 27, 2024] – Most British Columbians believe their elected officials did a good job in managing the public health emergency that began to affect the world four years ago, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative provincial sample, 58% of British Columbians are satisfied with the way their municipal government handled COVID-19.

Majorities of British Columbians are also satisfied with how the provincial government (52%) and the federal government (51%) managed the pandemic. The rating is significantly lower for the official opposition in both Victoria (36%) and Ottawa (35%).

More than seven-in-ten British Columbians are satisfied with the way their family (78%) and their friends (74%) handled COVID-19. At least half feel the same way about television news (55%), radio news (52%) and newspapers (50%).

Almost half of British Columbians (49%) are satisfied with how non-governmental associations managed the pandemic. The rating is lower for trade associations (39%) and unions (also 39%).

More than half of British Columbians (52%) believe COVID-19 is “definitely” or “probably” still a threat now—a proportion that rises to 61% among those aged 55 and over.

Three-in-five British Columbians (60%, -2 since a similar Research Co. poll conducted in February 2023) believe we are in a different moment and there is no need for additional public health measures related to COVID-19.

Just over one-in-four of the province’s residents (26%, +8) think we should continue to have strict public health measures in place to stop the spread of COVID-19, while 7% (-2) say COVID-19 was a hoax and we never should have altered our lives.

Respondents to this survey were asked to select their five most trusted sources of information in the event a new public health emergency were to occur this month. Almost three-in-five (58%) select their family doctor, while half mention BC Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry (50%) and the BC Centre for Disease Control (also 50%).

The only other entities listed that are included by at least one-in-four British Columbians are medical staff at health clinics (36%), the provincial government (33%), the federal government (31%), Canada’s Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Theresa Tam (also 31%) and television news (26%).

British Columbians are divided when asked if they expect to experience “mask mandates” in the near future. Just over two-in-five of the province’s residents (41%) think making it mandatory to wear a mask or face covering when entering an indoor premise is a possibility in the next four years, while almost half (48%) disagree with this assessment.

“There are significant regional differences when British Columbians ponder masking,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “While more than two-in-five residents of Northern BC (48%), Metro Vancouver (44%) and Vancouver Island (42%) think the return of this policy is possible, the proportions are lower in the Fraser Valley (38%) and Southern BC (28%).”

Majorities of British Columbians reject the notion of three other guidelines being reimplemented in the next four years: capacity restrictions for worship services, concerts and sporting events (54%), “proof of vaccination” certificates to access specific venues and locations (55%) and a ban on travel to other Canadian provinces (68%).

Methodology: Results are based on an online study conducted on March 4 to March 6, 2024, among 800 adults in British Columbia. The data has been statistically weighted according to Canadian census figures for age, gender and region in British Columbia. The margin of error—which measures sample variability—is +/- 3.5 percentage points, nineteen times out of twenty.

Find our data tables here and download the press release here.

Making Ends Meet a Feat for Almost Half of British Columbians

March 13, 2024March 11, 2024By Mario Canseco

Majorities of residents, although at a lower rate than in late 2022, are paying more for groceries, transportation and housing.

Vancouver, BC [March 13, 2024] – While the proportion of British Columbians who report higher prices for certain items has dropped since late 2022, almost half of the province’s residents continue to say it is hard to “make ends meet”, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative provincial sample, 48% of British Columbians say it is currently “very difficult” or “moderately difficult” to pay for necessities, unchanged since a similar Research Co. poll conducted in December 2022.

“More than three-in-five residents of Southern BC (63%) say it is hard to make ends meet right now,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “The proportions are lower in Metro Vancouver (47%), the Fraser Valley (47%), Vancouver Island (46%) and Northern BC (43%).”

Almost two thirds of British Columbians (65%, -6) say it is hard at this point to save money for retirement or for a “rainy day”.

British Columbians aged 18-to-34 (73%) and aged 35-to-54 (74%) are more likely to find it difficult to save money than their counterparts aged 55 and over (51%).

Almost three-in-five British Columbians (59%, -7) say it is hard right now to have money for leisure, such as dining out and entertainment—a proportion that reaches 74% among those in the lowest household income bracket.

The proportion of British Columbians who think their household’s financial situation is worse now than before the COVID-19 pandemic fell from 45% in December 2022 to 40% this month.

A third of British Columbians (33%, =) say their financial situation is about the same as it was before the pandemic, while 23% (+2) believe it is better now than before COVID-19.

Sizeable majorities of British Columbians believe their household expenses on three categories are higher now than before the pandemic: groceries (78%, -5), transportation (67%, -6) and housing (57%, +8). Practically half of the province’s residents (49%, -1) think electronic entertainment is now more expensive than in 2019.

Fewer British Columbians believe prices are higher now than before COVID-18 for books (27%, +6), newspapers and magazines (25%, +9) and board games (18%, +5).

Find our data tables here and download the press release here.

Most British Columbians Remain Satisfied with Housing Guidelines

February 28, 2024February 27, 2024By Mario Canseco

Majorities are in favour of new rules related to short-term rentals, as well as the extension of the federal foreign ownership ban.

Vancouver, BC [February 28, 2024] – Two measures recently implemented by the provincial government to deal with short-term rentals are supported by most of the province’s residents, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative provincial sample, 69% of British Columbians agree with raising the fines for short-term rental hosts who break local municipal by-laws to $3,000 per day per infraction.

Just under three-in-five British Columbians (58%) are in favour of banning homeowners from operating a short-term rental business unless it is located on their principal residence and/or on a different unit on their property.

Two thirds of British Columbians (66%) agree with the decision to cap rent increases in 2024 at 3.5%—a proportion that rises to 74% among those who are currently renting their primary residence.

Majorities of British Columbians also agree with building more modular supportive homes in areas where people are experiencing homelessness (75%, down three points since a similar Research Co. poll conducted in January 2023), implementing a three-business-day protection period for financing and home inspections (69%, -2), ending most strata age restrictions (60%, -4) and removing strata rental restrictions (52%, -7).

More than two thirds of British Columbians continue to hold favourable views on three other policies: increasing the foreign buyers tax from 15% to 20% (74%, -3), expanding the foreign buyers tax to areas located outside of Metro Vancouver (71%, -4) and introducing a “speculation tax” in specific urban areas targeting foreign and domestic homeowners who pay little or no income tax in BC, and those who own second properties that aren’t long-term rentals (69%, -3).

More than three-in-five British Columbians are also in favour of the decisions to increase the property transfer tax from 3% to 5% for homes valued at more than $3 million (62%, -3) and to introduce a tax of 0.2% on the value of homes between $3 million and $4 million, and a tax rate of 0.4% on the portion of a home’s value that exceeds $4 million (also 62%, -4).

Across the province, 41% of British Columbians (-7) think the actions of the provincial government will be effective in making housing more affordable in British Columbia. Almost half (47%, +6) believe they will be ineffective.

More than two-in-five British Columbians “completely” or “moderately” trust the provincial government under the BC New Democratic Party (NDP) (46%, -3) and their municipal government (42%, -4) to deliver affordable housing in British Columbia. The rating is lower when residents ponder provincial administrations headed by the BC Greens (35%, -4), the Conservative Party of BC (32%) or BC United (29%, -4).

At the federal level, the level of confidence is the same for governments headed by the Liberal Party (35%, -2) and the Conservative Party (also 35%, +4), and higher for the NDP (40%, =).

As was the case last year trust is significantly higher for not-for-profit developers (49%, =) than for for-profit developers (22%, +1).

Seven-in-ten British Columbians (70%, -1) support the federal government’s decision to ban non-Canadians (with exclusions for international students and temporary residents) from purchasing residential property in Canada until 2027.

Almost two thirds of British Columbians (65%, +4) believe the federal government should tie immigration numbers to affordable housing targets and new housing starts.

“More than seven-in-ten British Columbians aged 55 and over (73%) want the federal and provincial governments to work together to ensure local residents and immigrants have a place to live in,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “Majorities of their counterparts aged 35-to-54 (59%) and aged 18-to-34 (65%) share the same view.”

Just over three-in-five British Columbians (62%, +2) think municipal governments should immediately dismantle any encampment or “tent city” located within their municipality. Support for this course of action is highest in the Fraser Valley (66%), followed by Vancouver Island (62%), Metro Vancouver (59%), Northern BC (57%) and Southern BC (51%).

Practically half of British Columbians (49%) think the provincial government was right to implement a $400 renters’ rebate for households earning up to $80,000 a year—a proportion that rises to 65% among renters.

Conversely only 29% of British Columbians—and just 20% of home owners—would like the provincial government to cancel the home owner grant, which reduces the amount of property tax people pay for their principal residence.

Methodology: Results are based on an online study conducted on February 8 to February 10, 2024, among 800 adults in British Columbia. The data has been statistically weighted according to Canadian census figures for age, gender and region in British Columbia. The margin of error—which measures sample variability—is +/- 3.5 percentage points, nineteen times out of twenty.

Find our data tables here and download the press release here.

Most British Columbians Worried About Protests and Antisemitism

February 26, 2024February 26, 2024By Mario Canseco

More than three-in-five of the province’s residents agree with Canada’s decision to suspend funding for UNRWA.

Vancouver, BC [February 26, 2024] – A significant proportion of British Columbians express concerns about the local ramifications of the recent conflict in the Middle East, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative provincial sample, more than two thirds of British Columbians are concerned about aggressive behaviour by protestors at pro-Palestine rallies (70%) and antisemitism, or rising prejudice against Jewish Canadians (69%).

More than seven-in-ten British Columbians (72%) are also worried about protestors targeting Jewish neighbourhoods and Jewish-owned businesses in Canada.

“A rise in antisemitism in Canada is a concern for more than seven-in-ten residents of Vancouver Island (77%), the Fraser Valley (74%) and Southern BC (71%),” says Mario Canseco. “Majorities of those who live in Northern BC (70%) and Metro Vancouver (65%) are also worried.”

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) is a United Nations group created to provide aid to Palestinians in Gaza.

After evidence was found showing some UNRWA staff participated in the atrocities of October 7 and the holding of hostages, several nations—including Canada—suspended their funding for UNRWA.

Across British Columbia, 64% of residents agree with Canada’s decision to suspend funding for UNRWA, while 14% disagree and 22% are undecided.

Majorities of British Columbians aged 18-to-34 (60%), aged 35-to-54 (61%) and aged 55 and over (70%) think Canada’s federal government made the correct call in suspending funding to UNRWA.

Late last year, Langara College professor Natalie Knight was suspended after describing the October 7 attacks by Hamas on Israel that killed more than 1,300 Israelis and started the current violent conflict as “amazing and brilliant” at a Free Palestine rally in Vancouver.

More than three-in-five British Columbians (63%) agree with Langara’s decision to suspend the professor, while 20% disagree and 18% are not sure.

Agreement with Langara’s original course of action includes majorities of British Columbians aged 18-to-34 (58%), aged 35-to-54 (58%) and aged 55 and over (71%).

In January, Langara College dismissed Knight permanently. More than half of British Columbians (53%) think that, by celebrating the terrorism of October 7 at a public rally, and not apologizing, the professor created an unsafe climate for Jewish students and showed she cannot be trusted as a teacher in our colleges or universities.

About one-in-four British Columbians (24%) believe that, regardless of how a person feels about what she said, the professor was within her rights to academic freedom and freedom of speech and should have her job back.

Methodology: Results are based on an online study conducted on February 9 to February 11, 2024, among 801 adults in British Columbia. The data has been statistically weighted according to Canadian census figures for age, gender and region in British Columbia. The margin of error—which measures sample variability—is +/- 3.5 percentage points, nineteen times out of twenty.

Photo Credit: Michal Klajban

Find our data tables here and download the press release here.