Hon. Harry Bains - MLA for Surrey-Newton

"Harry Bains first entered the political arena as the Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for Surrey-Newton in May 2005. His tenure in office has been marked by consistent re-election, with his commitment to the constituency earning him subsequent terms in 2009, 2013, 2017, and 2020. During his time in opposition, Bains held various significant roles, including serving as the Official Opposition critic for Olympics and Sport, Labour, and Forests, Lands, and Natural Resource Operations."

His dedication to public service was further recognized in 2017 when he was appointed Minister of Labour by Premier John Horgan. Bains was reappointed to this position in 2020 under Premier David Eby, reflecting his continued influence and effectiveness in addressing labour issues. Beyond his legislative work, Bains has deep roots in the Surrey community. He was actively involved in the local governance and educational sector as a member of the Kwantlen University College Board of Governors from 1993 to 1999, including a notable three-year term as vice-chair. His commitment to community service extends to volunteering with organizations such as Habitat for Humanity and a distinguished career in labour advocacy. With over 15 years as an elected officer with SteelworkersIWA Canada Local 2171, Bains has played a pivotal role as Vice President, leading negotiations to enhance working conditions. Residing in Surrey with his wife Rajvinder and their two children, Kulpreet and Jasmeen, Bains continues to be a dedicated advocate for both his constituents and broader community initiatives.

Key Initiatives for the Community:

As the MLA for Surrey-Newton, Harry Bains has focused on enhancing workplace safety and workers' rights. His initiatives include implementing robust workplace safety programs, raising the minimum wage to the highest in Canada, and introducing five permanent paid sick days for all workers, including additional days for those affected by domestic and sexual violence.

Further, Bains designated September 30th as a Statutory Holiday for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, brought privatized healthcare workers back in-house for better wages and benefits, and protected workers from contract-flipping through successorship rights. He also streamlined the process for union membership with single-step certification and established minimum standards for the app-based ride-hailing and delivery sector. An additional $12 million was allocated to the Employment Standards Branch to better support workers' rights and address complaints.

In addition to labour-related accomplishments, Bains has contributed to significant advancements in healthcare, education, and infrastructure. His achievements include supporting education through new schools and expanded facilities, providing more affordable childcare, increasing stability for mobile home park residents, eliminating bridge tolls, and supporting community projects such as installing a new elevator at the Indo-Canadian Seniors Society Centre and creating a new track behind Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara. Notable infrastructure projects under his tenure include constructing a new state-of-the-art hospital in Surrey, adding a new tower to Surrey Memorial Hospital, and establishing a new SFU Medical School in Surrey. Efforts have also been made to hire more healthcare workers and expedite the recognition of foreign credentials.

I know we can build a stronger Surrey and a stronger B.C. for everybody, of all backgrounds and of all stations in life. I have worked towards that, and I appreciate your support in what we have accomplished, together. There is so much more to do, so let’s stick together and keep at it - for a stronger B.C.!