As the summer season begins and wildfire activity has already begun to impact parts of British Columbia, including areas near major visitor destinations, the BCHA continues to advocate for the reinstatement of the Emergency Management Booking Platform.
In late April, the BCHA was notified that the Emergency Management and Climate Readiness (EMCR) Ministry would be defunding the emergency accommodation booking platform and associated coordination roles. In response, BCHA immediately convened a coalition of tourism and accommodation sector partners to express concern and push for the platform’s continuation. Over the past several weeks, we have escalated the matter directly to Minister Greene and, more recently, Premier Eby, reinforcing that this decision presents serious risks without a transitional solution in place. Our hospitality sector has always demonstrated leadership and been available to help at times of need.
Our scheduled meeting with Minister Greene (EMCR) and Minister Chandra Herbert (Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport) has been rescheduled to next week. While the delay is disappointing, we are encouraged by the support of Minister Chandra Herbert and insights that EMCR is open to constructive conversation and solutions – BCHA and our sector is at the ready to work in full collaboration.
We continue to work closely with our partners and regional partners to ensure that practical, immediate solutions are implemented to support displaced residents and visitors, and ensure clear, coordinated communication with accommodation providers across the province.
The Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness (EMCR) has provided the following update regarding their current approach and considerations:
During an evacuation, Reception Centre teams connect directly with community confirmed hotel suppliers to receive up-to-date room availabilities and process accommodation referrals for evacuees. Since the launch of the $200 shelter allowance, an increasing number of evacuees are skipping the paper referral and using this option to book the accommodation of their choice. The $200 e-transfer can be processed virtually, saving evacuees a trip to their physical Reception Centre. For more information, go to: ess.gov.bc.ca
We are hopeful that next week’s meeting will bring greater clarity and a clear path forward and will update our membership and industry on the outcomes.
In the meantime, we extend our sincere thanks to those hotels and communities already impacted by early-season emergencies for their responsiveness and continued commitment to public safety, seamless visitor experience and being great stewards.