BC NDP Leader David Eby questioned a leaked Sept. 29 letter from interim Conservative leader Lorne Doerkson about ICBC’s no-fault system as Doerkson promoted a “hybrid model” at campaign stops in Surrey.
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BC NDP Leader David Eby and interim BC Conservative leader Lorne Doerkson clashed over the future of ICBC’s no-fault insurance system during separate campaign events in Surrey on Oct. 7, 2026.
At a campaign stop outside a Surrey grocery store, Eby discussed a leaked letter dated Sept. 29 that Doerkson signed regarding ICBC’s no-fault system. Eby said the letter appeared to promise lawyers and insurance experts that the Conservatives would repeal the current system and replace it with a hybrid insurance policy, while noting that “everything is on the table.”
Eby called the approach “disgraceful and embarrassing,” saying it would “double” insurance rates to win support from private trial lawyers and private insurance companies. He also asked who authored the letter’s signature.
Eby tied the NDP’s 2021 insurance change to what he described as a “financial dumpster fire” at ICBC, saying the Enhanced Care no-fault system generally prevents car accident victims from suing.
A short distance away, Doerkson responded to questions about the letter and said it was “meant to be anything but private.” He said his “hybrid model” offers B.C. a “new path forward” for insurance, adding that “the letter went to 1,000 people” and that he was “absolutely promising British Columbians” that rates will be kept in line and there will be “proper compensation.”
Both leaders also outlined campaign economic proposals on Wednesday. Doerkson said his BC Conservatives’ plan, “Supercharge BC,” would temporarily eliminate PST on business machinery, equipment and software, and would approve major capital projects in 120 days or less by eliminating “red tape and delays.” He also said it would eliminate “job killing business taxes.”
Eby, for his part, announced a $500 million relief fund for businesses affected by U.S. tariffs and wildfires and a $5,000 refundable tax credit for small and medium businesses that employ a young person. He said the interest-free loans were aimed at helping businesses “get through this period.”
BC Green Party leader Emily Lowan also laid out an economic plan, including province-wide commercial rent protections for small businesses and a commitment to revitalize freight and passenger rails. Lowan said the Greens would make it easier for small businesses to deal with government through a “single front door” for approvals, simpler forms and clearer timelines.
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