B.C. sets up task force to tackle price volatility and supply chain risks amid Iran conflict
British Columbia’s premier on Monday announced the creation of a task force to address the economic fallout from the ongoing war in Iran, pointing to rising prices and potential supply chain disruptions, Qazinform News Agency correspondent reports.
David Eby said the internal government group is set to begin meetings later this week.
“We recognize that many people affected by this war are facing far greater hardships than those experienced here at home,” he told a news conference.
“However, the consequences are being felt in British Columbia as well.”
The premier noted that sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, energy and transportation are expected to face impacts in the coming weeks.
Earlier, Qazinform News Agency reported that British Columbia shifted to permanent daylight saving time after the March clock change, ending seasonal time adjustments for more than 5.6 million residents. Officials say the move reflects strong public support and changing considerations in coordinating policies with neighboring U.S. states.
The provincial government said the decision is intended to simplify daily schedules, reduce disruptions for families, and provide more evening daylight during the winter months.
Public backing for the change has been strong. A provincial survey conducted in 2019 showed that 93% of respondents supported adopting daylight saving time permanently.
After the March time change, residents and businesses will have about eight months to prepare for the new system before Nov. 1, when clocks would normally be set back one hour.
The province will continue to use the name Pacific Time. During the winter months, British Columbia’s time will correspond with neighboring Alberta and other areas observing Mountain Standard Time. For the rest of the year, it will align with regions such as California, Washington, and Oregon.
Earlier, Qazinform News Agency reported that US President Donald Trump warned that NATO could face “very serious examination,” expressing disappointment with the alliance over what he described as insufficient support for the United States during its war against Iran.
