The last time Prime Minister Mark Carney was on White Rock’s waterfront – just prior to his election – he complained because his schedule didn’t allow him a walk on the city’s iconic pier.
This Wednesday (Nov. 12) Carney got his walk on the pier, where he chatted with surprised walkers and promenade visitors during a photo-op stroll hosted by South Surrey-White Rock MP Ernie Klassen.
Carney was in Metro Vancouver as part of a B.C. tour to reportedly “highlight new local infrastructure investments in Budget 2025 to build stronger communities,” according to an advisory from the Prime Minister’s Office.
Previously it was announced that continuing repair and upgrading of the pier – which was significantly damaged during a severe storm in 2018 – is among the projects slated to receive funding in the federal budget.
But no announcement was made during this stop at White Rock, and no numbers were forthcoming.
During Carney’s brief, no fanfares visit, he made a detour to The White Coffee & Ice Cream on Marine Drive where he chatted with Mayor Megan Knight and other dignitaries.
“He told me that money for the pier would come from the Community Building Fund, but he didn’t share any numbers,” Knight told Peace Arch News.
“We’re being very careful not to make any announcements until after the budget is passed,” Klassen commented, adding that he was hopeful that a specific announcement of funding for the pier would be made soon.