Standing with Local Wineries in Boundary Similkameen

Lightning Rock Winery in Summerland

Part of the vibrant wine industry supporting communities across the Okanagan and Boundary Similkameen.

The wine industry is a vital part of our region.

Across Boundary Similkameen, wineries support local jobs, attract visitors, and contribute to the identity of our communities. They are part of what makes this region unique, and they play an important role in our local economy.

Over the past number of weeks, I have been working alongside local winery owners, including Ron Kubek, to raise concerns directly with the provincial government.

Local Voices, Real Challenges

[Optional inline image: vineyard or winery exterior]

Working with local winery owners to raise concerns facing the wine sector in our region.

What I am hearing is consistent. Wineries are facing ongoing challenges and uncertainty, and they are looking for a government that is willing to listen and respond in a meaningful way.

One issue that continues to come up is the ongoing barrier to interprovincial trade.

Canada remains the only G7 country where small wineries, craft breweries, and artisan distilleries still face significant restrictions when it comes to shipping their own products across provincial borders. These outdated rules continue to limit growth, investment, and opportunity for producers here in the Okanagan and across the country.

Taking Action on Interprovincial Trade

Ron Kubek, a vintner from Summerland, has been a strong advocate on this issue and has launched a House of Commons petition calling for these barriers to be removed.

If you would like to support this effort, you can learn more and sign the petition here:
https://www.ourcommons.ca/petitions/en/Petition/Details?Petition=e-7258

Why This Matters for Our Region

These are not abstract concerns. They affect small business owners, workers, and families across our region. They also affect the long term sustainability of an industry that has taken decades to build.

Our wineries are resilient, but they should not have to navigate unnecessary barriers or uncertainty. They deserve clarity, support, and a path forward that allows them to succeed.

I will continue working with local producers and advocating to the Province to ensure that the concerns of our wine sector are heard and addressed.

Supporting our wineries means supporting our communities.