An abbreviated fall session of the B.C. Legislature will start on Dec. 7.

Premier John Horgan shared that news today, saying some members will take part virtually and indicating it will only sit for a week before a Christmas break.

“Talking about, of course, the fundamental issues of how do we as a community, how do we as a province, address the challenges of COVID-19. How do we stay safe, how do we take care of each other, how to we keep our economy going, how do we keep our schools in place in a safe manner so kids can get the education they need and we can reduce anxiety right across the province.”

Horgan says his caucus will be sworn in next Tuesday, Nov. 24, and a cabinet will be named two days later – both ceremonies will be held largely virtually.

The Premier also says it’s still his intention that COVID-19 relief funds for individuals to go out before Christmas. He says government is determining who is eligible, and the money will be distributed by direct deposit.

“Much of that information is already held by government for the purposes of distributing resources. So we’re pretty confident that should we get through the legislative session quickly – in a week or so – we’ll be able to get those deposits done shortly thereafter,” he says.

“And we’re targeting Christmas of course. But I think at this extraordinary time, I think British Columbians will just be happy to have access to $1,000 for their family or $500 for individuals, whether it comes on December 24th or it comes on the 5th of January.”

Before being re-elected, Horgan promised a $1,000 one-time benefit for families and $500 for individuals.