Throne speech overshadowed by pipeline protests

British Columbia's NDP government used today's throne speech to list its accomplishments since coming to power two-and-a-half years ago, but it is also touting new funding supplements for children and youth in care that are coming in October.

The speech also highlights plans to expand commuter services into the Fraser Valley, more HOV lanes and high-speed connections to Washington state.

The speech, read by Lieutenant Governor Janet Austin, says the government has eliminated Medical Services Plan premiums, reduced child care fees, and built thousands of affordable homes.

It was delivered against a backdrop of protests outside the legislature as hundreds blocked entrances to the building over the RCMP's enforcement of an injunction involving the Coastal GasLink pipeline.