RAVI Kahlon, Minister of Jobs, Economic Recovery and Innovation, reacting to the release of Statistics Canada’s Labour Force Survey for June 2021, said on Friday that British Columbia had surpassed pre-pandemic employment levels – the only province to do so in June – recovering over 100% of the jobs lost during COVID-19.

Kahlon added: “The Labour Force Survey for June showed our plan to build a stronger B.C. is working with substantial employment growth of 42,100 jobs gained throughout the province. There are now 17,000 more British Columbians employed than in February 2020, and B.C.’s unemployment rate is one of the lowest in the country at 6.6%, well below the national average of 7.8%.

“Since moving to Step 3 of BC’s Restart plan, even more opportunities have opened for people and businesses. There is a renewed sense of optimism throughout the province, which is showing in our economy as more people travel, ‘buy B.C.’ and ‘support local’ in their communities.”

Kahlon noted: “While our province’s recovery is gaining momentum, there is still more work to do. We know many British Columbians continue to be disproportionately affected by the pandemic. That’s why we have made the most investments per capita in this country for people and businesses to help them navigate this pandemic.

“Our government has set the groundwork for a strong economic recovery. Investments, like yesterday’s partnership with the federal government on $10-a-day child care, will help parents enter and remain in the workforce.”

Kahlon said: “The StrongerBC Future Leaders Program is creating meaningful work experience opportunities for young people. This year, we’re investing $90 million in connectivity projects around B.C. to help close the digital divide. We have also increased the minimum wage and provided half a billion dollars in direct support for businesses when they needed it most. Now, we’re engaging with thought leaders throughout the province as we develop an economic plan to build a B.C. that’s more innovative, sustainable and inclusive.

“Because of the efforts of all British Columbians, life is beginning to return to normal. While we are gradually lifting restrictions, we are not out of the woods yet. I urge everyone to get fully vaccinated, support your communities and respect people’s comfort levels as we work through our plan to bring us back together.”