British Columbia is leading the country in economic growth, and continues to rely on economic immigration to meet labour market demand.

The Government of British Columbia recognizes the important role of newcomers to help build B.C.’s strong and sustainable economy.

Premier Christy Clark issued the following statement in response to the federal government’s announcement of $867 million over the next three years for Canada’s forestry communities, workers and companies that may be adversely affected by the ongoing softwood lumber dispute with the U.S.:

Motorists should expect delays of approximately 20 minutes on Highway 1 between Shawnigan Lake Road and Aspen Road and are advised to allow for extra travel time during construction, especially on Friday and Sunday afternoons as well as long weekends.

Saanich residents are advised that the second aerial spraying treatment to eradicate invasive gypsy moths from land around Elk Lake and Bear Hill Regional Park will occur Friday, May 26, between sunrise (5:10 a.m.) and 7:30 a.m., weather permitting.

Following recent flooding events earlier this month and with the potential for more seasonal flooding in communities surrounding the Okanagan Lake in the coming weeks due to increased snowmelt and forecasted warmer weather, Emergency Management BC asks that residents in the area take precautions to ensure personal safety.

Saanich residents are advised that the first aerial spraying treatment, originally scheduled for May 15, to eradicate invasive gypsy moths from land around Elk Lake and Bear Hill Regional Park is now scheduled for Wednesday, May 17, between sunrise (5:20 a.m.) and 7:30 a.m.

Over the May long weekend, access to the parking lot at Sombrio Beach will be temporarily restricted for safety measures, as in previous years, to discourage illegal activities such as parties and vandalism.

Saanich residents are advised that the first aerial spraying treatment, originally scheduled for Monday, May 15, to eradicate invasive gypsy moths from land around Elk Lake and Bear Hill Regional Park is being postponed to allow for optimum weather and operational conditions.