Building on the economic benefits and jobs created by getting to yes on major projects and provincial investments in infrastructure, Premier Christy Clark and Minister of State For Rural Economic Development Donna Barnett released the Province’s rural economic development strategy, detailing immediate investments and a long-term action plan to support thriving rural communities.

Government introduced a new Discriminatory Provisions (Historical Wrongs) Repeal Act to permanently remove discriminatory provisions in historical private legislation.

Construction of new passing lanes along Highway 5 between Barriere and Little Fort, near Darfield, is anticipated to begin this spring.

The Province has proclaimed March 7 as BC Colleges Day. It is an opportunity to acknowledge the critical role colleges in British Columbia play in connecting students of all ages to the education and training they need to secure a prosperous future.

A $7.3-million contract has been awarded to Knappett Industries of Nanaimo to finish work on the new route that will provide an improved connection between Highway 19 and the community of Courtenay. 

Improving continuity of care for inmates as they move between correctional centres and the community will be a key goal as the Provincial Health Services Authority (PHSA) assumes responsibility for the delivery of medical services at B.C.’s 10 provincial correctional centres on Oct. 1, 2017.

Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General Mike Morris issued the following statement to mark the 19th Stop the Sexual Exploitation of Children and Youth Awareness Week, March 6-12, 2017:

The B.C. government has approved a Crown land transfer to the District of Ucluelet that will enable the creation of a historic museum, enhancements to the area’s trail network, viewing areas and visitor amenities, and the preservation of important historical structures.

Proposed amendments introduced as Bill 9, the Finance Statutes Amendment Act, 2017, will clarify rules and improve fairness to align with government’s ongoing commitment to reduce red tape and simplify and streamline regulatory requirements.

As part of the Province’s work to make sure British Columbians have access to high-quality primary care, 14 additional internationally trained physicians will begin practising in rural and remote communities throughout the province, including five family doctors in the Interior region.