Carole James, Minister of Finance, has issued the following statement on BC Hydro deferral accounts audit concerns:

More than 16,000 employees in the multi-union Community Social Services Bargaining Association have had ratified agreements reached with the Community Social Services Employers’ Association of BC.

Public service employees in core government have ratified an agreement reached with the Public Service Agency under government’s Sustainable Services Negotiating Mandate, which focuses on improving services for people and ensuring fair and affordable compensation.

Employees in the multi-union Community Bargaining Association have ratified an agreement reached with the Health Employers’ Association of BC.

As part of the Province’s 30-point plan for housing affordability, property buyers — including real estate speculators — will have to disclose more complete information when they make purchases through a corporation or trust.

The Ministry of Finance has released an Employer Health Tax (EHT) tax notice, as part of the next steps toward the elimination of Medical Services Plan (MSP) premiums and transition to the EHT.

Fitch Ratings has affirmed British Columbia’s AAA credit rating, citing the province’s strong economic performance, stable fiscal results and diversified economy.