The Northeast and Northwest Regional Workforce Tables have completed their regional skills training plans and are ready to take action to help ensure northern B.C. communities have skilled workers to fill jobs, both today and in the future.

At the close of 2012, British Columbia's job growth remains strong and steady with a gain of 600 new jobs last month and a drop in the unemployment rate to 6.5 per cent.

This past fall, the government announced a plan to expand and align skills training programs with economic opportunities to ensure British Columbia has a workforce with the right skills, in the right places, at the right times. This plan will continue to drive decision-making in 2013.

Back by British Columbian demand, a new series of 'BC Jobs Start Here' job fairs will come to 22 communities beginning in January to promote current job opportunities, career trends and skills training - with the addition of a new Skills4BC booth.

Communities throughout British Columbia will receive increased support to maximize their economic potential through new partnerships and an innovative suite of tools and resources, announced Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Minister Responsible for Labour Pat Bell today.

Significant progress was made in B.C. airports this year to attract new direct flights. Kelowna's International Airport just welcomed the arrival of United Airlines' inaugural direct flight from Los Angeles.

Despite the slight decline in employment, mainly in part-time positions, British Columbia's economy remains stable. The province continues to attract investment in spite of continued volatility in global markets.

The BC Jobs Plan has set a target to invest $25 billion in transportation infrastructure by 2020, creating up to 17,000 new jobs.