Unemployed British Columbians receiving services through the Employment Program of BC (EPBC) may now be eligible for up to a maximum of $7,500 in tuition funding available to help them access skills training.

A tentative agreement has been reached under the Cooperative Gains Mandate between Community Living BC (CLBC) and the BCGEU, the first at a Crown agency, Moira Stilwell, Minister of Social Development announced today.

The Province has completed the selection process for two external advisory panels that will monitor the success of the new Employment Program of B.C., and has also identified the organization that will create a Centre for Employment Excellence.

The new Employment Program of BC will provide unemployed British Columbians with the supports and services they need to do just that - get back to work and be self-sufficient.

Members of the Community Social Services Bargaining Association have ratified the agreement reached with the Community Social Services Employers' Association under the government's 2010 mandate, announced Finance Minister Kevin Falcon.

Now that Canada Post is back to work, the Ministry of Social Development is mailing out the cheques it held back from distribution during the postal disruption.

If you know someone who is a champion for multiculturalism in their community, nominate them for a 2011 Provincial Nesika Award. Nominations are now open for the awards, which recognize individuals, organizations and businesses that make outstanding contributions to promoting cultural diversity and Aboriginal heritage in B.C.