British Columbia finished 2016 with more than $950 million worth of school construction projects underway – something the Province will be building on in 2017.

From the opening the newest hospital on Haida Gwaii, to preparing for construction of a new Centre for Mental Health and Addictions, 2016 strengthened health care for families around the province and 2017 is expected to continue to do so.

As a result of ongoing fiscal discipline and strong economic growth in B.C., the Province of British Columbia is able to support and fund projects that make a real difference to better protect the lives of the citizens of British Columbia.

Students throughout the province soon will have more opportunities and resources at their fingertips to help them train for careers after graduation.

People living on Haida Gwaii will soon know where to safely go in the event a tsunami strikes their coast, thanks to a collaborative project between local First Nations and governments, the Province, BC Hydro and TELUS.

Health Minister Terry Lake was joined by community leaders, residents and Northern Health physicians and staff for the grand opening of the new Haida Gwaii Hospital and Health Centre - Xaayda Gwaay Ngaaysdll Naay.

A total of 85 communities throughout B.C. will benefit from $2.4 million in funding toward community adult-literacy programs that will support adults wishing to improve their literacy and numeracy skills.

The Government of British Columbia is providing $702,000 to the Vancouver school district to repair, upgrade and improve five of its facilities to make sure students, teachers and staff have comfortable and refreshed places to learn and work.

Performing arts presenters throughout British Columbia are receiving $331,500 in grants to engage professional touring artists and enhance programming activity.

Effective at noon on Sept. 26, 2016, all open fires will once again be permitted throughout the Coastal Fire Centre’s jurisdiction. Tiki torches, burn barrels, fireworks, sky lanterns and binary exploding targets are also permitted. Accumulated rain and cooler temperatures has reduced the wildfire risk in the region.