Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Minister Responsible for Labour Shirley Bond has issued the following statement in honour of Labour Day, observed this year on Sept. 5:

“The Labour Day long weekend holds different meanings and importance for each British Columbian – the last opportunity to relax and unwind before officially starting a new school year, or, the unofficial end to a memorable summer filled with friends and family.

“But for all of us – Labour Day is an opportunity to acknowledge the important role workers throughout the province – in communities large and small – play in the growth, success and vibrancy of our beautiful province.

“At the core of B.C.’s success – is people. The province’s workforce has grown steadily over the past 25 years, and looking forward, we anticipate a continued strong economy that will see almost one million new job openings across the province by 2025. This is great news for all British Columbians.

“Today, more British Columbians are working than ever before – 2.3 million – and it is important to make sure that all workers – every dad, mom, sibling, spouse, young adult and friend – make it home safely each night. The Province’s commitment to work with unions, employers, workers and WorkSafeBC to keep workers safe is as strong as ever and we will continue to work to enhance worker safety.

“This government wants all British Columbians to benefit from the growth and success of our province’s thriving and expanding economy. That’s why we will continue to leverage our BC Jobs Plan and B.C.’s Skills for Jobs Blueprint so training opportunities are available to ensure British Columbians will meet the needs of tomorrow’s labour market and continue to be first in line for jobs in B.C. over the next decade.

“Labour Day is the perfect time to stop and reflect on the sacrifices and gains that have been made to ensure safer, healthier workplaces and to express our gratitude for the contributions that B.C. workers have made and continue to make in British Columbia. On behalf of the Government of B.C., thank you for your hard work and for the critical role you have had in helping grow our economy, currently the leading economy in Canada.”

Learn More:

Employment Standards Branch: www.gov.bc.ca/EmploymentStandards

WorkSafeBC: www.worksafebc.com/

BC Labour Relations Board: www.lrb.bc.ca/

BC Jobs Plan: http://engage.gov.bc.ca/bcjobsplan/

B.C.’s Skills for Jobs Blueprint: www.workbc.ca/skills