Bruce Ralston, Minister of Jobs, Trade and Technology, has issued the following statement on the release of Statistics Canada’s Labour Force Survey for November 2019:

“B.C.'s economy remains resilient, with the lowest unemployment rate in Canada despite real challenges globally and here at home.

“Since our government was elected, B.C. has created over 70,000 jobs and we have maintained the lowest unemployment in the country for nearly the entire time. Wages continued to climb in the month of November, up $0.17 from last month to an average of $28.52 an hour. This means that over the past year, wages for workers in B.C. increased on average by more than $2 an hour, or by 7.6%, the highest growth rate among the provinces.

“Despite a strong labour market provincewide, there are workers who are struggling with ongoing pressures in some sectors of B.C.’s economy — particularly forestry. We remain dedicated to assisting these hard-hit communities.

“As part of our commitment to make life more affordable, as of Jan. 1, 2020, Medical Services Plan premiums will be completely eliminated for all British Columbians, saving families up to $1,800 per year. Additionally, we recently passed legislation to pull back the curtain and create transparency in how fuel prices are set by oil and gas companies.

“Heading into 2020, we are steadfast in our commitment to building an economy that works for everyone by investing in people.”