VICTORIA — New data from Statistics Canada shows B.C. is making modest moves when it comes to jobs.
Statistics Canada’s Labour Force Survey for December 2020 shows while many other areas of Canada are feeling the impact of COVID-19’s second wave, B.C.’s economy bucked the trend with modest gains adding 3,800 jobs.
“But we are not out of the woods as daily COVID-19 cases remain high,” said Ravi Kahlon, minister of jobs, in a statement to media. “While B.C. added 24,000 full-time jobs across various sectors, including construction and manufacturing, about 20,000 part-time jobs were lost.”
Kahlon explained while B.C.’s total employment has now bounced back to 98.7 per cent of pre-pandemic levels, certain sectors like tourism and hospitality are still getting hit. He added the province is also seeing disproportionate impacts on people of colour who are both business owners and employees.
“There is reason for hope in the long term as independent economists predict B.C. will lead all provinces with the highest gross domestic product growth in 2021 and the lowest unemployment – but only if we are successful in bending the curve and reducing transmission,” said Kahlon.
He urged residents to be vigilant and keep COVID-19 cases low.
“We need to stay focused on following the advice of our health professionals for the health of British Columbians as well as the health of our economy,” he said.
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