Labour
Strategic Context
Labour faces opportunities and challenges in the pursuit of its mandate over the next three years. The goals, objectives and
strategies identified in this Service Plan will mitigate risks, maximize opportunities and address key challenges. In addition
to the core services it provides as required by legislation, policy and programs, Labour is focused on three specific areas
for 2008/09 – 2010/11: vulnerable persons; prevention4; and labour stability and competitiveness. These themes will serve as focal points for emerging and expanding services, and
define how Labour will direct its efforts and resources for maximum effect.
Opportunities
- Labour supports government’s Great Goal of creating more jobs per capita than any other Canadian jurisdiction by enabling
a stable labour relations climate through policies and legislation that support the development of a productive and efficient
labour force, safe workplaces, and basic standards of compensation and conditions of employment. A stable labour relations
climate fosters economic stability, which attracts investors and employers to our great province.
- The legislative framework encompassing the Workers’ Compensation Act, the Employment Standards Act, and the Labour Relations Code recognizes that one size does not fit all in a modern and changing work environment. It provides the foundation for an expanded
economy and diversification through fair and balanced laws and regulations.
- Citizen-centred service improvements and proactive initiatives will lay the groundwork for ongoing labour stability and prosperity.
These improvements and initiatives include increased education for young workers, enhanced requirements for orientation of
new employees, and, in conjunction with WorkSafeBC, protecting gas station attendants with a new mandatory pre-payment requirement
for fuel.
- A focus on prevention, including education, serves to increase compliance with laws and regulations.
- Labour is committed to continuing its support and investment in its employees by providing learning and developmental opportunities
that help to create a skilled, motivated and client-focused staff.
Challenges
- Continued strong employment growth and demographic change puts pressure on the labour market and increases the demand for
skilled workers, which poses a risk of contributing to labour relations pressures.
- British Columbia has experienced strong employment growth in high-hazard sectors such as construction and mining, and has
also experienced an increase in less experienced workers who are at greater risk of workplace injury. These trends pose an
increased challenge for WorkSafeBC which has responded by placing an increased emphasis on injury prevention and occupational
health and safety initiatives.
