Message from the Minister
and Accountability Statement
Providing the best services possible for the citizens of British Columbia remains a focus of the Ministry of Labour and Citizens'
Services, and our commitment is reaffirmed in the 2007/08 – 2009/10 Ministry Service Plan. B.C. is Canada's leader and is
recognized internationally for excellence in citizen-centred service delivery. This plan articulates the steps that will be
taken to further strengthen our position.
Public services must work for all British Columbians. High-speed Internet is an important component in that it enables citizens
in all corners of the province to share in health, education and economic opportunities. Through the work of Network BC, we
have bridged the digital divide, and broadband connections are now available in almost all of the communities identified by
the Premier's Technology Council. Going forward, Network BC will focus on connectivity for First Nations.
Shared Services BC continues to leverage technologies and economies of scale to offer effective business solutions to its
clients across government and the broader public sector. Over 30 services are provided by Shared Services BC, including procurement
and supply, corporate accounting, strategic acquisitions and intellectual property, information technology, payroll and accommodation
and real estate.
British Columbia is enjoying an unprecedented level of labour peace, thanks to the success of last year's public sector bargaining
that saw more than 139 agreements (as of December 31, 2006) reached, covering more than 98 per cent of the province's public
employees. Our economy continues to benefit from a labour code that is fair and balanced for both employers and employees.
We also have a workers' compensation system that remains responsive to the needs of workers and employers. And just as WorkSafeBC
has a mandate to work with workers and employers to prevent workplace injury, illness and disease, the Provincial Council
on SafeBC will work toward making British Columbia the safest province in Canada.
This Ministry is broad in scope and the opportunities and challenges are many. As we achieve our goals and objectives, and
make government services more centred on the needs of the citizens of British Columbia, I thank all staff within the Ministry
of Labour and Citizens' Services for their dedication and contributions to the tasks at hand.
The Ministry of Labour and Citizens' Services' 2007/08 – 2009/10 Service Plan was prepared under my direction in accordance
with the Budget Transparency and Accountability Act. I am accountable for the basis on which the plan has been prepared. All material fiscal assumptions and policy decisions
as of February 12, 2007 have been considered in preparing the plan, and I am accountable for achieving the specific objectives
in the plan.
Honourable Olga Ilich
Minister of Labour and Citizens' Services
February 12, 2007