despite solid job creation numbers, long-term unemployment — defined as being unemployed for six months or more — has more than tripled in b.c. since the pandemic started. as of may 2021 (latest data available), more than 51,000 workers fell into this category, indicating that many who lost their jobs in the initial lockdown still struggle to find work.
without targeted supports for workers in heavily impacted sectors and for those unemployed for a long period of time, we risk cementing long-term consequences from pandemic-induced job losses, especially for racialized and younger workers.
building a more just, inclusive and sustainable economy in b.c. as we recover from the pandemic will require all hands on deck. in addition to well-coordinated efforts from all levels of government, we’ll need business, local communities and the non-profit sector to step up and actively contribute.
as the reopening spurs new job creation, we must work together to end undervaluing low-wage work and make every job a good job with a living wage, good working conditions and access to basic benefits like paid sick leave.
my report proposes a three-prong policy framework for b.c.’s government to foster an inclusive recovery: