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“We’ve had great interest in each of our trust programs since we launched the supports earlier this year, and the adjustments we’re making today will ensure the program continues to meet the needs of the people it was initially designed to serve,” said Lekstrom. “Over the last couple of months, staff have met with affected workers and communities to share the benefits of the program and to hear how we can make it even better. Today’s changes reflect their feedback.”
The Province has made the following changes:
· First aid and truck driving schools will now be included in approved courses;
· Job search services will be included and funded as part of tuition;
· The cost of books will be covered within the $5,000 limit; and
· On a case-by-case basis, education/training outside B.C. may be considered.
The Community Development Trust includes: a $17.25-million
Tuition Assistance Fund, offering forest workers facing layoff opportunities to upgrade their skills, knowledge
and education; an $85.5-million Transitional
Assistance for Older Workers program to help older forest workers
transition to retirement; and a $26.25 million Job Opportunities Program to provide short-term employment
opportunities, including $2 million in direct assistance to both Mackenzie and
Fort St. James, two of B.C.’s most forestry-dependent and highly impacted
communities.
For more information on the Community Development
Trust and to inquire about applying for assistance visit www.labour.gov.bc.ca/CDT online, or
phone: 1-877-238-8882 toll free or 250 387-5349 in
-30-
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Ministry of Community Development 250 387-4089 |
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For more information on government services or to subscribe to the Province’s news feeds using RSS, visit the Province’s website at www.gov.bc.ca. |
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