Strategic Context

To lead our province in delivering policy and programs government must consider the external and internal factors that create both challenges and opportunities.

Our world is constantly changing around us. In the latter part of 2005/06 British Columbia adjusted to a new federal government and is working collaboratively with that government to address issues of concern to British Columbians.

British Columbia's economic policies are working. British Columbia's real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew by a solid 3.5 per cent in 2005, slightly higher than the 3.4 per cent growth rate forecast in the September Budget Update. Soaring exports of natural gas, coal, minerals, softwood lumber, and machinery and equipment products continued to fuel economic growth. Strong consumer spending and investment helped make B.C.'s economic growth rate the second highest in the country, behind Alberta's 4.5 per cent expansion. B.C.'s economic growth was accompanied by a marked drop in the unemployment rate and strong labour wage increases. But British Columbia's competitiveness is challenged by the increasing value of the Canadian dollar and its accompanying pressures on the export industry.

Economic prosperity and the beginning of anticipated demographic shifts to an older workforce are also creating challenges. Businesses today report a shortage of skilled workers. These pressures are expected to increase over the coming decade. Together with business and educators, the provincial government is putting in place labour market initiatives to address this shortage.

British Columbia's largest challenges relate to improving the social conditions experienced by many of its citizens. Improving health care, education and ensuring that British Columbians have access to needed social services and supports is a primary focus of government. While a prosperous economy will position government to make improvements, determining ways to meet the increasing pressures on the health care system and the changing demands for social supports requires significant and long-term effort.

To successfully lead our province to its fullest potential, the government has set a vision to have British Columbia achieve the Five Great Goals to:

  1. Make British Columbia the best-educated, most literate jurisdiction on the continent.
  2. Lead the way in North America in healthy living and physical fitness.
  3. Build the best system of support in Canada for persons with disabilities, those with special needs, children at risk, and seniors.
  4. Lead the world in sustainable environmental management, with the best air and water quality, and the best fisheries management, bar none.
  5. Create more jobs per capita than anywhere else in Canada.
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