Prince George, B.C.- The head of the rapid response team with the United Steelworkers local 1-424 is pleased with the changes being made to programs to help displaced forestry workers. Terry Tate says the changes announced by the Province, are the kind of changes workers have been calling for.

 

The Province has made some additions to the programs available for funding under the Community Development Trust  fund.

 

 

·       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: $2 million in direct assistance to both Mackenzie and Fort St. James, two of the most highly impacted communities in the province. The fund also 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.