Minister’s statement on August Labour Force Survey results
Adrian Dix, acting Minister of Jobs and Economic Growth, has released the following statement about the release of Statistics Canada’s Labour Force Survey for August 2026: “People and businesses in British Columbia continue to show their steady strength and resilience as new and continuing tariffs from U.S. President Donald Trump create unjustified challenges in some of our […]
A new business to help teachers in the West Kootenays
As former teachers, Jessie Morassut and Lauren Kessler know firsthand the need for a shift within the culture of teacher well-being. Moving away from toxic taglines like “do it for the kids” and “don’t smile until December”, and unclear expectations that can exist in work hours, these two are now stepping up to create and […]
Provincial funding strengthens Kootenay region as hub for critical-metals innovation, good jobs
With provincial support, a new critical-metals hub is being created in the Kootenays to put local businesses in a better position to grow and create jobs by seizing new opportunities created through new, nearby major mining projects. “Critical metals are essential to the clean economy and B.C. is well positioned to be a leader in […]
Good housing is hard to find. Here's how to help.
Rental housing in our region is hard to find. Affordability is an added issue – and the Lower Columbia Affordable Housing Society (LCAHS) wants to help. To do that, the Society first needs to gain a clearer and more up-to-date understanding of rental housing challenges in Rossland, Warfield, Trail, Montrose, Fruitvale, Areas A and B […]
$400 million for Teck in new federal strategic investment
Teck Resources Limited (TSX: TECK.A and TECK.B, NYSE: TECK) (“Teck”), Canada Growth Fund Inc. (“CGF”), and Natural Resources Canada (“NRCan”)’s Canada Critical Minerals Accelerator announced that they have signed a Strategic Investment Agreement (the “Agreement”) to support expanding production capacity for germanium, gallium, and antimony at Teck’s Trail Operations smelting and refining complex in British Columbia […]
Funding challenges results in Skills Centre winding down operations
The Skills Centre has been a cornerstone of workforce development and poverty reduction in Trail since 1997. For nearly three decades, the organization has supported job seekers and equity-denied groups, including youth, women, newcomers, and individuals facing barriers to employment, through innovative training, education, and community programs. Over time, the Skills Centre evolved from delivering […]
Metal Tech Alley Expertise Featured at International Mine Waste Recovery Policy Labs
Metal Tech Alley was invited to participate in the RESOLVE Policy and Practice Labs held June 10–11 in Victoria, BC. The workshops were convened by RESOLVE and REGENERATION, international organizations focused on accelerating practical solutions for responsible resource development, restoration, and the recovery of critical minerals. The two-day event brought together industry leaders, policymakers, researchers, […]
LCCTDS: Supporting Local Growers, Makers & Small Businesses
Farmers market season is in full swing, creating vibrant gathering spaces where residents can shop local, connect with neighbours, and support regional producers. Throughout the summer, IncrEDIBLE Farmers Markets bring together farmers, food producers, artisans, crafters, and community organizations across the Lower Columbia. Rossland IncrEDIBLE Farmers Market Queen Street Bi-weekly Thursdays 2 p.m. – 5:30 […]
Special mediator appointed to support resolution in E-Comm (911 operator) job action
E-Comm welcomes the appointment of special mediator Vince Ready to assist in reaching a fair and sustainable collective agreement with CUPE 8911, as announced by the Minister of Labour on June 6, 2026. With this appointment, any potential job action ceases and E-Comm will head into mediation to finalize a collective agreement without labour disruption. Vince Ready […]
B.C.’s minimum wage increases to $18.25 on June 1
As of Monday, June 1, 2026, the province’s general minimum wage will rise to $18.25 an hour. Types of wages affected The increase of just over 2.1% raises the general minimum wage from $17.85 to $18.25 per hour. The same percentage increase applies to the minimum rates for resident caretakers, live-in home-support workers, live-in camp […]