WorkBC launches downtown Merritt office
WorkBC formally launched their new Merritt Employment Services Centre on Friday with the goal of executing programs similar to those formerly offered by Community Futures Nicola Valley at the same location.
The program will essentially be identical to what was formerly offered at the Quilchena Avenue location, but instead of block funding from the government, the province will allocate funding on a case-by-case basis, which could make the application process stricter.
“This will change how clients are accessing the services,” said Brian Sims, executive director for Community Futures Thompson Country, noting WorkBC took over on April 1. “There will now be a more comprehensive application process for each service.[The government] is trying to be more accountable with taxpayers’ dollars.”
The transition essentially has the same staff performing the same job in their former positions.
NDP MLA for Fraser-Nicola Harry Lali said the program is an essential service to the community.
“We always approve of provincial or federal dollars that can support our community, which has high unemployment and lots of suffering businesses,” he told the media.
“Employment services are needed so that people can get information about their job search. This helps people who have a hard time finding work.”
Minister of Social Development Stephanie Cadieux sent a written speech that Lali read:
“The services you offer will help unemployed people access the supports they need to get back to work quickly and provide for their families,” she stated. “Getting back to work is good for individuals and their families, and it’s good for communities and the province as a whole.”
WorkBC is located at 2099 Quilchena Ave.
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