The provincial government has hired Terrace-based All Nations Driving Academy deliver driver training to as many as 1,000 Indigenous people in B.C.'s North Coast and Nechako regions at no cost to the students.
In all, $360,000 will be put towards courses and services for people to secure their Class 7 learner and novice driver's licences and follows on $80,000 that helped 214 people get the training, the government said in a press release issued Thursday.
"Improving access to driver training in Indigenous communities was a clear call to action and systemic concern that First Nations leaders have raised with me," said Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Training Melanie Mark.
"Opening doors for individuals in more rural areas provides them access to the training and skills required to be independent members of their communities.
"This expanded support will also empower Indigenous peoples, especially women, to travel with a greater sense of safety along the Highway 16 corridor."
Access to safe transportation was identified as an issue for women in northern B.C. including through the report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.
"Studies have shown that between five per cent and 45 per cent of Indigenous peoples living on reserves do not have their driver's licence, which can significantly reduce options for employment," said Lucy Sager, CEO of All Nations Driving Academy. "We hear over and over from our participants that obtaining their licence has had a profound impact on their livelihood, helps families stay connected and makes travel safer for everyone."
Through the next decade, 12,990 job openings are expected in the North Coast and Nechako regions.
