It's not surprising that Todd Whitcombe's March 21 column "New Premier talks a good game" focused on self- selected data that supports the writer's political agenda as Mr. Whitcombe was an NDP candidate in 2001.
What Mr. Whitcombe fails to mention is that according to data available on BC Stats website, real disposable income per capita dropped by $113 from $21,212 in 1991 to $21,099 in 2000.
At the same time the average unemployment rate during the NDP's decade in power, was 8.8 per cent.
Under our government real disposable income has increased by $3,875 from $21,449 in 2001 to $25,374 in 2009 leaving more money in the pockets of families. From 2001 to 2010 the average unemployment rate was 6.6 percent.
It's crystal clear. B.C.'s on the right track and my responsibilities as the Minister for Jobs, Tourism and Innovation is to help B.C.'s economy continue to grow and flourish.
In my previous role as Minister of Forests, B.C. was successful in tapping into new markets and expanding trade with Asia, which has resulted in 2010 being the best year on record for lumber exports to China - the world's most dynamic economy. In fact, they were double that of the previous year.
This success hit home for me with the restart of the Mackenzie pulp mill. Approximately 80 per cent of its product will travel to Asia, creating 220 direct and 500 indirect jobs because of expanded relationships with overseas markets.
Across all sectors in 2010, B.C.'s exports were up 15 per cent over the previous year, with a record-setting $11.7 billion to Asia.
This growth is bringing jobs to B.C. and to the resource dependent communities throughout the North and in Prince George.
In fact, the Cariboo's average monthly unemployment decreased from 9.7 in 2001 to 8.1 per cent in 2010.
British Columbia has a myriad of natural advantages. Our abundant resources and innovative industries provide us with world-class products to sell. Our majestic mountains, sprawling coastlines and stunning landscapes draw an increased number of tourists every year from around the world. And our location gives us a unique position to do business with global markets in Asia, Europe and the United States.
The economy is not an abstract idea. British Columbia's economy exists to serve the needs of B.C. families and unlike Mr. Whitcombe I'm very optimistic about what the future holds for British Columbians.
When the economy grows, it creates jobs so British Columbians can provide for their families, put food on the table and pay their rent or mortgage.
By creating jobs, we're putting families first.
Pat Bell
Prince George-Mackenzie MLA
Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation
