B.C. Conservatives point to full-time job losses as economic warning sign

Sep 8, 2026 | 12:49 PM

PRINCE GEORGE — The B.C. Conservatives are sounding the alarm after Statistics Canada reported the province lost 26,000 full-time jobs in August, while unemployment rose to 6.5 per cent.

Although the labour force survey showed a gain of more than 20,000 part-time positions, overall employment still declined by 5,500 jobs. Conservatives argue the loss of full-time work is a more significant measure of economic health because those positions typically provide stable incomes for families.

Speaking to CKPG News, Prince George-Mackenzie Conservative MLA Kiel Giddens said the decline in full-time employment represents a major challenge for the economy and for communities that rely on resource-sector jobs.

The opposition is also highlighting continued struggles in forestry and other natural resource industries. According to Statistics Canada data cited by the Conservatives, employment in the natural resources sector has fallen 17.2 per cent over the past year. The party says mill closures and curtailments have created uncertainty in communities including Prince George, Mackenzie and Quesnel.

Conservatives are blaming the NDP government for what they call a weakening business climate and point to B.C.’s employment growth lagging behind Alberta. Over the past year, employment in B.C. increased by just 0.5 per cent compared to 3.6 per cent in Alberta.

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The party is also criticizing the province’s planned October 1st expansion of the Provincial Sales Tax to a range of professional services, including accounting, engineering, architecture and geoscience services. Giddens said the additional costs will be felt by forestry companies and small businesses already facing economic uncertainty and tariff pressures.

Conservative Labour and Economic Development Critic Kiel Giddens says the province needs policies that encourage investment, hiring and job creation. Sampson echoed those concerns, calling for reduced red tape, faster project approvals and a more competitive tax environment.

The NDP government has defended its economic policies, saying they are focused on supporting workers, strengthening public services and building long-term economic growth throughout British Columbia.

by Greg Fry

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B.C. Conservatives point to full-time job losses as economic warning sign

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