Aboriginal people. The Sechelt region and the Sliammon region have lower labour force participation rates than the general population, but the Sechelt area has lower rates of unemployment, while the Sliammon areas are higher. 

Forestty is the main economic activity for this area. The area has several wood processing facilities including lumber mills. There is also considerable employment in harvesting throughout the region. Several hydro projects have been proposed, and they are linked with the existing mill activities in the area. As well, its proximity to Vancouver, combined with relatively inexpensive housing, helps draw relirees and Ihose who can work from home to the area. The area Is an established lourlsl destination. There are shell fish and fin fish farming in this area.

The proximity to the Lower Mainland and the promise ofimprovements to the transporlationnetwork will likely result in more population growth in this area. Although this area is attempting 10 diversify its economy, developments in/he forest sector will continue to have important impacts on the employment base of the area.

Local Economic Characteristics

Over 23,000 people are employed in the region, the largest numbers in business services, construction, retail trade, and health care and

social services. The chart shows the proportions and numbers of people employed in each industry.

The Regional District has almost 2,000 businesses, of which 1,800 have fewer than 20 employees, with the largest number and the largest businesses in construction, retail trade, and professional, scientific & technical services, and health care and social services.