____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
For Immediate Release
Thursday, March 4, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
Chamber calls for federal government to restore confidence in federal budget address
March 4, 2010 – The Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce is hopeful that today’s federal budget will begin a path of restoring economic confidence in Canada, which will in turn help stimulate greater economic development.
“The government must implement the announced stimulus measures promptly and effectively,” said Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Dave Angus. “Restoring confidence, growth and jobs should remain the government’s top priority.”
The Chamber is optimistic, as Canada’s economy has made important progress during the past year and emerged from recession in the third quarter of 2009. Economic momentum is expected to gradually build in 2010 by an increase in domestic demand.
Angus added that in order to build confidence in the future, the government must also present Canadians with a viable plan on how it will balance its books and avoid structural deficits. The budget should include significant program spending restraint and a commitment to dedicate surpluses (once balanced budgets are achieved) to repay deficits accumulated since fiscal 2008-09.
“The government must lay the foundation for sustainable, long-term economic growth by addressing long-standing structural impediments that negatively affect the operation of markets and the capacity of businesses to operate efficiently,” concluded Angus. “This entails working to remove all internal barriers to trade and mobility, eliminating overlapping regulations, minimizing tax administration and compliance costs, and tackling the issues that impede the full utilization of market access opportunities internationally.”
The Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce, founded in 1873, is the largest organization representing the voice of business in Winnipeg. Our mission is to foster an environment in which Winnipeg business can prosper.
-30-
Dave Angus will be available for media comment following the Federal Budget Address in the Signature Boardroom – Second Floor, Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce 259 Portage Ave.
Contact: Chuck Davidson – Vice President Policy and Communications
Tel: (204) 942-3011 ext. 210 Cell. (204) 782-1679
Email: cdavidson@winnipeg-chamber.com