Summerside – March 21, 2019 – The Greater Summerside Chamber of Commerce released the following statement in response to the Government of Canada’s 2019 Federal Budget:
“The 2019 Budget has taken steps to address some priorities for business, particularly in the areas of skills, infrastructure and broadband but it fails to provide concrete measures to address the tax and regulatory burden on businesses.” said Tara Maddix, Executive Director of the Greater Summerside Chamber of Commerce.
The Chamber noted the following key issues identified by businesses were also not addressed:
- A renewed commitment to eliminating inter-provincial trade barriers and mobility.
- Support for SMEs to help them find new export opportunities and expand Canada’s ability to diversify its trade.
The Greater Summerside Chamber of Commerce is pleased that the Budget did deliver on some of the initiatives identified in a recent member survey completed by the Atlantic Chamber of Commerce including the extension of the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Project in support of regional population growth. However, the Budget did not address a key issue identified by the more than 16,000 members of the chamber network in Atlantic Canada which is to reduce the budget deficit of $19.8 billion.
“Some Budget 2019 proposals require more consideration and details before determining the impact on businesses. Heading into the 2019 Federal Election, the Greater Summerside Chamber of Commerce, along with the Canadian and Atlantic Chamber of Commerce, will continue to engage with Federal representatives to continue to support the growth of our economy.”
About the Greater Summerside Chamber of Commerce
Established in 1900, the Greater Summerside Chamber of Commerce is a volunteer organization made up of business and professional people sharing a common goal — the economic development of the Greater Summerside area. Small and large businesses from virtually every sector and profession form the membership.
For more information or comment, please contact:
Tara Maddix
Executive Director
902-436-9651
tara@summersidechamber.com