CME Policy Brief – Repeal Of The Industrial Exception

Submitted by Ian Howcroft, Vice President, Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME) Ontario
Overview: On January 25th, 2013, the Attorney General of Ontario announced that effective March 1, 2013, those responsible for professional engineering work in relation to production machinery or equipment must be licensed by Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO). CME engaged the Attorney General, the MEDTE, the Premier’s office and key industry stakeholders in opposition to the change. The AG has subsequently extended the timeline for implementation from March 1, 2013 to September 1, 2013.

CME is coordinating a response calling for a full Regulatory Impact Analysis and, subject to verification of the costs and lack of benefit, a return to the status quo with respect to the industrial exception.
(more…)

Continue ReadingCME Policy Brief – Repeal Of The Industrial Exception

In Durham, Chambers Speak For Business – Not Toronto Board

On February 9th the Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce (GOCC) Board of Directors wrote to the Toronto Board of Trade on behalf of its membership stressing its disappointment in the Toronto Board’s decision of introducing a new brand name – Toronto Region Board of Trade. The decision by the Toronto Board was made without consultation and was clearly seen by the GOCC Board as an attempt to undermine the Ontario Chamber of Commerce and the GTA Chambers of Commerce.

The letter stressed that the Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce represented its business community and its members very well at all levels of government. The GOCC provides vital feedback and participates in the success and longevity of the Ontario and the Canadian Chambers of Commerce. The GOCC agreed with the position of Durham Regional Chair Roger Anderson that the Chambers and Boards in Durham speak for business in Durham – NOT the Toronto Board. (more…)

Continue ReadingIn Durham, Chambers Speak For Business – Not Toronto Board

Metrolinx Revenue Tools On The Menu

On Wednesday, March 13th the Durham Economic Prosperity Committee of the Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce, in co-operation with the Ontario Chamber of Commerce is hosting a breakfast with Metrolinx at the Quality Hotel & Conference Centre to understand the impact of the proposed Revenue Tools to Durham Region. John Howe, Vice President, Investment Strategy & Project Evaluation at Metrolinx is the keynote speaker.

In early 2012 the Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce, along with twelve other Chambers of Commerce from the GTA signed on to the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) letter sent to Metrolinx stating the GTA Chambers strongly believe transportation infrastructure investments are vital to economic growth and productivity, particularly in light of the uncertainty facing the Ontario economy. Since that time the OCC has established a GTA caucus of over 20 Chambers of Commerce to ensure the business community and ratepayers in the 905 area have input into the proposed revenue tools. (more…)

Continue ReadingMetrolinx Revenue Tools On The Menu