Report from Canadian Chamber of Commerce
February 11, 2014 – Today’s budget presents the continuity of a plan for economic growth that builds on Canada’s economic and fiscal advantages. The measures announced by the government will help Canadian businesses prosper and compete.
We have urged the government to focus on where Canada needs to be in five or 10 years, even if it means making tough decisions now. The government has acted on some of the key elements of our Top 10 Barriers to Competitiveness. The result will be a stronger economy and more jobs.
Wins for Business
Public infrastructure
We particularly welcome the money for major infrastructure projects. Nobody cuts a ribbon when a new sewer pipe is installed. It is just not a dramatic moment. But thousands of Canadians idling in their cars because of traffic congestion or bridge delays can tell us what investments in infrastructure can mean to our quality of life and productivity. There is a strong link between the investment in core public infrastructure, such as roads, transit and utilities, and the productivity performance of all sectors of the Canadian economy. Equally clear are the consequences of underinvestment. The success and competitiveness of Canadian business depends on modern and efficient infrastructure.
Skills
Measures to better match young workers with the skills needs of business are also a step in the right direction. We have made skills our top priority for the last three years and will continue to work closely with the government and the entire business community. In this regard, we also welcome the government’s initiative on First Nations education, announced prior to the budget.
Remote communities
We have been advocating the important role remote communities can play in our economy. The money allocated to bringing internet access to more Canadians is a positive step forward for northern businesses.
View our analysis of the federal budget.
We have urged the government to focus on where Canada needs to be in five or 10 years, even if it means making tough decisions now. The government has acted on some of the key elements of our Top 10 Barriers to Competitiveness. The result will be a stronger economy and more jobs.
Wins for Business
Public infrastructure
We particularly welcome the money for major infrastructure projects. Nobody cuts a ribbon when a new sewer pipe is installed. It is just not a dramatic moment. But thousands of Canadians idling in their cars because of traffic congestion or bridge delays can tell us what investments in infrastructure can mean to our quality of life and productivity. There is a strong link between the investment in core public infrastructure, such as roads, transit and utilities, and the productivity performance of all sectors of the Canadian economy. Equally clear are the consequences of underinvestment. The success and competitiveness of Canadian business depends on modern and efficient infrastructure.
Skills
Measures to better match young workers with the skills needs of business are also a step in the right direction. We have made skills our top priority for the last three years and will continue to work closely with the government and the entire business community. In this regard, we also welcome the government’s initiative on First Nations education, announced prior to the budget.
Remote communities
We have been advocating the important role remote communities can play in our economy. The money allocated to bringing internet access to more Canadians is a positive step forward for northern businesses.
View our analysis of the federal budget.
