Budget initiatives on infrastructure, skills and remote communities will boost Canada's competitiveness

OTTAWA, Feb. 11, 2014 /CNW/ - 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 the Canadian Chamber of Commerce's Top 10 initiative for restoring Canada's competitiveness. The result will be a stronger economy and more jobs," said Canadian Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Perrin Beatty.

The Canadian Chamber particularly welcomes the money for major infrastructure projects: "Nobody cuts a ribbon when a new sewer pipe is installed. It's just not a dramatic moment," said Perrin Beatty. "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," said Beatty.

Measures to better match young workers with the skills needs of business are also a step in the right direction. The Canadian Chamber has made skills its top priority for the last three years and will continue to work closely with the government and the entire business community. In this regard, the Canadian Chamber also welcomes the government's initiative on First Nations education, announced prior to the budget.

The Canadian Chamber has 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.

Finally, the Canadian Chamber encourages the government to maintain its policy of allowing market forces to set services and prices for Canadian consumers. Unnecessary government intervention, however well intended, has a long record of damage and unintended consequences in Canada.

The Canadian Chamber of Commerce is the vital connection between business and the federal government. It helps shape public policy and decision-making to the benefit of businesses, communities and families across Canada with a network of over 450 chambers of commerce and boards of trade, representing 200,000 businesses of all sizes in all sectors of the economy and in all regions. News and information are available at Chamber.ca or follow us on Twitter @CdnChamberofCom.

SOURCE: Canadian Chamber of Commerce