FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Vancouver, April 21, 2015 – The BC Chamber of Commerce congratulates the federal government on tabling a balanced budget during a time of on-going global economic uncertainty. This budget aligns fiscal prudence through controlled spending, with initiatives that support future economic growth.
“The BC Chamber applauds the federal government for achieving a balanced budget; this was certainly not an easy endeavour, with dropping oil-prices and on-going global economic uncertainty,” said John Winter, president and CEO of the BC Chamber. “Canada is in an enviable position, being one of only a few nations to announce a balanced budget.”
Winter also commends the budget’s focus on funding for major infrastructure projects, including a commitment to provide dedicated funding through a Public Transit Fund.
“Investing in infrastructure is imperative, especially transportation infrastructure. Transportation is a key driver of economic development for B.C. and Canada,” Winter said. “We look forward to further details regarding the Federal government’s plans, which we trust will help fund B.C. infrastructure projects, fueling economic growth.”
Winter noted that there’s a strong link between the investment in public infrastructure, such as roads, transit and utilities, and the productivity performance of all sectors of the Canadian economy.
“The success and competitiveness of Canadian business depends on modern and efficient infrastructure,” he said. “Businesses recognize that investing in transit and transportation, alleviates congestion, gives employees commuting options, and opens up the roads for businesses to move their goods to market.”
The BC Chamber also welcomed continued focus on the growth of the potential LNG sector by re-committing to the accelerated capital cost allowance on LNG liquefaction facilities as well as the expansion of the LNG export licence from 25 years to 40 years.
The BC Chamber is the largest and most broadly-based business organization in the province. Representing more than 125 Chambers of Commerce and 36,000 businesses of every size, sector and region of the province, the BC Chamber of Commerce is “The Voice of Business in BC.”
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For further details, please contact:
John Winter
President & CEOBC Chamber of Commerce T 604.638.8110 C 604.376.3577 E jwinter@bcchamber.org