Ontario Chamber of Commerce to Put Economy and Jobs in the Spotlight

Federal election an opportunity for Ottawa to take action and improve business climate

TORONTO, ON, AUGUST, 4, 2015: With the 2015 federal election now underway, Ontario’s most prominent and diverse business network is calling on all federal political parties to make bold commitments that will improve Ontario’s business climate and drive economic growth. The Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) will work with chambers of commerce and boards of trade from across Ontario, and its broad business network, to produce a thorough evaluation of federal party platforms.

“The federal election comes at a critical time for Ontario businesses,” said Allan O’Dette, President & CEO of the OCC. “It is essential that all parties commit to policies that will improve the business climate and spur economic growth in Ontario. By publicly evaluating the commitment of each federal party to this end, we are putting pressure on our federal politicians to demonstrate leadership and help our business community succeed.”

The major parties’ platforms will be evaluated based on their ability to create a better business climate in Ontario by committing to the following:

Investing in critical infrastructure, including transit and transportation infrastructure and all-season transportation infrastructure in the Ring of Fire;

Reforming Canada’s broken Employment Insurance system so that Ontario businesses are treated fairly;

Distributing economic development funds on a principled basis to ensure that businesses and communities in every province receive comparable federal supports;

Continuing to expand trade relationships by implementing bilateral agreements in Europe and Asia, while pushing forward regional and multilateral trade talks; and

Providing fiscally responsible management of Canada’s finances.

In addition, the Ontario Chamber of Commerce has extended invitations to each of the major federal parties to facilitate conversations between its membership and the leaders in the lead up to the October 19th election. These conversations, which are being scheduled, will add additional pressure to put the economy and job creation in the spotlight.

“A healthy Ontario economy is good for Canada,” said O’Dette. “All parties must be prepared to take the bold actions necessary to solidify a bright future for Ontario and further the economic success of our great country.”

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For more information please contact:

Michelle Kelly
Senior Communications Advisor
Ontario Chamber of Commerce
e. michellekelly@occ.ca
t. 416.482.5222 ext. 2410