NEWS RELEASE
ORILLIA DISTRICT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
*************************
On Feb. 27, 2024, representatives of the Orillia District Chamber of Commerce (ODCC) attended Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC)’s ninth annual Advocacy Day.
The Ontario chamber network is calling on public policymakers to prioritize investments aimed at enhancing Ontario’s productive capacity.
“As Ontario chamber members come together for Advocacy Day, we urge policymakers to focus on strategic investments to counter Canada’s declining productivity,” said Daniel Tisch, president and CEO of the OCC.
“With business confidence at historic lows, our pre-budget call includes a push for policies that support a skilled, inclusive workforce, strong and sustainable infrastructure, a competitive business environment, and healthy communities — the foundations of productivity and prosperity.”
Some of the key recommendations of the OCC Advocacy Day delegation are:
- Investing in inclusive workforce development: To address labour shortages, investments to resolve skills mismatches are vital. These initiatives should be designed to close the gap between current workforce skills and the evolving demands of Ontario’s labour market.
- Enhancing sustainable infrastructure: Strategic investments in smart and sustainable infrastructure, including transportation, clean energy and digital connectivity, can boost immediate economic activity while supporting long-term growth. This includes expanding broadband access in rural and remote areas and upgrading public transit and road networks.
- Fostering a business-friendly environment: Implementing policies that reduce red tape and create a conducive environment for business growth is essential. This includes reviewing and streamlining regulatory processes, providing tax incentives for businesses looking to grow and targeted support for small businesses.
- Cultivating resilient, healthy communities: Improving health data system integration, addressing capacity gaps in health human resources, and empowering municipalities with new revenue sources are crucial steps in ensuring the well-being of Ontarians and fostering community prosperity.
“Productivity is an essential determinant of quality of life and overall economic well-being,” said Allan Lafontaine, executive director of the Orillia District Chamber of Commerce. “We are thrilled to be participating at this year’s Advocacy Day, bringing forward solutions that will bolster Ontario’s economic competitiveness and support a prosperous economy.”
Advocacy Day brings hundreds of OCC members from across the province to Queen’s Park to meet with representatives from all parties to discuss how to work together to improve Ontario’s productivity and achieve inclusive, sustainable prosperity.
Thank you to the OCC’s presenting partner, Chambers Plan, and event partners, Bruce Power, CN, Uber, and Waste Connections of Canada.
*************************
