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Good afternoon Mr. Byers,
My name is Kristen Duever VP of Public Affairs for the London Chamber of Commerce. The London Chamber represents approximately 1000 London businesses that employ over 60,000 in London and the surrounding area. And on behalf of our members and stakeholders, I want to thank you for the opportunity to share our priorities for the upcoming provincial budget.
The themes of our recommendations center around:
- Cultivating competitiveness and growth
- Investing in healthy communities
- Empowering Ontario’s workforce
- Building infrastructure and connectivity
We believe that by focusing on these key themes, we can lay the foundation for a brighter and more prosperous future for our province.
First and foremost, we emphasize the need for cultivating competitiveness and growth. Ontario's small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and they require support to thrive. We urge the government to enhance programs that assist small businesses, promote innovation, and accelerate the transition to clean energy. Embracing sustainable practices not only reduces our carbon footprint but also creates jobs in the burgeoning green sector. In addition, economic reconciliation is a vital goal, recognizing the importance of Indigenous communities' inclusion in our economic landscape, fostering partnerships, and sharing opportunities.
Investing in healthy communities is another imperative. The aging population in Ontario demands a robust approach to primary care and mental health services. These investments will not only improve the well-being of our citizens but also drive economic growth and stability. Developing a life sciences strategy will position Ontario as a global leader in health and research, fostering innovation and prosperity.
Empowering Ontario's workforce is a crucial pillar of our recommendations. Labour shortages pose a significant challenge, and we propose comprehensive strategies for reskilling and upskilling to address this issue. Furthermore, the creation of portable benefits can offer a safety net to workers in the gig economy, ensuring their financial security.
Building infrastructure and connectivity is the foundation for a thriving economy. We advocate for investments in broadband access, as it's essential for businesses, education, and remote work. Prioritizing affordable housing and intelligent land use planning will support families and attract talent. Strengthening supply chains, coupled with modern transportation systems, will enhance our provincial competitiveness and resilience.
In conclusion, Mr. Beyers, we present these recommendations as a roadmap to a prosperous, sustainable, and inclusive Ontario. By focusing on cultivating competitiveness and growth, investing in healthy communities, empowering our workforce, and building essential infrastructure and connectivity, we can unlock the full potential of our province.
We sincerely hope that these ideas resonate with you and the provincial government. Together, we can pave the way for a brighter future for Ontario, where our communities are healthier, our workforce is more empowered, and our economy is stronger than ever.
Thank you for your attention, and we look forward to working collaboratively to shape the 2024 budget for the betterment of all Ontarians.
