The Gander and Area Chamber of Commerce (Chamber) sees the Provincial Budget 2021 as a balanced approach to the current fiscal situation the province faces. However, the Chamber is still concerned to see that government continues to show an excess of expenditures over revenue.
The Chamber is encouraged to see Government’s investment in improving the province’s economy and focus on economic development, especially with their investment into small business and tourism, given the detrimental effect COVID-19 has had on these sectors.
Government has displayed a strong confidence in building a fiscal framework for the future of our Province with its 5-year plan to reach a surplus by 2026/27 but feel the Budget lacks in detail.
Chamber Chair, Hannah de Young, stated: “We are pleased with the actions being taken by Government with the merging of the Regional Health Boards and integration of the NL English School District to the Department of Education. However, we would have liked to see more of the recommendations of the Green Report “The Big Reset” implemented and outlined in the Budget and their plan.” She went on to say: “As plans rollout we await more details on the items highlighted in today’s budget and with more than $400 million being cut in program spending, projected for the year, again further details are also required as to the specifics on how this will be executed.
The Gander and Area Chamber of Commerce, which supports 300-plus members, promotes and improves the economic climate, while supporting the needs and concerns of the business community and enhancing the civic and social well-being of the area.
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Contact Information:
Hannah de Young
Chair
Gander and Area Chamber of Commerce
709-256-7110
Issued: May 31, 2021
“In Business, for Business”
