Opinion/Editorial for October 5th Government of Canada Action Plan Creates Economic Strength

October 05, 2009

Many Northern Albertans have faced significant hardships recently as a result of the downturn in the global economy. Over the past month we have started to see numerous positive signs of recovery on the horizon, but we have not yet reached the end of these economic challenges. Our government has made considerable investments in measures to help our families and businesses today, while ensuring that Canada’s economy will be stronger and more stable over the long-term.

Reaching this point has taken a lot of effort, but our economic actions are making a difference. Canada’s banking and mortgage sectors have remained strong and resilient. We have kept taxes low for families and businesses, making sure that Canada is a more affordable place to live and work. At the same time, we are preparing our workforce for the jobs of tomorrow by making changes to skill training programs that help get workers ready for new, higher paying jobs.

Many of Canada’s industries are also feeling the effects of the global downturn. Through the Economic Action Plan, our Conservative government is making investments designed to create new jobs and stimulate local economies. New roads, bridges, sewers and water treatment systems, as well as enhancements to educational institutions and recreational facilities, are examples of the improvements that are being funded in our communities.

Our Conservative government’s spending is focused on helping to re- build Canada’s economic strength while keeping taxes low. While the stimulus spending within our Economic Action Plan is critical now, it is equally important that Canada’s deficit spending be short-term. That’s why the stimulus measures in the Action Plan are temporary and time-limited, not permanent. This includes measures like the Home Renovation Tax Credit, which gives Canadians an incentive to invest in home upgrades now. By creating temporary solutions, we are making sure that Canada can return to balanced budgets as quickly as possible without risking our recovery or saddling future generations with unnecessary debt.

Yet right now, as Canada’s Economic Action Plan is more than 90% allocated, our recovery is being threatened by the prospect of an unnecessary election. Now is the time that we need to stay the course and ensure that all of these stimulus measures are allowed to benefit our communities where they are so needed.

Our Conservative government is putting this plan into action to help to fortify Canada’s economy and ensure that Canadians prosper for years to come. While the Opposition threatens Canadians with an election that no one wants, we will continue to implement our Economic Action Plan, and work to ensure Canada and Northern Alberta’s strong recovery.

Sincerely,

Brian Jean, MP
Fort McMurray - Athabasca
Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Transport, Infrastructure & Communities