Kamloops - Cathy McLeod, Member of Parliament for Kamloops - Thompson - Cariboo hosted a pre-budget consultation Thursday in Kamloops featuring the Honourable Jim Flaherty, Minister of Finance. There were 24 participants in attendance including representatives of local government, tourism, cattlemen, forestry, First Nations, rural communities and individuals.
“I was extremely pleased with the quality of the presentations,” said McLeod. “I think the Finance Minister certainly heard clearly some unique perspectives. For example, the group from 100 Mile House was seeking support to develop a local hemp industry.”
“The recommendations made during the consultations will help shape the next phase of the Government’s Economic Action Plan and the return to fiscal balance,” said Minister Flaherty.
“It was a great diversity of ideas. It was a good idea on behalf of the Minister of Finance to get this. It demonstrates that we need more collective wisdom,” said Randy M. Hedlund, a constituent participant from Clearwater.
These Economic Action Plan consultations compliment the broad economic consultations that the Prime Minister and individual Members of Parliament are conducting across the country to listen to Canadians. The Finance Minister’s consultations will include a number of roundtables with accomplished Canadians and continued consultation with his Economic Advisory Council.
“I want to remind everyone that it is not too late to share your thoughts regarding Budget 2011, as the government is currently conducting online consultations. Those wishing to make submissions can do so by visiting www.fin.gc.ca,” concluded McLeod.