| Coalition urges Prime Minister to combat “manufacturing crisis”
In
November, the Canadian Manufacturing Coalition (CMC) sent a letter to
Prime Minister Stephen Harper urging him to address what they describe
as the “manufacturing crisis” in Canada. Let’s hope Canada Post
delivers the letter and someone in Ottawa takes the time to read it.
The
CMC brings together 22 manufacturing associations so they can speak
with one voice on major issues. The CMC represents the automotive,
aerospace, mining, forestry and consumer products industries.
Here’s
what their chief spokesperson, Jayson Myers, Chief Economist of the
Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters had to say in the news release
promoting the lobbying effort. “Manufacturers across Canada are facing
unprecedented challenges today, and unless they are addressed, the
wealth creating capacity of the Canadian economy is at stake.” To read
the letter, visit www.cme-mec.ca
The CMC dismissed any suggestions that government action will be perceived as “handouts.”
“Manufacturing
industries are not looking for handouts; they are looking for a more
level playing field with the rest of the world and a more attractive
investment environment in Canada: we need the federal government to let
manufacturers use their earnings more effectively to boost
competitiveness and productivity.”
The group also
issued some specific recommendations to help manufacturers through the
tough spell they find themselves in. While the group has called for
many of these measures before — such as allowing a two-year write off
for investments in new technologies, lower taxes, better research and
development credits, and training credits — maybe now they’ll get more
attention.
While sending letters demanding action
isn’t the only way to convince a government to act, it can’t hurt. And
to that end, if you want to add a comment of your own to Prime Minister
Stephen Harper, you can send it to him at: pm@pm.gc.ca If you get any type of reply, please let us know and we’ll be happy to pass that along to the rest of our readers.
Todd Phillips, Contributing Editor
tphillipsphillips@clbmedia.ca
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