The Honourable Darlene Compton
Minister of Finance, Prince Edward Island
{Via email}
January 24, 2022
Re: Prince Edward Island Pre-Budget Letter
The Atlantic Chamber of Commerce, representing six chambers of commerce and more than 1,700 businesses across Prince Edward Island (P.E.I.) submits the following items for your consideration in the 2022-2023 Budget:
Pandemic Recovery
Islanders and businesses have been battling the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic for nearly two years. Many businesses are struggling and are patiently waiting for restrictions to wind down and the pandemic to end. While we wait for that time, it is imperative that Government communication is timely and that we focus on keeping Island businesses open while keeping the population safe. When restrictions are introduced that limit the activity of business, it is important that Government offsets that with support to the businesses that have been impacted by policy directives.
Access to qualified workers
Labour market shortages have been a consistent issue within the region. The Government of Prince Edward Island should prioritize making sure Islanders have opportunities to increase and diversify skills and that businesses have access to a labour market that meets the needs of their workforce. The province should also continue to prioritize immigration as Canada is boldly attempting to welcome 400,000 immigrants per year for the next three years. Prince Edward Island should ensure appropriate supports for immigration are in place so the provincial population can grow and strengthen the economy.
Increasing Competitiveness
All governments are facing financial difficulty, but one of the most cost-effective measures that a government can engage in is the reduction of regulatory burden. Prince Edward Island should require a business impact assessment prior to proposed regulatory and legislative changes to avoid increases to the compliance burden that reduces productivity and should also commit further resources to analyzing regulatory burden on P.E.I businesses.
We are pleased to submit these priorities to you today as you begin the key steps to charting the course for Islanders and businesses as we recover from the impacts of the pandemic. The budget is an opportunity for Government to indicate the importance of the private sector and make critical investments and policy decisions to increase competitiveness and keep the doors of business open. The Atlantic Chamber remains a willing partner for Government as Prince Edward Island takes its next steps.
Sincerely,
Sheri Somerville, CEO
Atlantic Chamber of Commerce
-
Business Truth & Reconciliation
The Atlantic Chamber of Commerce takes proactive steps to promote reconciliation and respect for Indigenous rights within the corporate sector. In response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Call to Action 92, the Chamber urges its members to embrace the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples as a guiding framework.
Recognizing the importance of education, the Chamber encourages businesses to provide comprehensive training for management and staff on the history of Indigenous peoples, including the legacy of residential schools, Indigenous rights, and Aboriginal-Crown relations. Emphasizing intercultural competency, conflict resolution, and anti-racism, these efforts aim to foster a more inclusive and harmonious corporate environment rooted in mutual understanding and respect.
Learn more click here