Understanding the rural development dilemma
By Nelson Daily Staff
A robust small business and tourism sector is essential for the development of a
sustainable and diverse rural economy, said Joyce Murray, Liberal MP for Vancouver Quadra and former BC Environment Minister.
Murray met with community leaders from Fernie, Kimberley, Cranbrook and the Creston Valley on Thursday.
She heard about the enormous opportunities in the recreation and resource rich
area, but also that marketing, infrastructure and skills training strategies were not
being implemented to support the full development of these opportunities.
“During this time of economic uncertainty, the Conservative government is still
preparing to cut corporate taxes for the largest companies in Canada,” said Murray.
“Instead they need to help grow small and medium sized businesses – the job creators
and real engines of our economy. No one is asking for a hand-out, but there is much
more that can be done.”
Following their Summer Caucus meetings held earlier this week, Liberals called on
the federal government to focus on jobs, not cuts, she added.
Murray will continue her tour of the Kootenay region next Tuesday, Sept. 6 with meetings in Nelson, Castlegar and Trail.
