Minister Aglukkaq Hosts Pre-Budget Consultation in Iqaluit

Government on track to achieve balanced budget in 2015

IQALUIT, Jan. 12, 2015 /CNW/ - Minister Leona Aglukkaq today hosted a pre-Budget roundtable discussion in Iqaluit, Nunavut with business, industry and government leaders. The meeting is part of consultations aimed at engaging Northerners about Canada's Economic Action Plan 2015.

The Minister asked participants to provide their input on actions the Government of Canada can take to help businesses grow, increase trade and investment, and encourage the private sector to create new jobs.

Quick Facts

• According to the Conference Board of Canada's Centre for the North, Nunavut's gross domestic product in the territory is forecast to grow 6.8% in 2015. 
• Since its creation, the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor) has invested over $208 million in more than 950 projects across the three territories contributing to business and community capacity, strengthening local infrastructure, and improving participation in the labour market. 
• On April 1, 2014 CanNor launched the Northern Aboriginal Economic Opportunities Program which is opportunity-driven, focused on results, and geared towards maximizing economic opportunities for Aboriginal communities and businesses. 

Quote

"Our Government is committed to creating jobs and growth for Northerners and all Canadians. Northerners are the true experts on the North, which is why each year I meet and consult directly with Northerners in advance of the Budget to ensure their voice is heard. Today I was happy to once again consult directly with Northerners and to hear first-hand the views of Nunavummiut on how we can continue to foster long term prosperity and a strong economy in Northern communities."

The Honourable Leona Aglukkaq
Minister of the Environment, Minister of the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency, and Minister for the Arctic Council

Associated Links

Department of Finance Update of Economic and Fiscal Projections
http://www.budget.gc.ca/efp-peb/2014/pub/toc-tdm-eng.html

Department of Finance Consulting with Canadians
http://www.fin.gc.ca/prebudget-prebudgetaire/page-1.aspx?lang=1

SOURCE Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor)

Office of the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Ted Laking, 819-997-1441; Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency, Craig Welsh, Communications Advisor, 867-975-3722