Sudbury Chamber has mixed feelings on 2016 federal budget

The 2016 federal budget got some mixed reviews from the Sudbury Chamber of Commerce.

In a news release sent out on March 23, the Chamber said that they were pleased with the investment into First Nations, but disappointed that no attention was paid to the Ring of Fire and FedNor.

“We welcome the federal government’s focus on infrastructure as a top priority in the budget,” said Karen Hourtovenko, Chair of the Board, Greater Sudbury Chamber of Commerce. “The Government of Canada has committed to investing in infrastructure but, in order for our economy to thrive, these investments must be used strategically for projects that will grow our economy.”

The chamber continues to be concerned with the deficit outlined in this budget and the time it will take to return to a balanced budget. The current budget deficit will reach $29 billion this year and next, before gradually declining to $14 billion in 2020.

“The Sudbury chamber was disappointed there was no reference to specific investment for the Ring of Fire and increased funding for FedNor,” said the news release.

“The chamber will continue its efforts to advance these causes with our local federal representatives and the appropriate government departments."