The chamber says it wants to play a role in population growth in response to the provincial government’s action plan, presented last week.
The plan highlighted initiatives to support P.E.I.’s recruitment, retention and repatriation efforts.
“As we see the realities of the demographic shift in our province, our members have indicated that youth and immigrant retention is a top priority,” said chamber president Rory Francis.
“Government has presented an ambitious plan and we look forward to serving as the voice of business as the details unfold.”
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The chamber sees an opportunity to contribute to the province’s population growth by supporting initiatives associated with economic development.
In the past, the Chamber has advocated for a population strategy to be accompanied by an employment strategy.
The chamber says the new plan touches on some elements related to employment, but an opportunity remains to further develop that area of focus.
“While this strategy serves as an important first step, profitable investment and meaningful employment opportunities must exist for people to stay in and return to P.E.I.,” said Francis. “We see the chamber’s role as one that supports strategies related to economic development through continued advocacy efforts, facilitating connections and celebrating local business success.”
Francis added the chamber also acts as a catalyst for entrepreneurship through the Island Advance and P.E.I. Connectors programs.
The chamber says it will continue to advocate for government’s commitment to working with Islanders to ensure the province’s business environment is as welcoming and attractive as possible.
