HP OPINION SUPPLY CHAIN ISSUES REMAIN A KEY OBSTACLE TO GROWTH FAYE LYONS Column Never more have Cana- dians understood the im- portance of the movement of goods than these past 1 years, as the wo “supply chain" became a new staple in our daily lex- oe rom the global pan- demic to the wildfires and flooding in B.C., to physical disruptions due to block- ades and strikes, the trans- portation system has suf- fered severe disruptions beyond its limits — both preventable and unavoid- able. Canada is a trading na- tion; our trade infrastruc- Jameson Glas of trade for our economy. With roughly two-thirds of our GDP value in trade ac- tivity, we rank higher than the OECD average of 56 per cent th the most recent Cana- ian on Business Conditions, supply chain remain a key obsta- cle to growth, with busi nesses expecting these challenges to persist well into next year. The competitiveness of Canadian businesses and Canada's reputation in in- ternational markets de- pends on reliable transpor- tation infrastructure that allows goods fob be moved in a timely mann On behalf of Canada's business community, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce has weighed in with its recommendations to the federal government. Firstly, the _Sovernment must 6 a long- met fonraeteustuce pro- gram that will support eco- nomic growth. In the chamber‘ 's opin- ion, Canada has a serious infrastructure deficit, which will require us to triage priorities. The Ca- nadian Chamber of Com- merce urges the govern- ment to work with busi- ness to set clear priorities on infrastructure projects that will bri measurable economic re- g ns. The government's Na tional Trade Corridor: Fund (NTCF) is a postive step forward. While it supporting Worthwhile projects in key areas, the government must work to increase the speed at which projects receive funding. Secondly, the govern- ment must adopt a formal vision for our trade corri- dors. Buying? Selling Re-financing? (@- | RUCmielar-Relleltca- la 905-845-0767 ext. 223 T: 905-845-0767 - F: 905-845-5552 aie: Here to Help You! ) ¥ Patient Counselling v¥ Complete Diabetic Care v Home Visits Y Consultations V Free RX Delivery V Free Nutrition Counselling ¥ Vaccinations ¥ Cholesterol, AIC, AFib and DNA Screening DE RANGO PHARMACY INC. www.shoppersdrugmart.ca While the NTCF is a key pillar, the government cur- rently lacks an overall vi- sion for our trade dors The business to (Govelon new gateway strategies. These strategies should be guided by a vision n that oration of business stake- holders, such as port au- termi- firms, shippers, industries and key associations. ese strategies will al- so set the tone for invest- ments across all levels of government the pri- vate sector. Lastly, all levels of gov- ernment must address the labour shortage. Canada has labour shortages in a number of key sectors, in- cluding trucking, that will become more urgent as the last of the baby boomers re- tire. The federal government must collaborate more closely with provincial, territorial and municipal governments, and with the private sector, including businesses and chambers of commerce, to better un- derstand labour market needs across the country. To address these issues, the Oakville Chamber of Commerce — in partner- ship with chambers of com- merce in Milton, Missis- sauga and Brampton — founded the Halton Peel Chain Council. transportation and logistics companies were invited to join the council to focus on the ad- vancement of the supply chain through resources from. collaboration and in- formati to tech- nology ‘and talent recruit- ment port supply chain issues and economic . Billions of dollars of goods travel to and from the Halton-Peel regional + acne on a daily basis, making Halton - Peela stra- tegic location for national 2 Aepeinuy. | Jones oNA¥eO | 6 and international ware- 9 On behalf of our mem- bers, the Oakville Cham- ber— with the Halton-Peel Supply Chain Council rec- ommendations and togeth- er with the Canadian Chamber of Commerce — will work to ensure that Canada's most pressing supply chain issues are top of mind. For more information on the Halton-Peel Supply Chain Council, please con- Faye Lyons is the vice- president of government The council's efforts relations and advocacy for will provide policy direc- the Oakville Chamber of ion and recommendations Commerce. She can be to all levels of reached at on directives that will sup- lechamber.com. IndividualyCorporationyceirust Payroll, HST including Tax Amnesty, & Reassessments Tax Audit, & Appeal CRA Collection Instalment Taxpayer Relief and Fairness Resolution Chartered Professional Accountant. Member of Canadian Tax Foundation (647) 989-1276 yy@yangaccounting.ca Oakville Office: (289) 291-3924 Toronto Office: (647) 255-8049 For an affordable solution to your Business and Individual tax difficulties ... e an Appointment Today for a Free Confidential Consultation woo"uoy}EYyepIsUt