Budget 2012 preserves our Canadian economic advantage: Clement

NEWS RELEASE

FEDNOR

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Minister Clement outlines benefits of Budget 2012 for Sault Ste. Marie and the region

SAULT STE. MARIE - The Honourable Tony Clement, president of the Treasury Board and minister for FedNor, was in Sault Ste. Marie today to meet with local stakeholders and to highlight the benefits of Budget 2012 for the City of Sault Ste. Marie and Northern Ontario.

Minister Clement started his visit with a breakfast meeting organized by the Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce.

He told local business and community leaders that Budget 2012 is a prudent approach that will maintain the vital services that Canadians expect and deserve.

“Budget 2012 outlines measures that will keep taxes and debt low while returning the country to a balanced budget,” said Minister Clement. “From the outset, our government’s approach has been to help Canadians take advantage of opportunities in the global economy while ensuring the sustainability of social programs for generations to come.”

During his visit, Minister Clement also joined Tourism Sault Ste. Marie stakeholders at the Essar Centre.

There he identified actions that will help address labour market shortages.

“The Government of Canada is investing $50 million through the Youth Employment Strategy to help more young people gain skills and experience, and connect them with jobs in fields that are in high demand," stated Minister Clement. “Our success as a nation depends upon unleashing the full productive potential of all Canadians, especially our youth.”

The Minister concluded his visit to Sault Ste. Marie by touring Flakeboard’s melamine lamination plant in the city’s west end.

Speaking to Flakeboard employees and other stakeholders, Minister Clement highlighted the Government of Canada’s renewed commitment to research and development, as well as innovation.

“By focusing on growth and prosperity, we are cultivating an environment where business can thrive and create jobs,” explained Minister Clement. “Budget 2012 sets a course to a balanced budget at an appropriate pace, preserving our Canadian economic advantage now and in the future.”

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