Industry Minister Tony Clement Hosts Economic Consultation in Parry Sound

Parry Sound, Ontario, January 5, 2011 — The Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Industry, met today with Parry Sound business leaders as part of a series of consultations the Minister will be holding with Canadians on the government's upcoming budget.

"Engaging Canadians this year in advance of what will be an important budget is essential to our government," said Minister Clement. "This meeting is the first of the consultations that I will hold across the country. I look forward to having open and frank discussions on the future of the Canadian economy and the role of government in promoting growth. We are fortunate in Canada to have returned to growth faster than many of our G7 partners. We need to ensure that we sustain our recovery."

Minister Clement began this year's round of budget consultations by meeting with members of the Parry Sound Area Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber represents the local business community in Parry Sound and is committed to the continued economic development of the region.

Grassroots Canadian business leaders are the bedrock of the Canadian economy. The government is making an effort to hear from them and other Canadians by holding consultations across the country. Through Canada's Economic Action Plan, the government has invested in job creation, economic growth, research and innovation, all of which have been instrumental in shoring up and strengthening Canada's economy over the past two years.

During these consultations, Minister Clement will be seeking Canadians' views on how the private and public sectors can work together for continued growth and improved economic competitiveness.

For further information (media only), please contact:

Gemma Collins
Director of Communications
Office of the Honourable Tony Clement
Minister of Industry
613-995-9001

Media Relations
Industry Canada
613-943-2502