Lisa Thompson, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs issued this statement in follow-up to the Federal-Provincial-Territorial (FPT) Ministers of Rural Economic Development meeting in Newfoundland: “I was honoured to attend the first ever FPT Ministers of Rural Economic Development meeting on June 1 and 2 in Rocky Harbour, Newfoundland and Labrador.
It was a good opportunity to engage with ministers from across the country and with our partner Indigenous and community leaders, to strengthen local economic and community development efforts in Ontario and Canada. Supporting strong and vibrant rural communities is vital to the success of Ontario’s economy, and that is why it is important to enable communities to drive opportunities for economic growth.
Advancing rural economic development is a priority for my government, and I shared the many successes of Ontario’s rural communities during our discussions. In particular, through our commitment to building the capacity for broadband infrastructure across the province, we can strengthen rural communities and boost the local economy.
When people in rural areas can work, build businesses, stay in touch with their loved ones, and carry out everyday tasks, it helps to ensure the resiliency of these communities and attract growth. Throughout the meeting we heard about the importance of collaborating, simplifying programs, as well as the reduction of red tape for small communities so it is easier for them to apply for programs, so they can focus their efforts to supporting concrete outcomes.
I will maintain my strong advocacy for Ontario’s rural communities and look forward to continuing these important conversations with my federal, provincial and territorial colleagues.”
Source : News Ontario