Vancouver, April 4, 2012
2012-040
The Honourable Jim Flaherty, Minister of Finance, today highlighted key elements of Economic Action Plan 2012 that will create jobs and long-term prosperity in British Columbia and country-wide.
Speaking to the Vancouver Board of Trade, Minister Flaherty said, “Much like Canada as a whole, this province is blessed with an abundance of natural resources, an asset that will increasingly contribute to the prosperity of all Canadians. Economic Action Plan 2012 will make new investments to improve regulatory reviews, streamline environmental assessments, and strengthen pipeline and marine safety.”
For example, the Plan will invest $35.7 million over two years to further strengthen Canada’s tanker safety regime and support responsible energy development. In addition, it includes $101 million over the next five years to restore and modernize the Esquimalt Graving Dock.
Citing Economic Action Plan 2012’s $5.2-billion investment to renew the Canadian Coast Guard fleet, Minister Flaherty noted that this initiative will provide increased support for Canada’s maritime shipping and trade, which are vital to Canada’s export-oriented economy. It will also create jobs and generate significant economic benefits through vessel and helicopter construction and repairs and refits of existing vessels.
“Economic Action Plan 2012 will strengthen the capability of businesses in B.C., and across Canada, to better meet the challenges of the future,” said Minister Flaherty. “It will sustain economic growth, create the high-quality jobs of tomorrow, and deliver continued prosperity for generations to come.”
Mary Ann Dewey-Plante
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Finance
613-996-7861
Jack Aubry
Media Relations
Department of Finance
613-996-8080
