|
 (June 15/09)
By Luc Erjavec, CRFA Vice President, Atlantic Canada
Nova Scotia’s June 9 election saw the New Democratic Party (NDP) form a government for the first time in Atlantic Canada.
Given the track record of NDP governments in other provinces such as Ontario, British Columbia, Saskatchewan and Manitoba, small business owners are justifiably concerned about what this change means for the business climate in Nova Scotia.
At CRFA, we’re hopeful that the anti-business policies implemented in other provinces by NDP governments – including higher taxes, major labour code changes and more regulations – will not find a home in Nova Scotia. During the election campaign, now-Premier Darrell Dexter promised not to increase taxes and to deliver a balanced budget in 2010. Premier Dexter claims his government will be “conservative progressive” and vows to make sure the province lives within its means.
Having thoroughly reviewed the NDP election platform, I’m pleased to report that I did not find any proposals that will have a harmful impact on the province’s foodservice industry.
During the election, CRFA worked hard to ensure the voice of foodservice operators was heard, and is in a good position to bring industry concerns to government moving forward. We have developed positive relationships with many of the MLAs expected to be leaders within the new cabinet as well as many of their key advisors. This collaborative approach included a CRFA event last year to introduce the now-Premier to leading Nova Scotia restaurateurs, and provide a forum for industry and government to share concerns and discuss common solutions.
CRFA remains committed to representing and protecting the interest of Nova Scotia’s foodservice operators and I look forward to keeping industry issues at the top of the new government’s agenda.
|
