Canadian chamber backs NWT needs
Dawn Ostrem
Northern News Services
Ottawa (Nov 13/00) - The North has a new cheerleader in Ottawa.
The Canadian Chamber of Commerce is backing a proposal from the NWT chamber that asks the federal government to treat the North differently on funding.
 Bob Brooks |
Representing the North were chamber president Kevin Diebold of Norman Wells, executive director Bob Brooks, Don Yamkowy, Yellowknife chamber president John Ondrack, and Vi Beck, co-ordinator of member services.
Brooks said it's important to get as many people on the North's side as possible.
"If you can get as many bodies as possible to lobby on your behalf the better chance it will get done," said Brooks. "Especially in an election year."
The federal department of transportation is now deciding how to spend $600 million in highway funding.
"We were there to reconfirm how important it is that this go ahead and talk to them about funding it by project (and not just population)," Brooks said, specifying a bridge over the Mackenzie River and construction between Rae and Yellowknife as important issues.
In a press release, Diebold said he reminded delegates that road systems like the Mackenzie Valley highway are "important and essential links in the national highway system.
"Ensuring that a viable and effective transportation system is in place helps in our nation building and helps to protect our sovereignty," said Diebold.
As well, the Canadian chamber is lobbying to get oil and gas involved in a corporate tax credit system. The NWT chamber suggested mining be included in that and received unanimous support.
