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Chamber hosts CanNor minister Thandie Vela Northern News Services Published Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Minister of the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor), Leona Aglukkaq, spoke at the event, introduced by Premier Bob McLeod, but those present who were expecting any announcements specifically for the city's business community were left disappointed. "We weren't sure if it was going to tailor to the business community or not," chamber president Larry Jacquard said. "But, we're very pleased every time that the federal and territorial ministers contact the chamber to assist them in organizing their lunches. There's always people disappointed because they are hoping to hear more announcements, but overall the people were very pleased with the lunch and a lot of people stuck around and networked." Aglukkaq's address included highlights of the federal government's Northern strategy, and the announcement of a $5.2-million investment in geoscience research. "Accurate and reliable geoscience data and research and a labour force with the right skills are essential for success," Aglukkaq said. "The data garnished from geoscience research projects will ultimately lead to new discoveries, creating new jobs, and this is opportunities and wealth for all Northerners." The three-year, multimillion-dollar project includes funding from CanNor, the GNWT Department of Industry, Tourism, and Investment, and the private sector. "(The project) reduces the exploration risks for mining companies and allows government and private industry to make informed decisions about the development of mineral resources," Aglukkaq said. The event sold out with about 130 guests representing all sectors, including the mining sector, whose members took interest in the minister's announcement. "It's always encouraging to have government monies coming into the equation," said Avalon Rare Metals Inc. chief operating officer Brian Chandler, who hosted two tables for the company at the event. Jacquard, who is among the chamber's new board appointed at the president's ball last month, said the luncheon was the first of many events the organization has planned for the term. "Because it's our 65th anniversary, we're trying to get a lot more active this year," Jacquard said, noting all nine chamber committees are now active, including the government committee, trade show committee, and the membership committee, which is preparing an improved membership package, he added. The chamber is also planning the revival of its business after-hours functions, with an event today at Merle Norman, and a second after-hours event being hosted by Force One on Thursday at its new location on Old Airport Road.
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