Election 2019: Federal Platform

The Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce has identified these key issues:

Changes to Regulatory and Taxation system

The tax system has not been updated since the 1960’s and is inefficient in the context of the modern economy (internet economy)
When we have an inefficient and complex tax system, it hampers investment and in turn creation
Consider appointing a royal commission to conduct a review and suggest changes to the system
Include a tie-in to how we might change the taxation system to help balance the budget
Address taxes on alcoholic beverages

Helping Small and Medium Sized Business

Raise the filing threshold for small business - the current threshold is $30,000, set in 1991
Increase SMEs ability to export goods through realistic federal support programs
Work with SME owners to flesh out the issues that a large percentage face
Identify and eliminate the compliance, audit, and communication problems SMEs face in dealing with the CRA

Innovation in Technology

“Canada has fallen behind in research and technology. We rank 22nd in the world in capacity for innovation, 22nd in technological readiness, and 27th in company spending on R&D.” GNCC platform
Create government positions to oversee and regulate innovation specifically in the field of technology
We need to update our physical infrastructure to utilize the latest technological advances (5G) and be prepared for the innovations of the near future

Healthcare and Pharmacare

Some national parties advocate for a national pharmacare plan, if this happens it needs to provide an advantage over current provincial plans
Plan needs to include coverage for medicines for rare diseases and other expensive medications
Government officials should consult with private industry professionals to avoid any problems with the transition, like loss of coverage or cost issues

Community and Environmental well being

Strategies to promote innovation and not stifle investment: Utilize carbon taxation, grants for increasing efficiency, electric vehicle incentives, government investment in renewables, incentives for use of green processes as part of a plan to be environmentally friendly
Increase in public transit through grants to municipalities and firms who are innovating in the industry
Use green innovation and program implementation to create jobs

A Skilled and Educated Workforce

Work with firms to fund retraining programs
Work with businesses to ensure that school curriculum aligns with the skills needed for today’s workforce
With the advance in technology even those working in technological industries require retraining to keep up with innovation
Ensuring that the rural and indigenous workforce is getting the same opportunities as the Urban population

Trade – Breaking Barriers to Innovation

Complete negotiations in Latin America (Mercosur and Pacific Alliance)
Commence trade negotiations with ASEAN countries
Work with provincial and territorial governments to free up movement of goods, services, and labor
Conduct a review of the Canadian Free Trade Agreement (CFTA)