Written by
Robin Cooke
—
February 22, 2024
Proposed changes will help get people out of traffic, build more homes and keep costs down for people and businesses
February 20, 2024
Today, the Ontario government introduced legislation that, if passed, would make it easier and faster to build transit, housing and other critical infrastructure. The Get It Done Act would also help people keep more of their hard-earned money by banning new tolls on provincial highways and give them a veto over any future provincial carbon tax.
“Our government made a promise to get it done,” said Prabmeet Sarkaria, Minister of Transportation. “Under the leadership of Premier Ford, we’re delivering on that promise. We’re rebuilding our economy with better jobs and bigger paycheques. While previous governments neglected critical infrastructure, we’re getting shovels in the ground to build roads, highways and houses while we keep costs down for people and businesses. We’re getting it done.”
Province streamlining process to connect public EV charging stations to the grid
The Ontario government is making it easier to build and connect new public electric vehicle (EV) chargers to the province’s world-class clean electricity grid. Starting May 27, 2024, all local utilities will follow a streamlined process for EV charging connections that will make it easier to set up new charging stations and support the adoption of electric vehicles in Ontario.
“As the number of EV owners in Ontario continues to grow, our government is making it easier to put shovels in the ground to build the critical infrastructure needed for drivers to charge their vehicles where and when they need to,” said Todd Smith, Minister of Energy. “This is just another step we are taking to reduce red tape, increase EV adoption, and use our clean electricity supply to support the electrification of Ontario’s transportation sector.”
Canada has unique generational opportunity to develop a workforce with the skills and knowledge to thrive in — and build — a net-zero economy. With an aging population, widespread labour shortages and over 800,000 vacant jobs in 2023, strategic workforce planning is more important than ever.
The Canadian Chamber of Commerce's new report, “Building Canada’s Net-Zero Workforce,” developed in collaboration with the Delphi Group on behalf of our Net-Zero Council, proposes the development of a federal net-zero workforce plan and outlines key recommendations for its successful implementation.
Charmaine's commitment to the next generation shines through her role as a mentor and advisor, where she actively supports and guides young individuals. Her philanthropic spirit extends to her involvement with charitable organizations like Canucks Autism Network and Big Sisters BC, where she serves on the board.
Over the course of her illustrious career, she was appointed as a Member of the Order of Canada in 2012, a testament to her significant impact on society. Additionally, she has been honored with four federal government athlete excellence awards, including prestigious titles like the John Basset Memorial Award, Olympic Champion Award, Bruce Kidd Athletic Leadership Award, and the Governor General’s Community Service Award.
Don't miss this chance to be inspired by a truly exception Canadian - limited tickets available!
On February 7, the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) released its eighth annual Ontario Economic Report (OER). This year’s OER reveals a provincial economy under strain. Business confidence continues to decline post-pandemic, real GDP-per-capita is falling, and the economy is hampered by inflation, interest rates, skills gaps and prolonged uncertainty. Despite these challenges, Ontario has avoided a significant economic contraction and inflation and labour shortages are gradually easing. Read the release.
The report presents a path forward, focused on a principled growth strategy that prioritizes a skilled, inclusive labour force, smart and sustainable infrastructure, a competitive business environment, and healthy communities.
Rise and shine with the Chamber's GREEN breakfast that's as good for you as it is for the planet! Start your day with a burst of freshness and energy.
Join speaker Mike Moroney, St. Clair River Remedial Action Plan Coordinator for an overview of the successes of the Remedial Action Plan in restoring the St. Clair River. Register today and lets make the morning greener and brighter together.
Join the Chamber's Young Professionals Network, tailored for aspiring entrepreneurs, professionals, and emerging community leaders. Our vision is to cultivate the next generation of leaders in Sarnia Lambton by offering a relaxed setting for learning and networking.
Together, we aim to retain young talent in our community, increase representation of Young Professionals in the Chamber, and amplify their voices in our local community. This month, join us at The Insignia Hotel, where our experts in Mental Health at Work will be available to address any questions you may have. Let's connect and grow together!
The City is currently reviewing its Business Licensing By-Law(External link) as it relates to refreshment vehicles such as food trucks, with a specific focus on where such vehicles are licensed to operate within the community. Changes to the by-law could possibly expand the potential locations such vehicles are allowed to operate, particularly on private property.
Please continue reading to learn more about current restrictions on the licensing of refreshment vehicles and how you can provide your insight.
Welcome to Our Newest
Chamber Member!
Emily Jacques-Hawco Art
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Mental health promotion is the process of enhancing an individual’s capacity to increase control over their lives and improve their mental health. Mental health promotion is not just about focusing on risk factors for mental illness but seeks to create and support environments that enhance positive mental health. Promoting mental health requires that mental and physical health be considered together, not independently, as “there is no health without mental health.”
In workplaces, mental health promotion strategies can help organizations achieve their potential by promoting employee health. This may include activities, initiatives, and/or policies developed to continually enhance the well-being of all working populations. It is important to remember that results don’t happen overnight; but a commitment and dedication to implementing mental health promotion strategies can result in a positive change. Learn more about how you can begin to impact positive change in your workplace.
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Membership Has Its Advantages
How Canadians do business has changed. To stay competitive and grow, small and medium-sized businesses need to adopt new digital tools.
In Budget 2021, the Government of Canada announced the $4 billion Canada Digital Adoption Program (CDAP) to help get your business online, give your e-commerce presence a boost or help digitalize your business's operations.
CDAP provides funding and support to businesses, as well as training and work opportunities for young Canadians.
In the digital age, it's crucial for consumer-facing businesses to develop and implement e-commerce capabilities to remain competitive. The adoption of digital technologies enables businesses to serve existing customers more effectively and to attract new customers in the digital marketplace.
Join the people who get things done. We are the hub for business communication and collaboration. Your membership provides you with a connection to local businesses, events, seminars, and member exclusive deals. We invite you to enjoy all that we have to offer.