Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters, the voice of over 10,000 leading manufacturers and exporters, is encouraged by the commitment the Government of Canada has made to support and enhance the global competitiveness of advanced manufacturing through the strong commitment to innovation and skills training with Budget 2017.
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"This is a budget that puts innovation where it belongs - as a driving force behind strategies for long-term growth in manufacturing and trade to build a
better future for middle-class Canadians," said CME President & CEO Dennis Darby upon his review of the Budget.
"Manufacturers are pleased to see government following through on our recommendation for an industry-led super cluster strategy that will focus efforts of the federal government to support advanced manufacturing and help Canadians companies to compete head-to-head in markets around the world."
Darby added that Canadian manufacturers will be first in line to work with government to establish an advanced/digital manufacturing super cluster. "We expect government will work with manufacturers to get this cluster off the ground quickly, and the need is urgent as 36 per cent of our members identify the cost and risk of seeking new opportunities as the leading domestic barrier to achieving export success."
In addition, Darby is encouraged by Budget 2017's commitments to invest in a comprehensive skills training strategy to address skills gaps that are hurting the middle class and paralyzing job creation. He stated that a full one quarter of CME's members are restricting production due to a shortage of skilled labour - with 40 percent of members experiencing labour shortages today.
"We know that Canada can't afford to leave anyone out if we are going to fix our skills gap, as availability of skills is identified as the number one factor that influences manufacturers when they are deciding where to invest in Canada. We need to invest in our people, and give them the skills and tools that will build the kind of economy they need to take care of their families and be confident in the future. It's encouraging that this budget backs up those words with action, and we look forward to being a fully engaged partner in the months ahead."
About CME Since 1871, Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters has been helping manufacturers grow at home and thrive around the world. In 2016, CME released Industrie 2030 - a roadmap for doubling Canadian manufacturing activity by 2030. Our focus is to ensure the sector is dynamic, profitable, productive, innovative and growing. We aim to do this by strengthening the labour force, accelerating the adoption of advanced technology, supporting product commercialization, expanding marketplaces and, most importantly, ensuring a globally-competitive business environment. CME is a member-driven association that directly represents more than 2,500 leading companies who account for an estimated 82 per cent of manufacturing output and 90 per cent of Canada's exports.
For more information, contact: Jeff Blay Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters Tel: (289) 241-5114 jblay@enterprisecanada.com
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