MINISTER OF STATE FOR INDUSTRY AND ADVANCED MANUFACTURING (2005)

 

To date we have been complacent in relying on the easy extraction of resources and at the same time subjected ourselves to the uncertainties of commodity markets.   Our successful future economy hinges on developing a diverse economy that provides balance and security to our province.  

 

BC needs to develop a strategy that focuses on the retention and attraction of industry and advanced manufacturing investment in BC.  A strategy is needed which will allow BC to grow on past successes and develop into one of the world's top sites for investment.

 

Efforts must be made to create a business environment that will:

 

·  allow existing industrial and manufacturing firms to expand and improve their capacity to compete effectively;

·  attract new operations to BC;

·  encourage  research and development; and

·  encourage productivity.

 

As well, the provincial strategy must expand beyond the lower mainland to encourage development where there is capacity to absorb and foster new businesses.

 

THE CHAMBER RECOMMENDS:

That the provincial government create the position of Minister of State for Industry and Advanced Manufacturing with special responsibility for identifying advanced manufacturing industry in BC and ensuring that special consideration be given to this important sector.