November 3, 2017, EDMUNDSTON (GNB) – The Northwest Regional Service Commission is the latest regional service commission to sign a memorandum of understanding with the provincial government that encourages collaboration among partners to help grow the local economy.
“Economic and community growth requires collaboration and a co-ordinated approach,” said Economic Development Minister Francine Landry, who is also the minister responsible for Opportunities NB. “By working together with our local and regional partners, we can build on current successes and seek new opportunities for northwestern New Brunswick.”
This agreement is part of an initiative, led by Opportunities NB, that will see similar agreements signed in the coming weeks with each of the province’s 12 commissions. To date, the Western Valley, Kent and Greater Miramichi regional service commissions have signed the agreements. The intention is to identify ways in which communications can be improved and processes streamlined in each of the regions. Local and regional stakeholders will work with provincial and federal economic development organizations to address key workforce, infrastructure and other challenges.
Opportunities NB is a Crown corporation that seeks to attract and support opportunities to grow the economy and create jobs. It provides support services for businesses across the province.
“Northwestern New Brunswick is fortunate to have existing economic development initiatives and a strong post-secondary presence,” said Michel Leblond, chair of the Northwest Regional Service Commission. “This agreement will allow us to better align our resources and work more collaboratively with government partners to strengthen our community.”
Under the agreement, Opportunities NB will place a community economic development executive in the region. The executive will meet with municipal government and local service district advisory committees, industry groups, chambers of commerce and other local and regional stakeholders on a regular basis to discuss specific economic opportunities. They will support local and regional opportunities through their connections to appropriate provincial and federal government departments and agencies.
Recruitment for the position has begun, with an employee expected to be in place in January.
MEDIA CONTACT(S):
Carolyn McCormack, communications, Opportunities NB, 506-453-8168.
