October 27, 2017, CENTREVILLE (GNB) — The provincial government and the Western Valley Regional Service Commission signed a memorandum of understanding today that will encourage collaboration among partners in the region to help grow the local economy.
“Growing New Brunswick’s economy requires a strong co-ordinated approach at all levels,” said Agriculture, Mines and Rural Affairs Minister Andrew Harvey. “The New Brunswick Economic Growth Plan identifies local and regional economic development as an important element. We are pleased to work with the leaders and stakeholders in the Western Valley Regional Service Commission to boost the local economy and support families and workers in the region.”
Harvey signed the agreement on behalf of Economic Development Minister Francine Landry, who is also the minister responsible for Opportunities NB.
Today’s 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. 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.
“We are pleased to take part in this initiative,” said Elaine English, chair of the Western Valley Regional Service Commission. “We have great companies in our region, and we benefit from a post-secondary institution and local economic development officers. By bringing together all the local stakeholders in the western valley, we will be better able to grow our economy.”
Under the agreement, Opportunities NB will place a community economic development executive in the western valley 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.