October 30, 2017, MIRAMICHI (GNB) – The provincial government signed memorandums of understanding today with the Kent and Greater Miramichi regional service commissions aimed at encouraging collaboration in each region to help grow the local economies.

“The New Brunswick Economic Growth Plan identifies local and regional economic development as a key part of strengthening the province’s economy,” said Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Bill Fraser. “Strong partnerships are key to making this happen, and we are pleased to work with the leaders and stakeholders in both the Kent and Greater Miramichi regional service commissions to grow the economy in each region and to support local families and workers.”

Fraser signed the agreements on behalf of Economic Development Minister Francine Landry, who is also the minister responsible for Opportunities NB.

These agreements are 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.

“This is a great day for the Kent region,” said Maurice Maillet, chair of the Kent Regional Service Commission. “We are pleased to collaborate with our local and provincial partners to strengthen and boost the economy in this area.”

“The Greater Miramichi area is ready to grow, and we are excited to work with our partners to ensure we are all pulling in the same direction,” said Douglas Munn, chair of the Greater Miramichi Regional Service Commission. “Together, we can make great things happen.”

Under the agreement, Opportunities NB will place a community economic development executive in both regions. The executives 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 positions has begun, with employees expected to be in place in January.

Agreements with Kent and Greater Miramichi regional service commissions

From left: Seniors and Long-Term Care Minister Lisa Harris; Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Bill Fraser; and Douglas Munn, chair of the Greater Miramichi Regional Service Commission.

MEDIA CONTACT(S):

Carolyn McCormack, communications, Opportunities NB, 506-453-8168.