SAGUENAY, QC- Municipal leaders from across the country gathered this week in Saguenay, QC, for the Federation of Canadian Municipalities' Board of Directors meeting to discuss solutions to the issues facing Canadians in their hometowns.
"From creating local jobs, to building livable and sustainable communities, to keeping Canadians safe, municipalities are at the heart of building a strong country and providing a high quality of life for Canadians," said FCM president Brad Woodside.
Investing in Canada's hometowns remains one of the smartest ways to build our country. With every new road, bridge or transit system, we create new jobs and improve the quality of life in our communities. Housing that is affordable for newcomers, young families, the middle class and seniors alike helps build thriving communities and puts money back into our national economy. With renting and construction included, housing makes up 20% of Canada's GDP. For both new construction and renovations, an expenditure of $1 million on housing generates roughly three full-time-equivalent jobs, and a further ten indirect and ancillary jobs.
The tragedy in Lac-Mégantic and the recent destruction caused by multiple severe weather events serve as an important reminder of one of the most fundamental responsibilities of all orders governments: to keep Canadians safe. Canadians expect all levels of government to work together to keep our hometowns safe, foster economic growth, and improve the quality of life of Canadians young and old.
"Municipal leaders are leaving Saguenay united behind one message we have for all federal political parties: the solutions necessary to move Canada forward start in our hometowns, and we are ready to work together to implement them," said FCM president Brad Woodside.