OTTAWA, ON - The Federation of Canadian Municipalities' Board of Directors wrapped up its annual Advocacy Days meetings in Ottawa on November 21. One hundred municipal leaders met with 145 parliamentarians during a three-day period to discuss solutions to national issues playing out in our hometowns.
FCM launched its Hometown Proud Campaign as part of Advocacy Days. FCM wants to hear from Canadians about how they are connected to their hometowns, and how we can work together to make communities even better.
Finance Minister Joe Oliver addressed the municipal leaders during the week, as did the leader of the Official Opposition, Tom Mulcair, and the Deputy Liberal Leader Ralph Goodale. Municipal officials also met with Liberal Leader Justin Trudeau and Senior Cabinet Ministers.
"Across the board our message was clear and well received. We need to build a Canada where our cities and towns are more innovative, our communities more liveable, our streets safer and where we contribute to a cleaner environment and a more connected world. These are values that cross party lines, they are values held by Canadians," said FCM President Brad Woodside.
In anticipation of a federal election in 2015, an intensive week of multi-party discussions has set forth a comprehensive agenda for driving strong, sustainable and balanced growth for the Canadian economy. Major issues included infrastructure, affordable housing, public safety and the environment. FCM was successful in establishing the relationship between thriving hometowns, and Canada's continued economic vitality. The need for working in partnership was emphasized, as all orders of government must ensure that communities remain the engines of local jobs and growth, while also providing the full range of services that families, seniors, and all Canadians need and expect.
"Time and again, we stated that Canada's well-being depends on the capacity of cities and towns to be hubs for social innovation and economic development. MPs recognized and agreed that strong hometowns are essential to Canada's continued prosperity," said FCM President Brad Woodside.