Board can foster growth: MP

Gerry Byrne had a message for the Greater Corner Brook Board of Trade on Thursday and that’s not to buy into the idea of doom and gloom that now prevails in the province.

Provincially, things may not be looking the best, but Corner Brook’s economy has been stable and there are opportunities for growth, the MP said.

During a breakfast at the Greenwood Inn and Suites, Byrne said the board has a role to play in fostering stronger economic development and growth for the city.

He challenged the board to look at issues external to Corner Brook.

“Build networks outside of Corner Brook, build relationships outside of Corner Brook, understand the marketplace that exists outside of Corner Brook and in exchange that relationship will actually help in the advocacy effort, the lobbying effort to get government to understand the benefits and value of investing in post-secondary education and our hospital.”

On the hospital, Byrne said from a purely social point it needs to proceed as health care is a basic right. But from an economic point of view, the construction would help stimulate the economy of the entire region, he said.

Byrne also touched on the sawmill and lumber industry, the fishery and tourism as areas the board needs to be involved in.

And he addressed the position the board has taken on Marine Atlantic’s fare reduction on the Argentia to North Sydney run, calling it a breath of fresh air from a new voice. Byrne said reducing the rates is the right thing to do, but it should be done across the board.