DURHAM REGION – Representatives from the Durham Region Association of REALTORS® (DRAR) recently attended a Pre-Budget Consultation with the Honourable Tony Clement, President of the Treasury Board, Minister for the Federal Economic Initiative for Northern Ontario and Member of Parliament.
DRAR Political Affairs Committee Chair Debbie Dawson, President-Elect Jane Hurst and Executive Officer B. Cail Maclean attended the round table discussion with Ajax-Pickering MP Chris Alexander, the Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade, Ontario Chamber of Commerce and representatives from the transportation, communication and manufacturing industries in Durham Region.
The Honourable Minister advised that the federal government is in the process of introducing a number of “Red Tape Reforms”, and confirmed his government’s commitment to tackling basic fundamental fiscal responsibility. He cautioned that the Canadian economy is still affected by the global economy and the possibility of the US Fiscal Cliff. However, Canada has seen unsurpassed job growth of all G7 countries; an indication of the government’s Economic Action Plan’s success.
After asking for an update on the major issues and the state of the economy in Durham Region from those present, the Honourable Minister posed a number of questions, asking attendees if there were measures the government could take to strengthen our economy in the face of global economic threats. DRAR PAC Chair Debbie Dawson outlined the REALTORS® recommendation that the Home Buyers’ Plan withdrawal amount be indexed in $2500 increments, according to the Consumer Price Index, to ensure its value is preserved for first-time buyers and is able to maintain its role as a significant economic driver. Additional suggestions included the further development of Durham’s communication infrastructure, the need for a National Transportation strategy and the need for National Transit Framework.
Durham REALTORS®, We Work Where You Live. To contact a local Durham Association REALTOR® or to search for a weekend open house or listings in your neighbourhood, please visit
www.DurhamRealEstate.org.