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Chamber of Commerce working for Cranbrook business
Helen Barron, Executive Director of the Cranbrook Chamber of Commerce says the Chamber of Commerce Networks are ensuring businesses are supported through the COVID-19 crisis.
“What you are telling us is making a difference” stated Barron.
The Cranbrook Chamber of Commerce has been working diligently with the BC Chamber and the Canadian Chamber of Commerce to ensure that the voice of business is heard loud and clear by the provincial and federal governments.
The latest survey put out by the Canadian Chamber of Commerce and Stats Canada brought forward more than 13,000 businesses, bringing into focus the time pressures businesses face to avoid closing their doors insights from permanently. At the same time, the survey also shows how quickly the businesses that can are adapting to social distancing and preparing for the re-opening of the economy.
The Chamber Network is providing critical information for governments as they develop and deliver business relief programs.
With seats at both the provincial and federal COVID-19 task forces, chambers have the ear of the provincial and federal governments and they are listening.
Here are just a few of the recommendations the Chamber Network has made to our government and the results they have had.
Recommendation: Defer tax deadlines, audits and payments for individuals and businesses.
Result: Allowance for tax payments to be deferred until after August 31.
Recommendation: Provide direct support to employers to cover a significant percentage of wages paid to workers who would otherwise lose their jobs
Results:
- A wage subsidy equal to 75% of remuneration paid per employee;
- Extended EI Work Sharing program;
- Canadian Emergency Response Benefit.
Recommendations: Help affected businesses access emergency credit and capital swiftly and interest free.
Results:
- $10 billion Business Credit Availability supported by BDC and EDC;
- $300 billion of additional lending capacity via financial institutions;
Recommendation: Provide commercial rent relief.
Result: Federal program announced and soon to be implemented.
“We are so proud of how our business community is adapting to continue doing business during these uncertain times,” Barron said, adding the ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit are alive and well in Cranbrook.
Cranbrook Chamber of Commerce