MBiz

T o say that the events of the last couple of months have tested the resolve and optimistic nature of northern Manitobans would be an understatement. The dominos began to fall this summer when Omnitrax announced that the Port of Churchill would not be utilized this shipping season, and dozens of employees were laid off. In addition, freight service on the rail line was reduced from twice a week to just once per week, limiting shipments of food and other essential products. On the heels of the Churchill announcement was news that Tolko Industries, which operated the pulp and paper mill in The Pas, would be closing its doors effective Dec. 2, eliminating over 300 jobs. Only days later, the Aseneskak Casino announced a desire to relocate from The Pas, which would put more residents out of work. The resource sector has been the dominant industry and employer in northern Manitoba for decades, and long-time residents will tell you there is always a sense of uncertainty and anxiety for the future of their communities as a result. This is an issue that various groups, organizations, communities and levels of government have been attempting to find a solution to for decades — but with no resolve. Earlier this month, Manitoba's Growth, Enterprise and Trade Minister Cliff Cullen announced the creation of a task force to lead the process of implementing the Manitoba government's Northern Economic Development Strategy, and he asked the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce to co-chair the task force. In a news release regarding the announcement, Cullen stated that the, "government recognizes the need for economic diversification and development in our province's north." He added that the province is, "undertaking an in- depth process to engage communities and stakeholders in the partnerships necessary for the attraction of new businesses, the development of entrepreneurial opportunities and the expansion of existing expertise and investment." The Manitoba Chambers of Commerce (MCC) applauds the government for taking this proactive measure, which we have long been calling for to address the economic challenges facing the North. While many would like to see both the provincial and federal governments step in to provide short-term solutions to address the current situation, the MCC views this as a visionary opportunity to see the North fulfill its immense potential, especially in the areas of transportation and commerce, tourism and heritage, sustainable economic development, export, mining and health care for the Indigenous peoples. The Port of Churchill's viability is more than Manitoba's issue alone, and it's about more than the movement of grain. It is the gateway to the central Arctic and its future is important to all of Canada. Part of this strategic direction would be to work on the enhancement of the Port and the surrounding areas, and to look for innovative solutions and opportunities together with a number of collaborative partnerships. MCC has long viewed northern Manitoba as a key asset and a region full of potential for growth and opportunity to support the provincial economy. Our hope is that through this process we will develop a forward-looking and proactive strategy that will unleash the North's true potential and provide northern residents with optimism for the future rather than uncertainty. ■ Unlocking the North's True Potential MCC CO-CHAIRS TASK FORCE TO DEVELOP LONG-TERM STRATEGY By Manitoba Chambers of Commerce NORTHERN MANITOBA'S ECONOMY

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