MBiz

12 SPRING 2018 BY CORY KOLT P olicy over politics is a statement the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce (MCC) believes in and consistently reiterates to government officials and the Manitoba Chamber network. It is etched in how we develop policy, how we advocate, and how we position our organization when talking to leaders from all political stripes. It is also something that's reflected in the diverse range of speakers we host at our numerous events. Over the first quarter of 2018, MCC played host to seven political leaders, from the federal Liberals, federal Conservatives and the three main political parties in Manitoba. Each speaker provided attendees with a vastly different political and policy perspective. In January, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Minister Navdeep Bains brought a message from Ottawa about the importance of innovation, improving remote communities' access to high-speed internet and opening up new avenues of learning. The month of March was focused on breaking down both the federal and provincial budgets. Manitoba's senior MP in Ottawa, Jim Carr, spoke about the importance of trade and the opportunities available to Manitoba businesses. From a provincial standpoint, Finance Minister Cameron Friesen provided insight into the decision to return all money collected from the upcoming carbon tax to Manitobans. Photos by Cory Kolt POLICY OVER POLITICS Manitoba Chambers opens the door to multitude of ideas Above: MCC president & CEO Chuck Davidson with federal Innovation, Science and Economic Development Minister Navdeep Bains. Clockwise from top left: Manitoba NDP Leader Wab Kinew, provincial Finance Minister Cameron Friesen; Premier Brian Pallister; Manitoba's senior MP Jim Carr (left); Manitoba Liberal Leader Dugald Lamont. POLITICS AND THE MANITOBA CHAMBERS

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