• Chamber Of Commerce Says French Consulate Key To Immigration Efforts

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    Sunday, January 5, 2020


    Jan 5, 2020  by Allan Dearing

    MONCTON – The only French Consulate in Atlantic Canada was set to close in 2019 to save money but the Government of France later reversed that decision. 

    A number of organizations were instrumental in efforts to keep it open including the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Moncton. 

    With New Brunswick needing more immigrants, CEO John Wishart believes the consulate has a big role to play. 
    “There’s a part of the new immigration strategy which calls for 33 percent of all immigrants being from francophone countries. So obviously France should be a main contributor to that,” he says.

    With the new Canada-Europe Free Trade Agreement (CETA), he believes the office can help facilitate trade for the more than 57 New Brunswick companies which are currently doing business directly with France. In addition, Wishart notes how there are important language and cultural ties between l’Acadie and France which can’t be ignored.

    Alan Dearing is a news reporter with 91.9 The Bend, a Huddle content partner.
     

  • Business Truth & Reconciliation Business Truth & Reconciliation

    The Atlantic Chamber of Commerce is taking proactive steps to promote reconciliation and respect for Indigenous rights within the corporate sector. In response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Call to Action 92, the Chamber urges its members to embrace the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples as a guiding framework. This entails a commitment to meaningful consultation, fostering respectful relationships, and obtaining the free, prior, and informed consent of Indigenous peoples before embarking on economic projects. Moreover, the Chamber advocates for equitable access to employment, training, and educational opportunities for Indigenous communities, ensuring they reap sustainable benefits from economic development initiatives.

     

    Recognizing the importance of education, the Chamber encourages businesses to provide comprehensive training for management and staff on the history of Indigenous peoples, including the legacy of residential schools, Indigenous rights, and Aboriginal-Crown relations. Emphasizing intercultural competency, conflict resolution, and anti-racism, these efforts aim to foster a more inclusive and harmonious corporate environment rooted in mutual understanding and respect.

    Learn more click here