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NLIS 7
December 7, 2000
(Development and Rural Renewal)

 

Rural Forum responds to Jobs and Growth recommendations

A unique three-day event to showcase and promote the growth of the economic and business successes of rural Newfoundland and Labrador is planned for the spring of 2001.

Rural Forum 2001 will build on the major shift in attitude and growing confidence that is taking place in the province and that was so evident during the Jobs and Growth consultations, said Ernie McLean, acting Minister of Development and Rural Renewal.

Mr. McLean said that one of the things that became evident during the consultations was the critical role that confidence and positive attitude can play in moving the economy forward.

"Presenters emphasized the role of attitude as a tool for economic development in its own right. They told the Cabinet Committee on Jobs and Growth that it is just as important as other tools, such as access to business financing," he said. "Without a positive attitude, without a firm belief in ourselves and in our ability to succeed, we limit our chances to move forward."

It was in that context that presenters urged government to be more active in promoting the multitude of economic opportunities that are available, and in showcasing the successes that have emerged in recent years, especially in rural areas.

"Rural Forum 2001 responds to that challenge," Mr. McLean said.

Rural Forum 2001, to be held in Gander, will "bring together the best of rural Newfoundland and Labrador business, culture and community. Until now, there has been no single province-wide showcase event to celebrate the achievements and promote the economic potential of rural Newfoundland and Labrador."

The three-day forum will have four main components:

  • First, a Conference Program will include a series of presentations, seminars and workshops led by experienced individuals who will focus on approaches and practices for community and business development that work best in rural Newfoundland and Labrador.

  • Second, a Rural Business Exhibition will showcase successful rural businesses and entrepreneurs from around the province and spanning all sectors of the economy. It will also profile the role various community economic development organizations can play in promoting economic opportunity and successful business enterprises.

  • Third, a Youth Forum will engage the leaders of tomorrow in a round table discussion and debate with today�s business, community and provincial leaders on a youth perspective for economic and community development.

  • And fourth, the first annual Community Economic Development Awards banquet will recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of individuals and organizations who have excelled as leaders in community economic development in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Mr. McLean said that, in addition to the four cornerstone events, the Department of Development and Rural Renewal is considering others, including a Taste of Newfoundland and Labrador Internet Caf�. The Caf� would feature the products and capabilities of our growing agrifoods industry, as well as the technological abilities of the province�s rapidly expanding information technology industry.

The department will be engaging community, youth, business and other stakeholders over the next several months in the organizational planning for Rural Forum 2001 and will provide more details on this exciting event early in the new year.

Mr. McLean noted that the forum is one of several initiatives announced to date in response to what was recommended to government during the Jobs and Growth consultations. Others have included two new programs in the Department of Development and Rural Renewal to support the development of small businesses, and two new venture capital tax credit investment programs.

Media contact: Josephine Cheeseman, Communications (709) 729-4570

2000 12 07             2:30 p.m.



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