THUNDER BAY – The Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce is calling for a co-ordinated approach to Ontario’s reopening of the economy.
Charla Robinson, president of the business lobbying organization, said Premier Doug Ford must understand that businesses come in all shapes and sizes and the province’s reopening plan must prioritize individual safety as well as economic stability.
Among the essential elements Robinson and the Ontario Chamber of Commerce would like to see are a readiness plan to focus on sector and regions that have been hardest hit. They’d also like to see clear guidelines so businesses fully understand the rules and how they will be enforced. Additionally, they’re looking for workforce management system, calling on the province to adopt a scalable digital software tool for routine self-screening and assessment by employees.
And finally, they’re calling on the Ford government to provide continued supports for those who need it most, to prevent further layoffs, closures and bankruptcies.
“In the middle of a once-in-a-century pandemic, it is difficult to think beyond confronting the immediate demands of COVID-19,” Robinson said in a release, announcing a letter the TBCC and the Ontario Chamber of Commerce have sent to Ford.
“However, even as we continue supporting each other today, we must also begin looking ahead to ensure businesses are prepared for the province’s reopening and recovery. It is never too early to start planning how our province and economy can emerge stronger while doing everything necessary to avoid further lockdowns.”
