Giovanna Mingarelli expects real benefits for Prescott-Russell-Cumberland from the federal government Spring Economic Update report. (File photo)
MP Giovanna Mingarelli says there are lots of potential benefits for her riding in the federal government’s spring economic report.
The Prescott-Russell-Cumberland Liberal MP sent an email response May 6 in answer to a request for comment by EAP.
“The Spring Economic Update includes measures that speak directly to priorities in Prescott-Russell-Cumberland,” stated Mingarelli, “including affordability, housing, skilled trades, industry, agriculture and food security, official languages, and community infrastructure.”
The MP noted “important opportunities” for the riding through investment by the Team Canada Strong program for recruiting, training and hired of new skilled trades workers. The program’s target goal is to increase the number of skilled tradespeople in Canada by between 80,000 by the 2030-2031 fiscal year. The program includes a new apprenticeship grant component of $400 per week up to a maximum of $16,000 for each apprentice for in-class training.
“The Building Communities Strong Fund could also help support local infrastructure, including community centres, youth spaces, recreation facilities, and gathering places that are essential in rural communities,” stated Mingarelli. “The update also includes $660 million over five years, plus $110 million ongoing to strengthen sport and recreation infrastructure across Canada.”
The MP indicated she is paying “close attention” to the impact of the Trump tariffs on local industry, agriculture, businesses, and others in the riding, and what federal support exists or is proposed to help those affected.
Mingarelli hosted a special gathering May 4 in Vars that featured Minister of Industry Melanie Joly and Evan Solomon, minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario as special guests. Mario Zanth, Clarence-Rockland mayor and current warden of the United Counties of Prescott and Russell, Russell Township Mayor Mike Tarnowski, and other Ontario MPs attended to hear Joly and Solomon announce federal measures to help businesses affected by the U.S. tariffs, including a $1 billion program through the Business Development Bank of Canada and a $500 million Regional Tariff Response Initiative.
“These measures will help Canadian businesses, including those in the steel, aluminum and copper sectors adapt,” stated Mingarelli, “remain competitive, and protect good jobs here at home, including Prescott-Russell-Cumberland. Municipalities, non-profits, cultural organizations, and local partners should begin identifying priority projects, updating cost estimates, and building partnerships so they are ready when application details become available.”
