Minister Lebel Seeks Input from Community for Budget 2014

VAL-D'OR, QUEBEC--(Marketwired - Nov. 12, 2013) - The Honourable Denis Lebel, Minister of Infrastructure, Communities and Intergovernmental Affairs and Minister of the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec, met today with the business community and innovative people of Abitibi-Témiscamingue to obtain their ideas and suggestions for this year's federal budget.

"Our government knows that the number one priority for Canadians remains the economy. The Economic Action Plan is keeping Canada on the right track, with over 1 million net new jobs since the end of the global recession - the best growth record among all G-7 countries, said Minister Lebel. But we all know that Canada is faced with continued economic uncertainty from beyond our borders."

"That is why we want to hear from Canadians on how to better position Canada for further job creation and economic growth."

Minister Lebel announced that like past years, the federal government will be consulting with Canadians from across the country to find the best ways to strengthen Canada's economy. That includes Val-d'Or, where Minister Lebel met with local business, academic and community leaders to discuss priorities in a pre-budget roundtable.

"Consulting directly with Canadians is an integral part of the budget process," Minister Lebel added. "Many of the ideas brought forward in local pre-budget meetings have been included in the actual federal budget. We encourage everyone to participate."

Budget 2014 will focus on job creation, promoting economic growth, and securing Canada's long-term prosperity - all while returning to balanced budgets in 2015. To this end, the federal government also welcomes suggestions on how it can further improve government efficiency and reduce unnecessary spending.

Canadians are reminded that they can provide their input online, as the federal government has launched a pre-budget consultation through the federal Finance Department website. All those interested in participating can find more information at www.fin.gc.ca.