Canada’s Industry Minister made an appearance in Belleville Thursday to chat with local business and economic development leaders.
Minister Melanie Joly joined Bay of Quinte MP Chris Malette and representatives of local Chambers of Commerce and the Quinte Economic Development Commission at the Belleville Club to discuss opportunities, challenges and priorities for businesses across the Bay of Quinte region.
The discussion provided local leaders with an opportunity to share their insights directly with Minister Joly and highlight the issues that matter most to employers, entrepreneurs and investors.
Joly stated her message to these members was clear; the federal government is ready to support businesses and industries as they take bold actions to reduce dependency on the United States by investing together and pivoting toward new markets.
MP Malette said the meeting was an important opportunity to ensure local perspectives are heard in Ottawa.
“Bay of Quinte is home to a strong and innovative business community that is helping drive economic growth across our region,” said MP Chris Malette.
“I was pleased to bring together local business leaders and Minister Joly to discuss how we can attract investment, create good jobs and strengthen our economy.”
Participants discussed key issues affecting businesses and economic development, including investment attraction, workforce development, innovation, trade and long-term economic growth.
Jill Raycroft, Chief Executive Officer of the Belleville Chamber of Commerce, welcomed the opportunity for chambers to engage directly with federal leaders.
“For the Chambers and Board members to be invited to meet with Minister Joly and MP Malette is an affirmation of their role as the voice of business,” stated Raycroft.
“Today’s discussion reinforced the important role chambers play in bringing businesses together and ensuring their voices are heard,” Raycroft said.
“We had a candid conversation about the challenges facing local employers, from infrastructure constraints to accessing new markets, and it was encouraging to hear the government’s commitment to supporting businesses that are prepared to pursue new markets and strengthen Canada’s economic resilience.”
Chris King, CEO of the Quinte Economic Development Commission, emphasized the importance of collaboration.
“We were pleased to welcome Minister Joly to the Bay of Quinte region and have the opportunity to discuss the strengths, opportunities and challenges facing our local economy,” King stated. “Conversations like these are critical to ensuring federal policies and programs reflect the realities of communities like ours.”
Joe Southwell, CEO of the Quinte West Chamber of Commerce, and Duarte Da Silva, CEO of the Prince Edward County Chamber of Commerce, also welcomed the discussion.
“Given the current economic climate, the Quinte West business community and our Chamber members value practical, targeted support,” said Southwell. “We appreciate the opportunity to have a seat at the table with MP Malette and Minister Joly, and their willingness to listen and work with local chambers on the challenges businesses are facing right now.”
“Our members are small, seasonal and resilient, and they’re navigating uncertainty, rising costs, and workforce challenges,” stressed Da Silva. “Conversations with our federal representatives matter because they connect national policy to the needs of PEC businesses. The Chamber looks forward to continuing this work with all levels of government to build a strong four-season economy.”
The roundtable reflects the Government of Canada’s ongoing commitment to engaging directly with communities and business leaders to support economic growth, investment, and prosperity across the country.
