This release was issued under a previous government.
RMWB Small Business Roundtable
Government has also confirmed its intention to prefer local companies in recovery contracts.
“Businesses in Fort McMurray were already struggling from the prolonged collapse in the price of oil. The wildfire and subsequent evacuations have had a devastating impact on employers in the region. In co-operation with our partners – from insurers to the Red Cross – we are committed to assisting employers in the Fort McMurray area to get access to the resources they need in their return to the community.”
The Government announced its intention to work with local suppliers for any recovery-related procurement under provincial jurisdiction, providing a preference for competitive bids from local firms. The Government of Alberta will also provide support to an on-the-ground small business support centre, partnering with the RMWB, targeted at providing a space for businesses to get access to information, workspace and information on recovery-related contracts.
“We know the health of the business community in Fort McMurray is integral to the health of the community as a whole. Our government is committed to supporting Fort McMurray residents throughout the recovery process, and part of that is ensuring local residents and businesses can find work helping to rebuild their community. We are behind Fort McMurray and will continue to work with all of our partners to ensure that happens as we see this recovery through.”
“The RMWB shares the Government of Alberta’s commitment to supporting small business in their return to Fort McMurray, and in providing opportunities for local companies with competitive bids in the municipality’s contracts for rebuilding. Fort McMurray should rebuild Fort McMurray.”
The announcement follows a meeting Wednesday involving Ministers Bilous and Larivee and:
- RMWB
- Alberta Chambers of Commerce
- Fort McMurray Chamber of Commerce
- Canadian Red Cross
- Insurance Bureau of Canada
- Athabasca Tribal Council
- Northeastern Alberta Aboriginal Business Association
- local small businesses