Weekly Update: November 13 – 19, 2020

Red Tape Reduction Highlights

The Government of Alberta's first annual report on red tape reduction highlights the red tape burden that Albertans have to deal with which is expressed by the baseline count. The Alberta government has a baseline count of almost 671,000 regulatory requirements with a goal to reduce these requirements by more than one-third by spring 2023. Read more or read the full report. There are a number of measures that have been implemented as outlined in the report. Some of the specific red tape reduction measures that your Chamber has actively advocated for include:

• Employment Standards and Labour Relations
  Code amendments
• The Farm Freedom and Safety Act
• Reducing barriers to internal trade

Supporting Global Entrepreneurship

To support young Alberta entrepreneurs, Alberta’s government has provided multi-year grant funding to Futurpreneur, which will result in 225 new Alberta businesses being created in the next three years. Alberta’s government is also supporting entrepreneurs in the province through the $175 million recapitalization of the Alberta Enterprise Corporation and investments in its Accelerate Fund, ensuring Alberta start-ups can easily access funding. Entrepreneurs in Alberta also have access to funding, coaching, expertise and research through Alberta Innovates. Read more.

Funding for Workforce Development Agreements

The federal government announced details of an investment of $1.5 billion in the Workforce Development Agreements (WDAs) with provinces and territories. This investment will help Canadians in underrepresented groups and those in sectors that have been hardest hit by the pandemic – such as construction, transportation, and hospitality – quickly access supports to re-enter the workforce. It could include skills training, on-the-job training, employer-sponsored training, financial assistance and benefits, employment counselling and services, and job opportunities. This funding is in addition to the $3.4 billion provided to provinces and territories in 2020-21 under the WDAs and Labour Market Development Agreements (LMDAs). More information.

Red Tape Reduction - Legislation Changes and Report

Bill 48, the Red Tape Reduction Implementation Act, 2020 (No. 2) proposes 12 changes across eight ministries. Some of the changes include adjustments to subdivision and development permits, off-site levies, land titles documents and building assessment reports. More information. The provincial government released the first annual report on red tape reduction highlights. See the report. The Alberta Chambers of Commerce released a statement applauding the progress made by the provincial government.

New Telecommunications Funding Opportunity

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada is seeking to develop a solution that will extend the range of wireless terrestrial backhaul links, while being cost-efficient without sacrificing reliable high speeds. More information.

Government of Canada: Consultation on proposed Pay Equity Regulations

Of interest to those in federally-regulated workplaces, consultations are open until January 13, 2021. Any questions/comments, please contact Leah Nord. More information.

Government of Canada introduces bill to legislate net-zero emissions by 2050

The Government of Canada tabled the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act in the House of Commons.
The Act will do the following:
• Legally bind the government to a process to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
• Set rolling five-year emissions-reduction targets and require plans to reach each one and report on progress.
• Establish the Net-Zero Advisory Body to provide independent advice to the Government on the best pathway to reach its targets.

Read the backgrounder.

Government of Canada Extends Funding to Increase Indigenous Participation in Oil and Gas Infrastructure Development

The Government of Canada today announced up to $12 million in funding over two years for the Indigenous Natural Resource Partnerships (INRP) program for Indigenous communities and organizations in British Columbia and Alberta to further increase their participation in economic opportunities related to oil and gas infrastructure development. More information.

Invest Medicine Hat seeks to accelerate economic recovery with YXH Gateway

Invest Medicine Hat is pleased to announce the newest commercial business district, YXH Gateway, located at the Medicine Hat Regional Airport. Recognizing the significant role airports play in economic development, the City enhanced the airport entrance with landscaping, sign installations, and other infrastructure upgrades prior to COVID-19, and is now promoting commercial and industrial real estate opportunities. More information.