As New Brunswick explores the possibility of starting a number of mega-projects some local firms are looking for the government to institute an industrial benefits program. Such a program would see local companies given preference in contracts. AIMS acting President Charles Cirtwill says such polices are folly and inevitably lead to higher costs and fewer projects.
It's time for business to step up to the plate and take action on the Atlantic Gateway and Atlantica. In his bi-weekly column, AIMS acting President Charles Cirtwill notes recent announcements are generating a lot of momentum, which we can take advantage of if we're smart. But he cautions government to take a supportive role in Atlantica and leave leadership to private enterprise.
The latest federal Speech from the Throne includes a plan by Ottawa to limit federal spending in areas of provincial jurisdiction. Called to comment on the new policy, AIMS acting President Charles Cirtwill suggests it will actually provide more freedom for the provincial governments.
AIMS founding president makes his mark
PEI has literacy and numeracy assessments for grade three and nine students, but it's not making the results public. Instead it is just releasing individual student results to the students. AIMS acting President Charles Cirtwill says such assessments are a more valuable performance assessment tool when released as school and board results.
This Amherst Daily News article covers a talk given by Dianne Kelderman, president of Atlantic Economics, and a member of the AIMS Board of Directors. Speaking to the Amherst and Area Chamber of Commerce, she outlines the potential benefits Atlantica and the creation of a trading bloc with a population of 43 million and a potential GDP $1.43 trillion.
After the federal Speech from the Throne, reporters in Ottawa turned to AIMS for better understanding of how policies outlined in the speech could help the region.
Charles Cirtwill, AIMS acting president, says that New Bruswick's new business ambassador program is certainly creative, but it needs to be backed by business-friendly policies.
New Brunswick recently announced plans to set up a new program to give grants to small businesses in the province. Charles Cirtwill, AIMS acting president, says that encouraging growth would be better served by implementing more business-friendly policies.