Government creating challenges for businesses

QUEEN’S PARK – Today in the Ontario Legislature, Ernie Hardeman, MPP Oxford, shared the results of his recent business survey and the fact that government is still creating many of the challenges facing Oxford businesses.

“Oxford businesses continue to be tied up in government red tape. 73 percent of respondents said red tape has increased over the last four years, which is actually slightly higher than they reported last survey,” said Hardeman. “One business reported they actually have to deal with 10 different ministries.”

The responses to the survey found that:

93.5% of businesses said they had been impacted by increasing hydro rates and 43.5 % said the impact was significant;
73.3% of respondents said red-tape is increasing; and
64.4% of businesses said they expected to stay the same size this year.
“There was some positive news. The survey asked about the impact of legislation – like the PC’s Million Jobs Act – which would ensure affordable energy rates, reduce trade barriers, cut red tape, lower taxes and train more skilled workers,” said Hardeman. “77% of businesses said legislation that addressed those challenges would help their business grow.”

If a business did not receive a survey and would like to complete it they can do so at www.ErnieHardemanMPP.com/business.

“I want to thank all the business owners and operators who took the time to share the challenges they are facing and their suggestions on how we can create a climate that will help their business succeed,” said Hardeman. “I hope the government will listen and address these concerns in the upcoming budget to ensure our businesses can grow and create jobs.”

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For more information, contact:
Ernie Hardeman, MPP Oxford
(416) 325-1239