Conservatives, New Democrats and Liberals agree... Canada's Small Business Saturday a winner on Parliament Hill Français
TORONTO, Oct. 11, 2012 /CNW/ - Canada's Small Business Saturday has received the support of Members of Parliament from all of the major parties represented in the House of Commons, as well as elected officials in provincial legislatures and city halls across Canada.
"Canadians are used to seeing politicians argue with each other, but one thing that Conservatives, New Democrats and Liberals all agree on is the importance of small business to Canada's future," said Dan Kelly, president of the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB). "It's great to see so much cross-party support for Small Business Saturday. On October 20th, if we all shop small, it can make a big difference."
"Small business entrepreneurs are the engines of the Canadian economy," said minister of state (small business and tourism) Maxime Bernier. "Our government will continue to support entrepreneurs through low taxes, reducing red tape and promoting Canadian exports in new markets."
CFIB has partnered with Interac®, Canada's only domestically-run, coast-to-coast debit payment network, to make Canada's Small Business Saturday a reality on October 20th.
"Small Business Saturday is an important initiative for independent businesses as well as for the economy of our cities and towns," said Official Opposition critic for small business François Lapointe.
"I was an entrepreneur and business owner for many years before running for public office, and I know exactly how much hard work, dedication, and optimism it takes to succeed," said Liberal critic for small business Joyce Murray. "I congratulate everyone who owns, runs, or works in a small business for your immeasurable contributions to Canadian life."
Business owners and consumers are encouraged to register on-line at www.shopsmallbiz.ca. The process is fast, easy and completely free. Businesses will be encouraged to offer a special promotion or discount on Small Business Saturday in order to attract new customers.
"We're pleased to see such a positive response from Canada's small business owners to the first Small Business Saturday," said Interac Association and Acxsys Corporation president and CEO Mark O'Connell. "I will be shopping small in my neighbourhood on October 20th and will encourage my family, friends, and colleagues to do the same."
As Canada's largest association of small- and medium-sized businesses, CFIB is Powered by Entrepreneurs™. Established in 1971, CFIB takes direction from more than 109,000 members in every sector nationwide, giving independent business a strong and influential voice at all levels of government and helping to grow the economy.
SOURCE: CANADIAN FEDERATION OF INDEPENDENT BUSINESS
For further information:
To arrange an interview with Dan Kelly, please call Gisele Lumsden at 416-222-8022 or by email at [email protected].
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