Statement - Minister Valcourt Discusses Economic Priorities and Jobs and Skills Training with Members of the Kamouraska-L'Islet Chamber of Commerce

LA POCATIÈRE, QC, May 11, 2015 /CNW Telbec/ - The Honourable Bernard Valcourt, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development today met with members of the Kamouraska-L'islet Chamber of Commerce. The Minister highlighted a balanced budget, family tax cuts and benefits as well as new measures announced in Budget 2015 to help build a stronger Canada:

"I was pleased to discuss the Government of Canada's achievements and continued commitment to Canada's economic priorities with members of the Kamouraska-L'islet Chamber of Commerce. Over the years, the Government has put in place measures that support the prosperity and well-being of Canadians, and that promote business investments, economic growth and job creation across the country.

Through Economic Action Plan 2015 our Government also proposes to further reduce the small business tax rate down to 9% by 2019. Due to measures taken since we formed government, we have reduced taxes for small businesses by almost 50%.

We have also announced tax cuts and benefits for Canadian families that will put considerable sums of money back into their pockets. In particular, we have doubled the Children's Fitness Tax Credit and have made it refundable. We have also proposed a new Family Tax Cut, as well as an increase and expansion to the Universal Child Care Benefit and an increase in the maximum dollar limits for the Child Care Expense Deduction.

As Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, I am pleased of the measures and investments announced through Budget 2015 for Aboriginal people. The Government remains committed to working with Aboriginal people for healthier and more self-sufficient communities by encouraging their full participation in Canada's political, social and economic areas.

Finally, we have continued to live within our means, and we are on course to eliminate the deficit and promote efficiency. As a result, we have presented a balanced budget, as promised without compromising priority services provided to Canadians."

This statement is available on the Internet at www.aandc.gc.ca.

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SOURCE Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada

For further information: Minister's Office, Emily Hillstrom, Press Secretary, Office of the Honourable Bernard Valcourt, 819-997-0002; Media Relations, Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada, 819-953-1160