ON government applauded for infrastructure spending
The Cement Association of Canada is pleased that the Ontario government has maintained in its 2012 budget its commitment to spend $35 billion over the next 3 years on infrastructure.
"We recognize that Ontario faces significant economic challenges and we applaud the government for acknowledging the critical importance of maintaining a high level of infrastructure investment during this difficult economic time," said Michael McSweeney, President and CEO of the Cement Association of Canada. "This budget is evidence the government recognizes that infrastructure is critical for economic growth, competitiveness and job creation."
Infrastructure investment is a vital economic driver for the province, providing countless social, environmental and economic benefits. In its pre-budget submission, the Cement Association of Canada highlighted how cement and concrete contribute to Ontario's sustainable infrastructure. To achieve sustainable development objectives, the government must promote enhanced energy efficiency, life-cycle costing and regulatory reform to allow the cement industry to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
"The cement industry wants to be part of the solution and work with the government to meet the current economic challenges, enhance productivity and foster job creation," said McSweeney. "We would welcome further discussions with the Ontario government on how we can achieve sustainable development objectives together."
The Cement Association of Canada represents cement manufacturers across Canada, including Ontario. Ontario cement manufacturers include Essroc Italcementi Group, Federal White Cement, Holcim Canada, Lafarge Canada and St. Marys Cement Group. The cement and concrete industries employ over 16,000 Ontarians and generate over $6 billion of economic activity in the province.
