fbpx
ADVOCACY IN ACTION

Advocacy in Action with MP Patrick Weiler

June 12, 2020

This week the Whistler Chamber held a virtual roundtable discussion with a small group of Members, and we were joined by Patrick Weiler, MP for West Vancouver – Sunshine Coast – Sea to Sky Country. The intention of this meeting was to provide our MP with a full understanding of what’s happening for Whistler businesses, in specific industries. This also provided a platform to help inform what the federal government can do to improve the programs already available, and log any additional support needed to sustain and improve the outlook for our business community.

Sectors represented at the meeting were: Construction & Trades, Restaurants, Retail, Not-For-Profit, Accommodation, Transportation and Solopreneurs.

Attendees’ main causes of concern:

  • Uncertainty for team and self, not knowing what is going to happen.
  • Planning for the businesses future with the uncertainty.
  • When will the borders open – need international tourism.
  • New business not being eligible for programs.
  • Outcome for staff, wages, financial security.
  • Transportation post pandemic.
  • Survival, deficit budget, social welfare of staff. 
  • Managing employees, lay-offs, bringing staff back.
  • Bridging the gap – temporary relief from CEWS and CEBA. When this ends, where will we be?
  • International vs. domestic tourism.

“This group represented a really good sample of what other Canadian resort and tourism communities are experiencing all across Canada.” Melissa Pace, CEO, Whistler Chamber of Commerce

 

Our MP began with an update for the group, covering topics such as clarifying CERB outlines to make rehiring easier, extending the wage subsidy, rent relief solutions and work permits. Another important topic was the Business Resilience Service, which offers free advice for small businesses from accountants and specialists.

MP Patrick Weiler’s key takeaways:

  • Extension of CEWS beyond August 31
  • Revisit a qualification for CERB to get more people back to work
  • Revisit how CECRA can be accessed by businesses whose landlords do not qualify or who won’t apply
  • Risk Insurance for businesses in particular in the tourism industry around Reimbursements for C-19 re opening costs
  • Communication around safe inter provincial tourism
  • Programs with a Longer term vision to allow businesses the ability for longer term planning
  • Labour issues – with Canadian first, the need for access to TFW and Immigration is still necessary and needs to continue

This meeting will occur again in 4 weeks with the same group, as we work to progress these issues further.

CANADIAN BUSINESS RESILIENCE NETWORK
COVID-19 RESOURCES FOR WHISTLER BUSINESSES
Pulse Check Survey Provides New Business Impact Data

Pulse Check Survey Provides New Business Impact Data

Apr 15, 2020 | , | 0 Comments

The results are in! The Whistler Chamber and the BC Chamber of Commerce have collaborated to collect and provide information to government, from businesses of all sizes within our community. Information gathered will inform a holistic approach between government and society in acting on the COVID-19 pandemic…

read more
Support for Business and Not-For-Profits

Support for Business and Not-For-Profits

Mar 27, 2020 | , | 0 Comments

Today, Prime Minister Trudeau announced four measures to further support business and not-for-profits who are struggling in the face of COVID-19 pandemic. In brief: The wage subsidy has been increased from 10% to 75% for qualifying businesses, back dated to March 15, 2020.

read more
BC Government Listens to Urgent Business Feedback

BC Government Listens to Urgent Business Feedback

Mar 23, 2020 | , | 0 Comments

As you may know, today the BC Government announced a COVID-19 Action Plan, which includes $5 billion allocated for programs that support businesses, workers, and economic recovery. We know you’re eager to gain more clarity on how to access these initiatives, and the province will provide these details soon…

read more