The campaigning is over, the results are in, and now we need the federal government to renew its focus on investing in economic growth led by business.
 
"It's time for the federal government to take the steps needed to enable the private sector to create jobs and wealth that we need to move away from deficits and reduce public debt," Chamber CEO Bruce Williams says.

The Chamber and our national network are calling on parliament to:

• work with business to ensure we have a 21st century workforce
• extend the wage and rent subsidy programs to ensure support for our hardest hit sectors
• accelerate the deployment of a harmonized system of digital health credentials and provide legal certainty for companies on their rights and obligations
• refocus efforts with the United States to defend Canada’s trade interests; and
• create a genuine partnership with businesses to reach Net Zero 2050.

 
If you want to see where Greater Victoria's newly re-elected MPs stand on these and other issues, check out our online sessions with candidates.

The federal election is Monday, and it's the last chance to vote for the candidate of your choice.

If you're still deciding on who to vote for, or want more information on the major candidates in your riding, make sure to check out The Chamber's candidate panels. Conducted this week for the four ridings in Greater Victoria, the panels are moderated by Chamber CEO Bruce Williams and focus on issues of importance to the region's business community.

Local interest is high in this election, with Victoria and Saanich-Gulf Island the top two ridings in Canada for applications for mail-in ballots. As well, more than 5.8 million Canadians have already voted in advanced polls held between Sept. 10-13.

On voting day, employers must ensure that employees who are eligible to vote have three consecutive hours to get to the polls, which are open from 7 am to 7 pm. Employers can decide which hours they allow staff to vote, but must pay employees if the time is within work hours.

With a federal election now set for Sept. 20, The Chamber has begun reaching out to candidates in the four ridings representing Greater Victoria.
 
"The Chamber is planning to host panels with the candidates before the election," Chamber CEO Bruce Williams says. "We're looking at a format we've had success with that ensures candidates understand the challenges and advocacy priorities of our business community."
 
Full details about the candidate panels will be announced soon. The Chamber wants to hear from members about the issues important to you in this election.
 
Please send your questions for candidates to communications@victoriachamber.ca.