Some pluses in budget, but deficit a concern: Zimmer

Another federal budget with a large deficit is of “deep” concern to Prince George-Peace River-Northern Rockies MP Bob Zimmer.

The Conservative MP said the $28.5 billion deficit contained in the federal budget tabled yesterday will burden future generations with debt.

In his role as Critic for the Asia Pacific Gateway Zimmer was hoping to see specific amounts dedicated to the Asia Pacific Gateway.

“The Asia Pacific Gateway Fund will close next year with no significant investment by this government,” said Zimmer, in a press release. “I will be advocating to see that a large portion of this $2 billion will be allocated to the Asia Pacific Gateway.”

As a federal representative for northeastern B.C., Zimmer is also deeply concerned with the removal of tax incentives for small oil and gas companies.

“At a point when the oil and gas sector in BC has just begun its recovery it’s disappointing that the federal Liberal government would put that at risk.”

Being the Deputy Critic for Families, Children and Social Development, Zimmer was pleased to see that recommendations to remove the Labour Market Impact Assessment processing fee for families seeking caregivers were heard.

“I have personally advocated for families in Prince George-Peace River-Northern Rockies at HUMA committee, for those who require caregivers the reduction of LMIA fees was important,” said Zimmer. “Today it was rewarding to see that the government was listening.”

Further, the assistance to Indigenous and northern communities to reduce the reliance on diesel noted in Budget 2017 was welcome.

“Thanks to UNBC who presented biomass generation as a diesel alternative in Ottawa to the Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs. This proves that mortheastern B.C. communities can make a difference here in Ottawa.”