Minister Clement Leads Round-Table Discussion on Red Tape Reduction and Canada-EU Free Trade Agreement

TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - Nov. 14, 2013) - The Honourable Tony Clement, President of the Treasury Board, today met with members of the York Centre business community to highlight the Government of Canada's progress in cutting red tape and advancing free trade. Minister Clement was joined by Mark Adler, Member of Parliament for York Centre, and members of the Tourism Industry Association of Canada.

"Our Government is committed to creating jobs and opportunity and, through the historic Canada and European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), Canada will bring more tourists to Canadian shores, creating jobs and raising Canada's profile as an ideal place to do business," said Minister Clement. "Trade encourages Canadian companies and workers to specialize in what they do best, fostering innovation, competitiveness and success."

In addition, Minister Clement discussed the Red Tape Reduction Action Plan, one of the most ambitious red tape-cutting initiatives in the world today. This plan eliminates unnecessary and time-consuming red tape in areas ranging from tax and payroll to labour and trade. Launched in October 2012, the Plan also introduces time-saving measures like single windows and electronic submissions. It introduced six systemic reforms to the federal regulatory system, as well as 90 department-specific changes.

"A year after launching the Red Tape Reduction Action Plan, I am pleased to report we have made substantial progress in implementing our reforms," said Minister Clement.

During the round-table discussion, Minister Clement also provided details on how CETA will benefit businesses and improve services for Canadians.

"The recent Canada-EU trade agreement presents a tremendous growth opportunity for Canada," said David Goldstein, President and CEO of the Tourism Industry Association of Canada. "Today's discussion with Minister Clement highlighted how Canada's commitment to free trade and red tape reduction can create jobs and investment by increasing Canada's competitiveness as an ideal tourist destination."

To learn more about the Government's regulatory reforms, visit the Red Tape Reduction Action Plan.

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