The Burnaby Board of Trade held an intimate roundtable today with Hon. Tim Uppal, MP, Minister of State for Democratic Reform to hear details of the Ministry’s recent efforts and the Government’s upcoming budget. 

Paul Holden, BBOT President & CEO led the roundtable discussion which included BBOT members from a variety of industries and sectors. Minister Uppal explained the work of his ministry, which recently has involved introducing legislation to implement term limits for Canadian Senators, restricting corporate and union loans to federal political parties, and passing the Fair Representation Act, which will see six additional seats in the House of Commons allocated to British Columbia. Participants also engaged in a lively discussion with Minister Uppal on a host of other issues of importance for BC, including future health care funding, possible pension reform and the upcoming federal spring budget. 

“These types of events where our members can enjoy access to key government representatives are a real priority for the Burnaby Board of Trade,” said BBOT President & CEO Paul Holden.  “Part of our mandate is to facilitate engagement between the business community and all levels of government, and whether through special roundtables like today’s, luncheon events with various Ministers, or through annual events like our upcoming State of the City Address with Burnaby Mayor Derek Corrigan, the Burnaby Board of Trade will continue to create opportunities for our members to connect with our elected officials.”