May 13, 2016
Premier Rachel Notley
Office of the Premier
307 Legislature Building
10800 ‐ 97 Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta T5K 2B6
Email: premier@gov.ab.ca
Dear Premier,
In support of the Ft. McMurray Chamber of Commerce, and on behalf of the membership of the Progressive Contractors Association of Canada (PCA), we would like to underscore with you the challenges facing the business and employment community of Fort McMurray. The wildfire in Fort McMurray has severely affected this northern Alberta region, and comes on the heels of the prolonged and significant economic downturn resulting from depressed oil prices. However, the present disaster will continue to get worse if the trades and small businesses in Fort McMurray are unable to survive both the loss of work, and the loss of Accounts Receivable.
To clarify, the fire has in many cases eliminated all opportunities to earn income in the immediate and near future. Equally important is the reality that many businesses will not be able to collect fees for services provided prior to the fire, as those clients will also be affected by the loss of business. When the rebuilding effort gets underway in earnest, it may be too late for many businesses to be saved.
We respectfully request immediate access to Government-backed loans and emergency bridge financing, which would serve to sustain Fort McMurray businesses, in order for them to survive until the rebuild really begins. In order for this to be effective, it must be in place within weeks, not months; otherwise the relief will be too late. Please take immediate action to ensure and prioritize the local business owners and employers facing both the damage and loss to their businesses — and in some cases the additional loss of their own homes — are able to remain to rebuild this community that is both home and place of employment.
Respectfully,
Paul de Jong, President
Progressive Contractors Association of Canada
cc:
PCA Board of Directors
PCA Members
All Alberta MLA’s
Fort McMurray Mayor & Council
Federal MP David Yurdiga