The new federal Minister for Rural Economic Development says the newly created department is preparing to launch.
Bernadette says coming from a rural area herself, she’s excited to move forward.
“Based on the Prime Minister’s comments, having a rural economic strategy is a really key piece for us and how do we make sure that if Canadians want to live and work in rural Canada, they can do that.”
Jordan says her department will carry on some of the work that’s been done to address the challenges faced by rural communities.
“We’ve already had the investment in Connect to Innovate. What’s the next phase? What does that look like? How do we roll it out? We recognize that in this day and age, it’s not a luxury to have Internet, it’s a necessity.”
Jordan says a rural economic development plan and improving cellular coverage will also be atop her to-do list.
She’s already begun hiring department staff and expects to receive her mandate from the Prime Minister in the next day or two.
Reported by: Ed Halverson
Twitter: @edwardhalverson
E-mail: halverson.ed@radioabl.ca
