March 28, 2000
COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
COMMITTEE OF CABINET LAUNCHED
Industry, Trade and Mines Minister MaryAnn Mihychuk has announced the creation of a new government body to co-ordinate major community and economic initiatives of government, particularly those that cross department lines.
"The Community and Economic Development Committee of Cabinet will be a focal point for the government’s efforts to stimulate positive economic activity and strengthen communities," said Mihychuk.
The committee comprises Premier Gary Doer, Mihychuk, Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Jean Friesen, Education and Training Minister Drew Caldwell, Agriculture and Food Minister Rosann Wowchuk, and Aboriginal and Northern Affairs Minister Eric Robinson.
The committee’s focus will be on the following areas:
The committee will work closely with various provincial departments in carrying out its mandate. A small staff headed by Eugene Kostyra as secretary will support the committee.
Kostyra is a former member of the legislative assembly and held several cabinet portfolios during his time in office, including finance, and industry and trade. He is also former head of the Manitoba section of the Canadian Union of Public Employees. And until recently, he was president of Assiniboine Credit Union, former board member of the Crocus Investment Fund and member of the campaign cabinet of United Way of Winnipeg.
Mihychuk also announced that a sub-committee of deputy ministers is being created to support the work of the committee, headed by Clerk of the Executive Council Jim Eldridge.
"I am excited about the prospect of finally having a one- stop shop for the economic and community development efforts of the government. In today’s global environment, it is absolutely essential to have this sort of co-ordinated approach to promote appropriate development opportunities throughout the province," Mihychuk said.
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