On October 31st, The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) Canada presented before the House of Commons Finance Committee. The Committee is hearing from a range of stakeholders across Canada in preparation for the 2012 federal budget. NMMA Canada was pleased to be invited to present before the Committee to discuss the recreational boating industry’s key challenges and future opportunities and how government can play a role.

“NMMA is delighted to have the opportunity to tell our dedicated members of the House of Commons Finance Committee the significant impact the recreational boating industry has on Canada’s economy – from creating jobs to providing a means for middle-class citizens to enjoy our country’s great outdoors,” said Sara Anghel, Executive Director. “Recreational boating is also a major contributor to tourism in Canada and with the announcement of a tourism strategy from the Harper government we look forward to continuing to grow boating and the economic strength of Canada.”

NMMA’s presentation today helped ensure that the Canadian government understands the significance of the recreational boating industry to the national economy. There are an estimated six million boaters in Canada and of those six million boaters, most are middle-class. In addition, NMMA’s most recent economic impact study (2006) revealed that the recreational boating industry produced close to 400,000 jobs – directly and indirectly –across the country, including an estimated 7,000 well paying manufacturing jobs. What’s more, the Canadian recreational boating industry exports more than $600 million worth of product to international markets, including the U.S.

Specifically, during the hearing today, NMMA reinforced the importance of policy and expenditure initiatives fostering an environment that enables more Canadians to enjoy boating, while also supporting local communities and industries which rely on the recreational boating sector.

To read NMMA’s submission click here. For more information visit www.nmma.ca     or contact Sara Anghel 905-951-4048.