While the global economic recovery remains fragile as demonstrated by the tremendous challenges facing Europe and the United States, our government remains squarely focused on jobs and the economy. That’s why we are working hard to implement Economic Action Plan 2012 — a prudent, long-term plan to grow Canada’s economy, create jobs and get back to balanced budgets.

With the help of our government’s Economic Action Plan, Canada’s economy has performed well relative to other countries in recent years. Job creation in Canada has been the strongest among all G-7 countries (over three-quarters of a million net new jobs created since July 2009), economic growth leads the G-7 (as forecasted by independent organizations like the International Monetary Fund and Organization for Economic Co-operation), and we have the lowest debt level ratio in the G-7 by far.

But in these times of global economic uncertainty, we cannot afford to be complacent. Canada’s long-term stability depends on the implementation of a clear plan to safeguard our economy.

As we move forward with the implementation of Economic Action Plan 2012, we are beginning preparations for the 2013 federal budget. As part of our government’s pre-budget consultations, the House of Commons Standing Committee on Finance is asking Canadians for their input.

Small businesses, non-profit groups, industry organizations and individuals are all invited to participate in this important process by making an online submission. All submissions will help to inform the committee’s pre-budget recommendations, many of which have ultimately been reflected in previous federal budgets.

However, the August 3rd deadline for Canadians to participate is fast-approaching. As such, I strongly encourage you to visit the website of the Standing Committee on Finance (http://www.parl.gc.ca/PBC2012) and make your voice heard. Please note that the submission process is different in past years — online registration is required.

Submissions will be circulated to all members of the House Finance Committee, which will then identify those who will be invited to make an oral presentation (scheduled to begin in September 2012).

For additional information on the committee’s pre-budget consultation, please visit the committee’s website (http://bit.ly/O9M1Pw).

With your participation, we can help ensure the priorities of our community continue to be heard loud and clear.