Perrin Beatty, president and CEO of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, has called on federal politicians to put their petty differences aside and put economic concerns at the top of Parliament's agenda.

The former cabinet member and MP for Dufferin-Simcoe said this week's stunning stock market downturn should send a message to all today's MPs as they prepare to return for the next Commons session.

"It is critical that members of all parties set petty differences aside and put economic concerns at the top of the Parliament's agenda," he said. "Canadian individuals, families and businesses face unprecedented challenges in light of current market turbulence and exchange rate instability."

Locally, the Greater Dufferin Area Chamber of Commerce urged action on the part of the government in a letter it sent to Prime Minister Stephen Harper and all provincial and territorial leaders last fall. The Chamber welcomed measures that the government put in place to strengthen Canada's competitiveness in its fall economic statement as necessary first steps that would definitely help to mitigate some of the adverse impacts of recent events but said much more is needed.

GDACC President Rob Rice said it's now "time to move ahead on other fronts without delay."

He said that with Canada's economy facing strong pressures, all governments urgently need to act to lighten the burden of regulation, cut interprovincial trade barriers, better utilize immigrants through recognition of foreign credentials and improved labour market integration, keep the Canada-U.S. border open for legitimate travellers and business and ensure a competitive tax environment.

Mr. Rice said these areas constitute major impediments to the potential growth, competitiveness and ongoing success of Canadian firms. "To further delay would put at risk the jobs of Canadian workers and the prosperity of communities across our country including Dufferin County."