Several meetings will take place over the next few months as a new group looks for ways to create growth and opportunities in rural Manitoba.

The new Rural Economic Development Steering Committee met for the first time on Sept. 22.

Donna Morken of Rivers co-chairs the group. “The focus is on coming up with a co-operative plan to bolster economic development in rural Manitoba.

“Rural development in Manitoba contributes to strong local economies” said Morken.

The Rural Economic Development Steering Committee was developed as a result of a proposal from the Association of Manitoba Municipalities and includes a range of experienced individuals with expertise in economic development, regional partnerships, rural policy and business. 

Over the next few months, the committee will consult with invested parties and draft a Rural Economic Development Strategy and Action Plan, creating a roadmap for economic development in rural Manitoba, the minister said. This strategy will identify needs and opportunities, which could include areas like key infrastructure, technology, community development, labour skills, and housing, he added.

“We plan to meet with stakeholders to collaborate on an economic development strategy for Manitoba and look forward to developing a strategy that will benefit all Manitoba communities.”

For the purposes of the strategy, rural Manitoba is defined as the area outside of the city of Winnipeg which includes all cities, towns, villages, rural municipalities, First Nations and other communities, with the exception of northern Manitoba. 

The Rural Economic Development Steering Committee is co-chaired by Masi and Morken and its members are Bill Ashton, Carissa Caruk-Ganzar, Chuck Davidson, Mary Greber, Joel Lemoine, Ken Munro, Mark Myrowich, Elaine Palson and Eleanor Brockington.