Mr. Speaker, next week in Ottawa, the Public Policy Forum will be holding a conference on the economic transformation in Atlantic Canada.
During the day and a half conference, key national decision makers will address topics, such as human capital, innovation, research and development, the energy sector and ways to foster trade and investment.
Atlantic Canada is well positioned and the transformation of its economy is well on its way. We have a stable and well-educated workforce with over 40 colleges and universities, the highest per capita in Canada. According to KPMG's recent study, we have the most competitive business costs worldwide. We have competitive, reliable and plentiful energy supply and we are geographically positioned as a natural gateway to Europe and the eastern seaboard of the United States.
As Atlantic Canadians, we recognize that there is still much work to be done but we are ready and we will continue to transform our region, building on our strengths, to make Atlantic Canada even stronger.
I would encourage all hon. members in the House to attend the conference next week and learn more about Atlantic Canada.