Statement by the Vice-Chair of the Committee on Co-operatives, Hélène LeBlanc, on Co-operative Week 2012

During Co-operative Week 2012, I would like to highlight the importance of the co-operative movement and its key role in building our country.

Co-operatives are part of our past, present and future. Our ancestors discovered that, together, they could overcome great challenges, especially during tough economic times. Co-operatives are rooted in the agriculture and financial sectors as well as a multitude of other areas. These innovative businesses create jobs, stimulate the local economy and meet the needs of communities, all with a democratic mode of governance where each member has a voice.

New Democrats share the values of democracy, mutual aid, equality and solidarity with the co-operative movement. It must be preserved and made a priority in order to build a fairer, more equitable society.