Free Our Grapes

Kelowna Chamber Champions the Federal Push to “Free Our Grapes”

Kelowna (June 7, 2012) – Recently at the BC Chamber Annual General Meeting held in Penticton the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce was successful in bringing a resolution regarding the removal of interprovincial wine trade barriers to the floor. This resolution received the unanimous support of chambers across the province and has gained even more support since then.

On Wednesday, June 6, 2012 the federal parliament voted unanimously (287-0) in favour of Bill C-311, An Act to amend the Importation of Intoxicating Liquors Act (interprovincial importation of wine for personal use). The next step will be for the Senate to pass this legislation so the Bill can receive Royal Assent by the end of June, before the spring parliamentary session ends. An interprovincial consensus regarding personal exemptions will have to be reached as well.

Kelowna-Lake Country MP, Ron Cannan recently showed his appreciation for the Kelowna Chamber’s advocating efforts:

“I believe that the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce played a major role in helping to get this legislation passed by the House of Commons and I want to thank you all…  We couldn’t have done this without your interest and support!”

The impact this Bill will have once past will be felt nationally.

By removing inter-provincial barriers an important agricultural commodity will gain access to a larger domestic market, improving the financial stability of the wine industry. Removing these barriers will also help Canadian wines to compete against imported wines which currently dominate Canadian wine sales. Most importantly, Canadian consumers will have increased access to quality Canadian products.

The Kelowna Chamber of Commerce acts as a single powerful voice for their 1200 members and their 25,000 plus employees to promote local business interests. The Chamber provides a cohesive business network for its members to expand their business contacts, value-added benefits, programs, and services aimed at improving the bottom line of Chamber members. Their mission is to foster a positive business environment by providing members with leadership, advocacy and services of value.

For more information call:

Caroline Grover, CEO, Kelowna Chamber of Commerce. Ph# 250-469-7356, or Caroline@kelownachamber.org