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Decentralized Democracy

Member of Parliament

John Williamson

  • Member of Parliament
  • Member of Parliament
  • Conservative
  • New Brunswick Southwest
  • New Brunswick
  • Voting Attendance: 66%
  • Expenses Last Quarter: $123,506.39

  • Government Page
Context: House Hansard - 54 - Apr/6/22
Mr. John Williamson (New Brunswick Southwest, CPC)
  • Apr/6/22 2:04:02 p.m.
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Mr. Speaker, not too long ago, the federal government considered allowing new financial providers to enter Canada's protected banking sector. Canada's big banks argued that additional competition would limit their ability to deliver in-person services and that they would act in the interest of our communities. However, these promises have been forgotten by at least one Toronto head office. Over 2,000 of my constituents on Grand Manan were recently notified that the island's only bank would be shutting down. The bank says it is a business decision, even though Grand Manan is a very prosperous fishing community. Scotiabank wants islanders to take a 90-minute ferry trip to the mainland, which costs $40, plus drive another 30 minutes for in-person banking services. If this closure happens, it would signal to the entire industry that charging for in-person services is acceptable. Other G7 nations have taken steps to ensure rural communities are not being gouged by an uncaring banking sector. The Liberal government must do something to stand up for communities like Grand Manan.
180 words
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