The Pictou County Chamber of Commerce supports in principle the construction of a new prison facility in Pictou County. Provided the facility is being located for the reasons that have been stated, we feel that Pictou County is ideally situated. We are at the geographic center of northeastern Nova Scotia with access to two 100 series highways. We have medical, mental heath, addiction services and educational institutions that could service the requirements of a prison. With the loss of major employers such as Trenton Works, ITC and the Aliant call centers, the 100 plus jobs that such a facility could bring would be welcomed news to Pictou County. The spin offs from this may also be substantial with an increased demand for homes, goods and services.

 With modern prisons constructed in such a way to maximize both prisoner and public safety, there should not be cause for public concern. We are aware that it is not the Chamber's role to make public decisions, but in light of the fact that neighboring municipalities are actively lobbying on behalf of their communities, we would be derelict in our responsibility not to put our oar in the water for a project that could have a positive economic impact on our County.