ETOBICOKE– To help Ontario's economy - and the communities that depend on them - the McGuinty government is consulting with small and medium-sized restaurant and hotel owners about the challenges they face.

"Etobicoke offers tremendous opportunities for restaurant owners and operators," said Broten. "These discussions are an opportunity to hear first-hand about the challenges facing the business community and also to share ideas and solutions for the future."

Laurel Broten MPP and Sophia Aggelonitis MPP with owners of local restaurants at the Bombay on the Lake

On July 28, Laurel Broten MPP, Etobicoke-Lakeshore and Sophia Aggelonitis MPP, Hamilton Mountain and Chair of the Restaurant and Hospitality Caucus visited many restaurants on the Lakeshore to hear first hand from restaurant owners.

"Restaurants play an important role in maintaining strong communities," said Broten. "Through working together we can ensure our small businesses remain competitive and continue to generate jobs and prosperity."

This event builds on the annual Gems of the Lakeshore event. Gems of the Lakeshore was created to highlight and appreciate small businesses, service and community organizations. The awards ceremony which was held May 12th, 2008 attracted more than 500 nominations in 5 categories. 50 Gems were handed out to South Etobicoke businesses and organizations.

From the left: Sophia Aggelonitis MPP, owners of Cafe du Lac: Kathryn Ashby, Pierre Robillard (Head Chef) and Laurel Broten MPP

"The strength of the high dollar, increased global competition, increasing costs of food commodities and the state of the U.S. economy pose significant challenges to Ontario's restaurant and hotel owners," said Aggelonitis.

This consultation is part of a tour across the province by Ms Aggelonitis, who will continue to meet with restaurant owners and operators in Ontario.