2009-05-26
12:55:05
A new report says rural communities across the country are in crisis.
The report by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities urges the federal government to develop a long-term plan to diversify rural economies.
Rural areas have been struggling for decades with shrinking populations and tax bases, lower-than-average incomes, and higher rates of poverty and chronic health problems.
The federation says rural communities need `a champion' at the federal cabinet table to ensure their priorities receive the proper resources and attention.
