In the wake of rising unemployment and a shrinking national economy, gubernatorial candidate and House Speaker Gaye Symington unveiled Thursday her comprehensive economic plan that would shape and boost Vermont's economy.  

Symington's "21st Century Initiative" multi-program package focuses on technology, agriculture, and clean energy, as well as workforce development in order to improve the Green Mountain State's economic health.

"We need a new Governor who will move quickly to establish Vermont as a leader in the cyber economy, create good paying jobs in the agricultural and energy sectors and improve our transportation and communications infrastructure, which are the backbone of a strong economy," Symington said in a statement.  

The House Speaker promised to advance communication between students, schools, workers, and employees and mutually fulfilling the needs of one another. She stated that government agencies would work together in order to foster connections, and said she would seek to put college and childcare within the reach of all people.

She continued, saying she would make Vermont the pioneer for cyber businesses, and expand high speed internet and communications network. Symington noted that she would seek advance technologies in the agriculture sector, as well as invest in fixing the state's roads and bridges.  

Symington added that she would encourage clean energy development and invest in energy efficiency.   

Finally, the House Speaker advocated setting benchmarks as a measure for the success and the effectiveness of the programs.