Québec, Quebec, April 10, 2007 The
Honourable Jean-Pierre Blackburn, Minister of Labour and Minister of
Canada Economic Development, today announced that the
firm Prémontex will receive $152,400 in repayable funding to expand its
factory and acquire new equipment for the cutting and treatment of raw lumber.
Located in Wendake, Prémontex is an Aboriginal firm owned by
Normand M. Sioui that specializes in the manufacture of pre-varnished
hardwood flooring, stairs and railings, mouldings, and pre-finished components
for floor manufacturers.
Prémontex, which has 74 employees, is investing $585,000 to improve its
productivity, help enhance its competitive standing on export markets and
maintain six jobs. Half of the firm's sales are currently to U.S.
markets.
"This assistance we are granting to Prémontex is entirely in line with the
determination of Canada's new government to facilitate the emergence of
small and medium-sized enterprises in Quebec and enable them to become more
competitive in the foreign marketplace. We are proud to support the initiative
of an Aboriginal entrepreneur who has distinguished himself through his sense of
entrepreneurship and innovative vision. Prémontex's products are recognized
for their quality throughout the market and Mr. Sioui's dynamism is a
model for all Aboriginal businesses. Prémontex clearly has the know-how needed
to succeed with this project," stated Minister Blackburn.
"As the minister responsible for the Québec region, I am pleased with the
contribution an SME like Prémontex is able to make to the region's economy.
This assistance from Canada's new government illustrates the
importance we place on the Aboriginal community, not only from an economic
standpoint, but socially and culturally as well," concluded the Honourable
Josée Verner, Member of Parliament for Louis-Saint-Laurent, Minister of
International Cooperation and Minister for the Francophonie and Official
Languages.
-30-
Sources:
Michel RochonCommunicationsCanada Economic
DevelopmentTel.: 418-648-4679 or 1-800-463-5204E-mail: michel.rochon@dec-ced.gc.ca
Roxane MarchandPress SecretaryOffice of the Honourable Jean-Pierre
BlackburnCanada Economic Development
Tel.: 819-953-5646Cell.: 613-816-5094E-mail: roxane.marchand@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca
