Bégin, Quebec, July 14, 2008 – The Honourable Jean-Pierre Blackburn, Minister of Labour and Minister of Canada Economic Development, today announced $91,250 in repayable funding to Portes Béginois Inc., a wood processing enterprise, in order to increase its production of standard units. At a total cost of $381,000, this project will help maintain 35 jobs and improve the competitiveness of the firm, which is the major employer of the small community of Bégin.
Portes Béginois Inc., one of the two member companies of Groupe Béginois, specializes in the manufacture of standard and non-standard solid wood doors and frames for the residential, industrial and institutional sectors. This financial assistance from the government will enable the company to acquire more functional equipment, consolidate its activities and boost sales.
"Strengthening the economic base of the regions is a priority for Canada Economic Development. It was with this in mind that I recently announced our 2008-2011 Strategic Plan which includes an $86 million component, over three years, to support the growth and competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises. The 2008 budget also introduced important measures to help communities offset the effects of the fluctuating exchange rate, adjust to heightened competition and stimulate demand on key markets. One example is the Community Development Trust, a $1 billion program to fund provincial and territorial initiatives designed to assist our country's workers and communities," stated Minister Blackburn.
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Sources:
Nadia Marceau
Communications
Canada Economic Development
Tel.: 418-668-4602 or 1-800-463-9808
Cell. : 418-321-0295
E-mail: nadia.marceau@dec-ced.gc.ca
Pierre Miquelon
Office of the Honourable Jean-Pierre Blackburn
Canada Economic Development
Tel.: 514-496-1282
E-mail: pierre.miquelon@dec-ced.gc.ca
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