Saguenay, Quebec, June 1, 2009 −The Minister of State for Canada Economic Development, the Honourable Denis Lebel, today announced a non-repayable contribution of $235,597 to Trans-Al Network Inc. The funds, provided under the Business and Regional Growth program, will enable the organization in particular to foster the development of Quebec’s aluminum industry, update the information in the latest edition of the Canadian Aluminium Transformation Technology Roadmap and undertake a strategic planning exercise (2010-2013).
In operation since 1996, Trans-Al Network Inc. is an essential link in the aluminum industry. It plays an important role in the sector in supporting the efforts made by the SMEs and industry stakeholders comprising it (more than 200 members) in order to enhance their knowledge, share their knowhow and reinforce the vitality and development of their industry.
The Technology Roadmap is a practical reference tool that presents the positioning of Quebec’s aluminum industry, trends observed in the sector, issues confronting it, future needs of the global market, and technological and commercial activities offering the greatest potential for the creation of wealth in Canada.
“The Government of Canada is determined to support projects aimed at enhancing enterprises’ competitiveness. This commitment becomes especially meaningful in these times of economic turbulence. Trans-Al Network Inc. breaks down its members’ isolation,” Mr. Lebel concluded, “as it provides them with strategic information, fosters synergy among them and helps them in the steps they take to increase sales.”
The Government of Canada has been a partner of Trans-Al Network Inc. from the outset. Since 1999, it has made six non-repayable contributions totalling more than $1 million in support of the organization’s activities and development of the first two editions of the Technology Roadmap.
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
Éric Lefebvre
Senior Special Assistant, Communications
Office of the Honourable Denis Lebel
Canada Economic Development
Cell: 613-608-7906
E-mail: eric.lefebvre@dec-ced.gc.ca
