23 November 2009
Dartmouth, Nova Scotia
The Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Minister for the Atlantic Gateway, announced today that the Government of Canada is investing $7,500 in a project that will enhance visibility, access and connectivity for businesses in Nova Scotia's Acadian and francophone communities.
"The Government of Canada is pleased to contribute to the economic vitality of Acadian and francophone communities in Nova Scotia," said Minister MacKay. "This investment reflects the goals of our Government's Economic Action Plan by providing timely and targeted stimulus to communities across Canada."
The Government of Canada is contributing to this project though the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)'s Innovative Communities Fund (ICF).
The project, led by la Fédération Acadienne de la Nouvelle-Écosse (FANÉ), will comprise an in-depth feasibility study focusing on the development of an online portal for Nova Scotia's Acadian and francophone communities. The portal, once developed, would serve small- and medium-sized enterprises and community development organizations by creating a coordinated information technology presence. FANÉ and its 26 member organizations have identified the study as a federation-wide priority.
"By bridging the geographic divide between communities and improving access to services in French, an online portal will stimulate business development opportunities across the region," said Jean Léger, Director General of FANÉ. "The initiative will ultimately add value and momentum to the economic development efforts of Acadian and francophone communities."
FANÉ, established in 1968, exists to represent the interests of Acadian and francophone communities across the province. Its principal roles include supporting the Acadian community, lobbying on behalf of its members and facilitating community dialogue.
ACOA and FANÉ have a longstanding relationship, having collaborated on a number of projects to further the development of Acadian and francophone communities in Nova Scotia. On November 24, 2009, ACOA and FANÉ will participate in Forum Tripartite at Pier 21 in Halifax. The Forum will feature keynote speakers, educational kiosks and interactive presentations, to promote its theme: Nova Scotia's Acadian and francophone community: the business of all!
To learn more about Canada's Economic Action Plan, visit www.actionplan.gc.ca.
The Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Minister for the Atlantic Gateway, announced today that the Government of Canada is investing in a project that will enhance visibility, access and connectivity for businesses in Nova Scotia's Acadian and francophone communities.
The project, led by la Fédération Acadienne de la Nouvelle- Écosse (FANÉ), will comprise an in-depth feasibility study focusing on the development of an online portal for Nova Scotia's Acadian and francophone communities. The portal, once developed, would serve small- and medium-sized enterprises and community development organizations by creating a coordinated information technology presence. FANÉ and its 26 member organizations have identified the study as a federation-wide priority.
The $7500 boost for the study is being contributed though the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency's (ACOA) Innovative Communities Fund (ICF).
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David Harrigan
A/Director of Communications/Media Relations Officer
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
902-426-4238
Email: David.Harrigan@acoa-apeca.gc.ca
