Talks focused on working together; part of National Manufacturing Month cross-Canada tour
October 4, 2014 – Halifax, Nova Scotia – Industry Canada
Industry Minister James Moore today toured the Irving Shipbuilding's Halifax Shipyard, the facility that will produce the Royal Canadian Navy's newest combat fleet as part of Canada's National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy.
During his visit to the facility, the Minister hosted a round-table discussion with local industry leaders to discuss the future of Atlantic Canada's manufacturing industry. This round table is part of the Minister's cross-country tour to discuss the strength of Canada's manufacturing sector and to engage business leaders on opportunities for growth. The tour coincides with National Manufacturing Month, an effort by Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters to educate Canadians about the sector's economic and social impact.
During the consultation, the Minister heard from business leaders about issues that affect companies' competitiveness—domestically and abroad—and how government and business can each take steps to position the industry for continued success and growth. He highlighted the actions the government has taken to support the manufacturing industry and to establish the right economic conditions for success. These included lowering taxes, cutting the corporate tax rate from over 22 percent in 2007 to 15 percent today, and removing the federal capital tax.
The Minister also emphasized the sector's importance to the Canadian economy, citing the impressive fact that manufacturing employs close to 1.7 million people in a high-tech, high-skill sector. It is one of Canada's largest business industries.
Jake Enwright
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Industry
613-995-9001
Media Relations
Industry Canada
613-943-2502
media-relations@ic.gc.ca
