Harper government launches Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario

The Canadian government has launched the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), described as a key plank in the Conservative Government’s Economic Action Plan.

The agency is designed to support restructuring, community and business development, innovation and commercialization initiatives as well as other measures to promote economic diversification.

“The global recession has created challenges in every region of our country, including Southern Ontario,” said Prime Minister Stephen Harper. “This is a region with distinct needs, and the people of Southern Ontario deserve economic programs delivered in ways specifically tailored to their own priorities. FedDev Ontario is one more tool to ensure that workers and businesses in Southern Ontario have the resources they need to succeed.”

Minister of State (Science and Technology) Gary Goodyear will head the Agency and that B.A. (Bruce) Archibald will serve as Agency President.

According to the Conservatives, Goodyear will embark on a major tour of Southern Ontario to engage workers, businesses and community leaders.

“I look forward working with provincial and municipal leaders, business and non-profit organizations, universities and colleges throughout dynamic and diverse Southern Ontario,” Goodyear said. “We all share a common goal – a southern Ontario that attracts and keeps the jobs of the future.”

The Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario will be Canada’s fifth regional development organization. A sixth regional development organization for Canada’s North is also planned.

For more information, go to www.actionplan.gc.ca