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Prime Minister Stephen Harper officially launched the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario ) today at the Delta Hotel in downtown Kitchener. "The agency will help bring relief across Ontario," said Harper.

 

“The agency was not launched simply because of the recession; it has been needed for quite some time. However in light of the global economic crisis this agency will help. FedDev Ontario is one more tool to ensure that workers and businesses in Southern Ontario have the resources they need to succeed,” said Harper.

 

The Prime Minister went on to say that his government is already investing in the region, including a partnership with the province to expand Highway 8, a vital transportation link which will reduce traffic congestion and make it easier for goods to move in, around and out of the region.

 

Mr. Harper also announced his intent to have Minister of State (Science & Technology) MP Gary Goodyear assume responsibility for the Agency and that (B.A.) Bruce Archibald has been appointed Agency President.

 

In the coming weeks, Mr. Goodyear will embark on a major tour of Southern Ontario to engage workers, businesses and community leaders.

 

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

 

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

 

FedDev Ontario will have a wide sweeping mandate and will support restructuring, community and business development, innovation and commercialization initiatives as well as other measures to promote economic diversification.

 

“This agency will be headquartered in Kitchener but will assist Southern Ontario including The Greater Toronto Area, but it will be able to implement assistance quickly. This will not be another bureaucracy,” said Harper.