March 20, 2009

Dorchester, Ontario, March 20, 2009 — Today, Joe Preston, Member of Parliament for Elgin–Middlesex–London, on behalf of the Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for FedNor, announced that the Government of Canada is investing in local, regional and national projects that will benefit rural communities and businesses.

“These investments demonstrate how our government is encouraging economic growth in Ontario’s Communities,” said MP Preston.  “The Community Futures Development Corporation of Middlesex County and the Ontario Association of Community Futures Development Corporations are catalysts for small business growth and new economic opportunities, and I am pleased that our investments contribute to their efforts.”

“Community Futures organizations are the cornerstone of our rural economic development efforts across the country,” said Minister Clement.  “Investments such as these help ensure that Ontario’s communities and businesses continue to benefit from the expert knowledge and services they need to grow and succeed.”

“The announcements made today clearly show confidence in the work we do,” added Tiny Van Pinxteren, Chair of the Middlesex Community Futures Development Corporation.  “We are committed to playing a stronger role in the development of the regional economy and we look forward to the positive impact this funding will have on the people and businesses of Middlesex County and of the region.”

To find out more about Ontario CFDCs, visit:  http://ic.gc.ca/cfdc-ontario

For more information, please contact:

Pema Lhalungpa
Press Secretary, Office of the Honourable Tony Clement
613-995-9001

Robert Naud
Acting Director, Communications Unit, FedNor
613-954-3691 or 1-877-333-6673