March 2, 2007

BELLEVILLE, Ontario, March 2, 2007 — The Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Health and Minister for FedNor, today announced that Canada’s New Government is investing $10.9 million in support of economic development in rural Eastern Ontario.  Of this total, $10 million will go toward the renewal of the Eastern Ontario Development Program (EODP) for one year, while $917,250 was provided for five EODP regional economic development projects in rural Eastern Ontario.

“Canada’s New Government is getting things done for the people of Eastern Ontario by investing in programs that foster economic growth,” said Minister Clement.  “Last summer, Prime Minister Harper committed to invest in programs that will enhance business development, skills enhancement, and advances in technology throughout Eastern Ontario.  Today’s announcement of $10.9 million demonstrates how we are delivering on this commitment to Eastern Ontarians.”

In August 2006, the Right Honourable Stephen Harper, Prime Minister of Canada, announced the $10-million renewal of funding for the EODP.

Managed by FedNor, the regional economic development organization responsible for the Community Futures Program in rural Ontario, the EODP will be delivered by the 15 Community Futures Development Corporations (CFDCs) located throughout rural Eastern Ontario.

“We are pleased to partner with the Government of Canada to deliver this important initiative for rural Eastern Ontario communities,” added Brian Todd, Chair of the Eastern Ontario CFDC Network.  “The EODP will allow us to support projects that will lead to the successful development of businesses and sustainable, self-reliant communities.

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

For more information, please contact:

Erik Waddell
Press Secretary, Office of the Honourable Tony Clement
613-957-0200

Robert Naud
Senior Communications Officer, FedNor
613-954-3691 or 1-877-333-6673