August 3, 2006

CORNWALL, ONTARIO – Prime Minister Stephen Harper today announced additional funding for projects in Eastern Ontario as part of the Eastern Ontario Development Program.  This money will go toward business development, skills enhancement and finding new and better ways of using technological advances.  Underlining the importance of this money, he said, “Funding these community-based initiatives will greatly benefit Eastern Ontario cities, including Cornwall.”

Speaking on the first day of the Conservative caucus retreat, the Prime Minister also emphasized the importance of the City of Cornwall to the Canadian economy – given its strategic location on a major transportation link to the United States.  And he praised the work of Team Cornwall in promoting the City and what it has to offer businesses and investors.

“Cornwall is a great city enriched by the peaceful co-existence of English and French for hundreds of years and of great economic and strategic importance to Canada because of the Seaway International Bridge.  The members of Team Cornwall should be commended for their work as goodwill ambassadors for this great city.”

The Prime Minister also outlined some of the accomplishments of his Government to date, and indicated some of the issues he would like Parliament to tackle in the upcoming session.  For example, he cited the Government’s success in cutting taxes, noting, “Today, Ottawa is taxing less and that means more for you, your businesses and families.”

In closing, the Prime Minister emphasized the bright future he sees for both Canada and the region.  And he extended his best wishes to Team Cornwall members as they seek to make their community better known across Canada, adding, “You’ve got a great story to tell, and I wish you the best of luck.”

PMO Press Office:  (613) 957-5555

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