February 22, 2008

DEVOLIN ANNOUNCES $564,000 FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN HALIBURTON COUNTY

HALIBURTON — Local MP Barry Devolin, on behalf of the Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Health and Minister for FedNor, today announced a Government of Canada investment of roughly $564,000 for the Haliburton County Community Futures Development Corporation (HCCFDC).

The funds are part of the $10 million announcement made earlier this week toward the renewal of the Eastern Ontario Development Program (EODP) for one year to build on the strengths of the regional economy and create jobs.

“Today’s announcement demonstrates our Government’s commitment to addressing the challenges facing businesses and residents in rural Eastern Ontario,” said Devolin. “Through this investment of $10 million, our Government is promoting economic development in rural Eastern Ontario that will lead to a competitive and diversified regional economy.”

"We are very excited about this continuing partnership with the Federal Government, said Evelyn Beebey, Chair of the HCCFDC. "The Eastern Ontario Development Program plays a significant role in supporting local businesses and organizations to build our economy and vibrant communities."

“The Government of Canada is committed to working with community partners to support projects which result in an enhanced economic development infrastructure,” stated Devolin. “This funding will ensure that the HCCFDC will continue to play a major role in the economic expansion of the area.”

Anyone interested in this new round of funding should visit the HCCFDC website at www.haliburtoncdc.ca

The EODP focuses investments within five key economic development priorities – business and community development, access to capital, skills development, retention and attraction of youth, and technological enhancements.

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For more information contact: Barry Devolin, MP (705) 324-2400 or (866) 688-9881