KENORA, Ontario, January 12, 2009 — Greg Rickford, MP for Kenora welcomed the Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Industry and FedNor to Kenora this past weekend to make some important FedNor announcements and join him in his extensive pre-budget consultation with constituents and stakeholders in the Kenora riding. 

“Moving forward, I want to assure my constituents that this government is committed to supporting strategic economic development initiatives, small business, information and communications technology (ICT), and youth.  At the same time, we are preparing for a budget on January 27th and I’m taking the opportunity of Minister Clement’s visit to the riding to consult directly with constituents, business people and civic leaders for input on the budget” said Rickford.

“Today’s FedNor announcements reinforce our government’s commitment to support the hardworking families and business owners in the Kenora Riding” stated Minister Clement, “This investment will help attract tourists and investors, support small business, expand broadband services, and encourage our youth to stay and work in Northwestern Ontario.”

The Mayors’ for Sioux Lookout (Kathy Poling), Dryden (Anne Krassilowsky), and Kenora (Len Compton) were all on hand for the announcements.  The Mayor for Red Lake sent his regards but was unable to attend.  All three mayors expressed their appreciation for the announcements and took some time to speak privately with Minister Clement and Rickford, to make pre-budget suggestions and discuss other important matters for their communities. 

The FedNor announcements made by Minister Clement with Greg Rickford included funding for Patricia Area Community Endeavours Inc.  Based in Dryden, this Community Futures Development Corporation (CFDC) will receive an investment of $320,000 to provide essential business services and access to capital for small and medium-sized enterprises (SME’s) and community development initiatives for a one-year period.

The FedNor announcements also included funding for the Kenora District Soil and Crop Improvement Association.  The FedNor Youth Internship Program helps talented, post-secondary graduates gain the skills they need to secure permanent employment in the North. Funding of $27,500 allowed the Kenora District Soil and Crop Improvement Association, through Patricia Area Community Endeavours, the local CFDC in Dryden, to hire a recent graduate. The Intern’s responsibilities include working with local and regional agricultural stakeholders, as well as developing a business plan for the Cloverbelt Farmers’ Market. This student will be based in Dryden.