Lambton, Québec – The Honourable Christian Paradis, Member of Parliament for Mégantic–L’Érable and Secretary of State for Agriculture, announced today, on behalf of Jean-Pierre Blackburn, Minister of the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Québec, that $112,750 in funding (of which 67,500 dollars are non-repayable assistance) has be given to Manufacture de Lambton ltée, which will use this sum to carry out an international marketing strategy and to introduce new products in the marketplace.

Provided by the Community and Economic Diversification program under Canada Economic Development, this assistance will also enable the company to improve its performance, become more competitive in western Canadian and U.S. markets, maintain twenty-four jobs and create eleven new ones.

Located in the Eastern Townships, Manufacture de Lambton ltée specializes in manufacturing hardwood parts for staircases, including steps, treads, risers, decorative work, stringers, landings, newels and banisters. Besides its reputation for excellent, traditionally made products, the company also adapts to customer needs and market trends.

Mr. Gourde explained that small and medium enterprises that decide to invest in skills development and that take measures to achieve their goals usually do well. Manufacture de Lambton is following an approach that will not only foster its growth, but will also help boost the economy of the RCM of Granit and create new jobs. The substantial socioeconomic benefits are expected to help vitalize the region.

Minister Blackburn commented that the funding granted by the Government of Canada to Manufacture de Lambton testifies to a real willingness to establish conditions in Canada that will encourage entrepreneurs to succeed and to expand their companies. Moreover, in our February 26 budget, we proposed measures designed to support the development of Canadian companies and to stimulate the growth of the national economy. For instance, the manufacturing and processing sectors will receive an additional billion dollars in assistance through a three-year extension of the accelerated capital cost allowance deduction for new investments in machines and materials. The contribution that we announced today will be combined with the various means that the Government of Canada has in its arsenal, including the strategic plan Advantage Canada, to build a strong economy and sustainable growth.