OTTAWA, January 27, 2009 – In keeping with tradition, the Honourable Jim Flaherty, Finance Minister, went to Riobec Sécurité Inc. in Gatineau Monday with the Honourable Christian Paradis, Minister of Public Works and Government Services, to buy a new pair of shoes before tabling the federal budget.

This year, the tradition took on a special meaning since the shoes Minister Flaherty bought come from L.P. Royer Inc. in Lac Drolet, a town in Minister Paradis’ riding. “As the MP, I am always proud to see that our local businesses are known outside the region,” said Minister Paradis.

The Lac Drolet company, which is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year, designs and manufactures high-end specialized safety footwear. In 2003, L.P. Royer invested in a new rubber moulding technology, becoming the only company in North America to offer this cutting-edge technology. The company employs over 100 people.

In the photo from left to right: Henri Savard, spokesperson for L.P. Royer Inc., the Honourable Christian Paradis, the Honourable Jim Flaherty, Donald Cloutier, CEO of Riobec Sécurité Inc. and Patrick Presseault, Assistant Executive Director of Riobec Sécurité Inc.