Minister announces Agency of Record

Industry, Trade and Rural Development Minister Judy Foote today announced that the Department of Industry, Trade and Rural Development has awarded an Agency of Record contract to Total Marketing Communications Inc. of St. John�s. The three-year contract, valued at up to $1 million annually, was awarded on a non-exclusive basis following a competitive public request for proposals. An option for extension is included in the contract.

"Marketing and promotion of the province�s strengths and opportunities is key to the Department of Industry, Trade and Rural Development�s plans to maximize opportunities for economic and employment growth," said Minister Foote. "The contract provides the Department with the necessary assistance to coordinate and execute its strategic marketing, promotion, communication and public relations activities, both within and outside the province."

Major activities to be supported through the Agency of Record include a renewed "We�re Doing It. Right Here." entrepreneurial promotion initiative within the province and ongoing trade and investment promotional efforts outside the province.

"The contract is non-exclusive, which means that the Department has flexibility in performing some functions normally associated with an Agency of Record contract in-house or through the use of other contractors where appropriate," said Minister Foote.

Media contact: Tansy Mundon, Communications, (709) 729-4570.

2003 03 10                                         2:30 p.m.