Innovation, Trade and Rural Development
January 17, 2008

Town of Gander to Study Feasibility of Relief Centre

The Town of Gander will receive $41,250 from the Provincial Government to conduct a study that will evaluate the feasibility of establishing a National and International Relief Distribution Centre in the community.

"The Provincial Government is pleased to support communities like Gander in exploring new and innovative ideas that grow their economies," said the Honourable Trevor Taylor, Minister of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development.

"Geographically, Gander is well-positioned to support an initiative with a global marketplace. It also has a long history of playing a key role in world events.

Upon completion of the study, we will have a clear idea of the project�s viability."

A not-for-profit organization, the proposed National and International Relief Distribution Centre (NIRDC) will procure and stockpile goods for agencies involved in local and international relief efforts. Such agencies include the World Bank, United Nations, Red Cross, Salvation Army, and the Government of Canada.

The study will include contacting relief agencies to negotiate terms of engagement and utilization of the relief distribution centre. Upon completion, the evaluation will be reported to a steering committee.

"Developing new opportunities for the local business community and our region is a priority for the Town of Gander," said Mayor Claude Elliott. "The funding the town has received for this project under the Provincial Government�s Regional/Sectoral Diversification Fund further increases its potential."

The Regional/Sectoral Diversification Fund is a $5 million fund of the Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development and a component of the province�s Comprehensive Regional Diversification Strategy. The fund provides non-repayable contributions to economic development agencies for initiatives that address regional and sectoral development and diversification.

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Media contact:
Scott Barfoot
Director of Communications
Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development
709-729-4570, 690-6290
ScottBarfoot@gov.nl.ca

2008 01 17                                                  10:50 a.m.

 


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