Innovation, Trade and Rural Development
June 8, 2009

Corner Brook Contact Centre Receives Commitment from Provincial Government

ICT Canada has received support from the Provincial Government that enables the company to strengthen its Corner Brook operations. Through receipt of a rebate, ICT will be better positioned to deliver on contracts and contribute to the western region' s economy.

"The contact centre industry is a significant employer in Newfoundland and Labrador," said the Honourable Shawn Skinner, Minister of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development. "To support new growth opportunities for the local industry our government has taken an active role in providing appropriate levels of investment. Through rebates we are able to provide performance-based incentives that encourage contact centres to achieve and hopefully surpass their objectives."

The three-year performance-based rebate will be paid on a bi-annual basis on receipt of certified reports indicating proof of payroll, supported by annual independent payroll audits. Over the life of the agreement, the rebate is estimated to be approximately $1 million and have a net economic benefit to the economy of more than $13 million.

"We are very pleased with the opportunity to strengthen the Corner Brook centre' s infrastructure and provide additional jobs in this region, as a result of the Provincial Government' s continued support," said Tom J. Loberto, President and Chief Operating Officer of ICT Canada. "This financial commitment helps offset the costs of operating in this highly competitive market, while ensuring that we meet client requirements."

The provincial contact centre industry employs approximately 4,000 people in eight communities across the province.

"The Provincial Government' s support in ICT is an investment in the economies of Corner Brook and the western region," said Minister Skinner. "In the current economic environment, it is extremely important for the Provincial Government to closely evaluate how it can best support local operations and provide employment opportunities for residents of the province while contributing to the provincial economy."

Founded in 1983, ICT Group is a provider of customer management and related marketing, technology and back-office business process outsourcing solutions. The company has more than 40 contact centres throughout North America, Latin America, Europe and Asia-Pacific and employs over 18,000 individuals.

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2009 06 08                 11:45 a.m.