Building on previous investments and commitments focused on rejuvenating the short and long-term economic outlook for the Central Region, the Honourable Shawn Skinner, Chair of the Ministerial Task Force, today announced approximately $4 million in economic development initiatives. Initiatives will target the agri-foods, tourism, and health sectors, along with business development opportunities that contribute to sustained long-term economic growth in the Central Region.

"Upon AbitibiBowater confirming its intention to cease operations in Newfoundland and Labrador, the Provincial Government chartered an aggressive course of action that provides support for displaced workers and leverages regional strengths to advance economic development," said Minister Skinner. "Initiatives announced today mark a key step on that course, and as a government we are confident that they will contribute to the long-term health of the region�s economy. We also continue to explore other new opportunities and are optimistic that we will be able to utilize available hydro and timber assets to attract an industrial user to the region."

Approximately $4 million in economic development initiatives will see $2.2 million allocated to developing the local cranberry industry, $1.5 for downtown developments, and $246,000 to establish a Memorial University research office in Grand Falls-Windsor.

The cranberry industry has been identified by the Provincial Government, along with those at the community level and private industry, as a key growth sector for the province, and in particular the Central Region. A $2.22 million investment will enable the Town of Grand Falls-Windsor to begin the pre-commercial expansion of the industry, including the development of up to 120 acres for production, site selection analysis of the Exploits Region and development of a comprehensive report outlining opportunities for future commercial development.

"This year�s funding provides financial assistance to applicants interested in becoming involved in the development of cranberry sites in our province," said the Honourable Kathy Dunderdale, Minister of Natural Resources and Minister Responsible for the Forestry and Agrifoods Agency. "This investment will enable us to further develop this industry and take it to the next level of commercialization. This can be an important sustainable agriculture industry for the Central Region and it will contribute to the long-term growth and continued success of this sector in the province."　 　

The Town of Grand Falls-Windsor will also receive $1.5 million to develop a more appealing and accessible downtown core for visitors, residents, and businesses. In addition to streetscape enhancements in the High Street vicinity and beautification that includes adding decorative stones and in-ground lighting in high-traffic areas, the town will also conduct a feasibility study analyzing market requirements for accommodations in the area.

As part of Memorial University�s research into human genetic disorders and population health, an investment of $246,000 from the Provincial Government will enable the university to open a research office in Grand Falls-Windsor. The health and social sciences sector is emerging as a key sector for development in the Central Region and the new research office will support the development of a cluster of health initiatives in the area.

"Diversifying the economy of the region is key to its long-term sustainability. 　These announcements today begin to put us on that road to rebuilding our economy of the future," said Cyril Farrell, Chair of the Community Development Committee � a 15-person team that works closely with the Ministerial Task Force and Provincial Government officials to development and advance short and long-term economic development initiatives.

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