Provincial Government Supportive of Opportunities for Local Businesses

To gain insight into potential opportunities for local businesses at Vale Inco’s hydromet facility, the Honourable Keith Hutchings, Minister of Innovation, Business and Rural Development, recently toured the Long Harbour Plant. Minister Hutchings was joined by the Honourable Felix Collins, Minister for Intergovernmental and Aboriginal Affairs and MHA for Placentia - St. Mary’s.

“Capitalizing on supplier development opportunities, particularly in terms of our major projects is critical and can open new opportunities for all sizes of businesses,” said Minister Hutchings. “I was pleased to have the opportunity to tour the Long Harbour plant last week, and experience first hand the magnitude of the project. We look forward to strengthening partnerships with companies such as Vale to ensure that opportunities are made available for the people of our province.”

Since work began on the Long Harbour plant, over 80 per cent of employment has occurred in Newfoundland and Labrador with more than 17 million person-hours of employment generated. Approximately 5,000 people are currently employed at Long Harbour. The recent commitment by Vale to construct an underground mine could extend the life of the Voisey’s Bay project for an additional 15 years, adding additional employment and economic benefit to the province.

Investments in Budget 2013: A Sound Plan, A Secure Future commit to the development of a highly-skilled workforce, economic infrastructure, and businesses that help diversify and strengthen the economy well into the future.

“Industrial projects can open up new avenues for local businesses, increase spending, employment and strengthen our communities,” said Minister Collins. “The spin-offs from Long Harbour for the area, region, and province are numerous, and we will continue to advocate to ensure that local benefits are realized.”

The Department of Innovation, Business and Rural Development works closely with funding partners and stakeholders to explore opportunities and help identify opportunities for local suppliers. Since 2005, 65 supplier development events have been held, attended by over 1,700 individuals representing local businesses who gained valuable insight and knowledge into supply chain requirements. Additional information on the Supplier Development Program can be found at www.ibrd.gov.nl.ca/growing/sdi.html.

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2013 04 15                     9:50 a.m.