Harper Government Celebrates Economic Action Plan Investments in Canada's Knowledge Economy

TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - March 15, 2011) - The Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Industry, was at the University of Toronto Scarborough today to tour ongoing work at the Instructional Centre, which will provide the campus with the necessary modern laboratory and academic space to keep pace with booming enrolment. This project is part of the Harper Government's investment in the renewal and expansion of laboratories, learning commons and student facilities at colleges and universities across Canada.

"The economy remains our government's top priority," said Minister Clement. "Through the Economic Action Plan, we are investing in research and training facilities at campuses across the country and providing long-lasting benefits to Canada's economy. This project is not only creating needed jobs at a critical time but also providing the University of Toronto Scarborough with the modern facilities it will need in the coming years."

The project received a Government of Canada investment of $35 million through the Knowledge Infrastructure Program, an important job creation program launched in 2009 to help respond to the global economic recession, under Canada's Economic Action Plan. The Government of Ontario provided matching financing. 

The building, the second largest on the campus, will increase the academic space at the University of Toronto Scarborough by 25 percent. The facility will feature technologically advanced classrooms, labs and study space for a number of programs, including business studies and computer and math sciences, among others.

As part of Canada's Economic Action Plan, the Government of Canada introduced the Knowledge Infrastructure Program, a $2-billion economic stimulus measure to maintain and improve research and training facilities at Canadian universities, colleges and CEGEPs. The program is providing economic stimulus, creating jobs and generating the advanced technological infrastructure needed to keep Canadian institutions at the forefront of scientific advancement and ensure economic growth in the future.

"Through the next phase of the Economic Action Plan, our government will continue to focus on protecting the financial security of hard-working Canadians and their families," said Minister Clement.

Canada's Economic Action Plan is investing in Canada's universities and colleges to develop, attract and retain the world's best and brightest researchers. The government's actions will strengthen Canada's position as a leading destination for the world's top research talent.

For more information on the Knowledge Infrastructure Program, visit the Knowledge Infrastructure Program website (www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/696.nsf/eng/home).

For information on Canada's Economic Action Plan, visit the Canada's Economic Action Plan website (www.actionplan.gc.ca/eng/index.asp).