Minister Goodyear Kicks Off 100th International Plowing Match

WEST PERTH, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - Sept. 18, 2013) - The Honourable Gary Goodyear, Minister of State for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), along with Gary Schellenberger, Member of Parliament for Perth-Wellington, participated in the 100^th edition of the International Plowing Match today in Perth County.

Minister Goodyear offered congratulations on behalf of Prime Minister Stephen Harper and the Government of Canada and toured the site grounds with MP Schellenberger. He also highlighted the accomplishments FedDev Ontario has achieved for the people, businesses and communities of southern Ontario.

"Congratulations to the International Plowing Match on this very special centennial occasion," said Minister Goodyear. "This area is one of the most valuable and productive agricultural regions of southern Ontario, and the popularity and longevity of this event drives homes the important role the agricultural sector plays both here and throughout our region."

"I am very pleased to welcome Minister Goodyear to the International Plowing Match here in Perth County," said MP Schellenberger. "Our Government is committed to creating jobs, growth and long-term prosperity for all Canadians, including families right here in the County of Perth."

Since its launch in 2009, FedDev Ontario has made significant progress in creating jobs and growing the economy. In Perth-Wellington, this has meant investments of up to $42.6 million in 77 projects across the region.

However, southern Ontario remains under considerable pressure, and more than ever our businesses and workers need to be more innovative and productive, and must strive to access new markets.

Economic Action Plan 2013 demonstrated continued commitment to workers, families and communities in southern Ontario with the renewal of FedDev Ontario.

Economic Action Plan 2013 provides $920 million for FedDev Ontario over five years, including $200 million for a new Advanced Manufacturing Fund in Ontario, starting on April 1, 2014.

FedDev Ontario will also continue to promote business development, job creation and self-reliant communities in rural eastern Ontario by extending the Eastern Ontario Development Program for five years.

With renewed funding, FedDev Ontario will continue to act as a champion for the region by supporting the development of a prosperous and globally competitive southern Ontario economy.

Details of new programming will be posted on the Agency's website at www.FedDevOntario.gc.ca as they become available, so stakeholders are encouraged to check back regularly.

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