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The Government of Canada and the Province of Manitoba will invest $1.5 million in a new program to help local transportation and agribusiness vehicle manufacturers strengthen ties with small- and medium-sized Manitoba parts suppliers. The cost-sharing initiative will operate through the Vehicle Technology Centre (VTC), which promotes co-operative development and adoption of advanced technology in the manufacturing sector.

“Research and development activities at the Vehicle Technology Centre support Manitoba’s vehicle equipment manufacturing industry,” said the Honourable Peter Bjornson, Manitoba Minister of Entrepreneurship, Training and Trade. “The funding announced today gives Manitoba a competitive edge in what is an already highly developed manufacturing community.”

“Manitoba’s manufacturers are key contributors to our province, creating jobs and strengthening our economy,” said the Honourable Vic Toews, Minister of Public Safety, on behalf of the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification. “This project will ensure that the industry can continue to grow and compete in the global marketplace.”

Funding under the Canada-Manitoba Western Economic Partnership Agreement (WEPA) will support the Vehicle Technology Centre’s OEM-Supplier Development Program. This program will help bring together local Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) in the transportation and agribusiness sectors and Manitoba component suppliers to test and develop products that use advanced technologies.

“Not only is this announcement a significant confirmation of the value of heavy vehicle manufacturing in Manitoba, but it is a fine example of how industry and government can work together to enhance the competitiveness of Manitoba industry – ultimately benefiting the economy for all Manitobans,” said Ron Vanderwees, President of VTC.

VTC programs assist suppliers and manufacturers in meeting common needs in such areas as technology development, testing, manufacturing processes and training.  The objective is to strengthen the productivity and competiveness of Manitoba-based parts suppliers.

Under the Canada-Manitoba Western Economic Partnership Agreement, Canada and Manitoba are contributing $25 million each, over four years, to strengthen economic activity and improve the quality of life in western Canadian communities.

Media inquiries may be directed to:

Brian Williamson
Communications, Winnipeg
Western Economic Diversification Canada
Telephone:  (204) 983-6243
http://www.wd-deo.gc.ca/

Joe Czech
Communications Coordinator
Communication Services Manitoba
Telephone: (204) 945-6778
http://www.gov.mb.ca/