Notes for an address by

The Honourable Lynne Yelich
Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification

Funding announcement

Corresponding Document: News Release (2010-04-08)

Check against delivery

Thank you Angela.

Good afternoon everyone.

It is an honour to be here with you today, on behalf of the Government of Canada.

Through Canada’s Economic Action Plan, our Government took decisive steps to protect incomes, create jobs, and help workers and communities get back on their feet.

Canada’s prosperity will depend not just on weathering the current global economic instability but on innovation that will create opportunities for Canadians now and in the future.

Investment and trade are essential to a strong Canadian economy.  Our Government is committed to seeking out new opportunities for Canadian business.

This is why Western Economic Diversification Canada is investing $210,000 towards the Saskatchewan Trade and Export Partnership, better known as STEP, to provide exporter readiness services to Saskatchewan companies. Through the services provided by STEP, Saskatchewan’s exporters will be able to develop components and identify gaps in their export plans.

Over three years, it is expected that STEP will deliver 300 one-on-one consultations, develop 100 export plans and create 60 new Saskatchewan exporters.

This initiative will increase the number of export ready companies in Saskatchewan by 15 per cent.This project will benefit Saskatchewan exporters by increasing their position in key export markets, leading to opportunities and job creation.

Just as the Government of Canada is committed to working to keep markets open and ready for business, we are equally committed to addressing significant fiscal pressures with the deficit.

This is why Budget 2010 includes a three point plan to bring the budget back to balance. Budget 2010 aims to contribute to this recovery and sustain Canada’s economic advantage for the long term.

Together we are all working to build a stronger West for a stronger Canada.

Thank you.