Minister Clement announces Parry Sound - Muskoka ICT Investment

Minister Clement announces investment to create jobs and strengthen the economy of the Parry Sound–Muskoka region

TOWNSHIP OF GEORGIAN BAY, Ontario, December 17, 2011 — The Honourable Tony Clement, Member of Parliament for Parry Sound–Muskoka and Minister for FedNor, today announced a Government of Canada investment of more than $617,000 to enhance Information and Communication Technology (ICT) services and encourage business development and growth in the Parry Sound–Muskoka region.

“The Government of Canada is making targeted investments that build on the strengths of Northern communities and capitalize on opportunities to diversify and create jobs,” said Minister Clement. “The funding announced today will provide businesses throughout the region with access to the ICT resources they need to be successful in the global marketplace.”

A FedNor investment of $594,411 in the Muskoka Community Network (MCN) will support local small businesses in their efforts to embrace e-business technologies and develop digital skills. Specifically, the funding will allow MCN, a not-for-profit organization, to provide ICT training, education and awareness, promote broadband applications and conduct research in the Muskoka and Almaguin regions. In addition, a FedNor investment of $22,750 is enabling the Township of Georgian Bay to develop and implement a strategic plan, thus helping to strengthen the regional economy.

“On behalf of the Muskoka Community Network and the people and businesses who depend on broadband access in our region, I would like to express my sincere appreciation for the continued support we receive from Minister Clement and FedNor,” said Rob McPhee, Executive Director of MCN. “The Government of Canada has been instrumental in helping us address the broadband service gap in the Muskoka region and today’s announcement will allow us to build on that success.”

Funding for these projects was provided through FedNor’s Northern Ontario Development Program, which supports initiatives that strengthen community economic development, enhance business growth and facilitate innovation throughout the region.

To find out more about FedNor, visit: fednor.gc.ca.

- 30 -

Sean Osmar
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Tony Clement
613-957-2666

Peter Williams
Communications Officer
FedNor
705-670-6244 or 1-877-333-6673

----------------------------------------

For more information on broadband and technology in Muskoka, visit the Muskoka Community Network website at www.mcnet.ca