(Kanata, Ontario) – Carleton-Mississippi Mills M.P.P. Norm Sterling is pleased to see the results of his proposal to create an Eastern Ontario Economic Development Fund come home to his riding.

Today Municipal Affairs and Housing Minister Jim Watson announced a grant to Laurysen Kitchens Ltd. In Stittsville to purchase a new, more environmentally friendly UV water-based wood coating finishing line. 

“I am thrilled to see some money flowing into a business in my riding,” said Mr. Sterling.  “Laurysen Kitchens is a family owned and operated business that has been in Stittsville for almost 40 years and employs 120 people.  They are also great corporate citizens who support a long list of community events and organizations including the Ottawa Rotary Club, Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario and many minor sports teams.” 

Mr. Sterling first introduced the concept of an Eastern Ontario Economic Development Fund as a Private Members’ Bill on April 13, 2005 and it was debated in April 2005 and again in May 2006.  On both occasions the Bill passed second reading but was left by the McGuinty government to die while awaiting committee hearings and third reading. 

Then, in July 2008, the McGuinty Liberal Government announced an Eastern Ontario Development Fund administered by the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade.  The Fund provides up to 15% of eligible project expenses for implementation of new technologies, new equipment or skills training for employees for projects valued at $500,000 or more.

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For more information, call Carleton-Mississippi Mills MPP Norm Sterling at: (613) 599-3000