The Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Official Languages and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), made the following statement about the creation of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency by the Government of Canada 35 years ago:
"Since its creation on June 6, 1987, the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency has been the only federal department dedicated solely to serving Atlantic Canadians. ACOA works to create opportunities for growth by helping businesses become more competitive, innovative and productive, by collaborating with diverse communities to develop and diversify local economies, and by championing the strengths of Atlantic Canada.
"I have always been impressed by the role ACOA plays, but since I became its Minister in October 2021, I have had the opportunity to witness firsthand just how involved the Agency and its employees are in every facet of the Atlantic region's economy. It would be hard to find a sector or a community that has not benefited from ACOA's great work over the last 35 years.
"When the pandemic hit, the Government of Canada responded by creating and delivering measures to meet the urgent needs of Canada's businesses, organizations and communities, which were facing unprecedented challenges. I commend ACOA employees for quickly stepping up and delivering these initiatives - like the Canada Community Revitalization Fund to revitalize communities across Atlantic Canada, and the Canada Seafood Stabilization Fund to help the seafood sector face increased financial strain and market instability, all while still delivering regular programming and providing the high standard of service ACOA's clients have come to rely upon.
"In the coming years, ACOA will continue to support our government's effort to help grow our economy, create good jobs, and continue building an inclusive Canada. For the years ahead, the Agency will focus on driving local innovation and encouraging more SME productivity, skills development, and supporting the development of cleaner, greener technologies to help address the most pressing challenges in Atlantic Canada today. ACOA will also fuel inclusive economic development, which includes working with Indigenous partners to support Indigenous priorities, strengthening capacity among Black-led non-profit business organizations, building capacity among women entrepreneurs, and helping communities invest in clean growth.
"ACOA and its dedicated Atlantic-based workforce have been an asset to the region and its economy for 35 years and will continue to be for years to come. Thanks to the ongoing commitment and professionalism of ACOA employees, many companies and organizations across the region have been able to adapt and find innovative ways of doing business. Their hard work plays a key role in developing and diversifying our communities.
"I am confident that together we will continue moving Atlantic Canada's economy toward a future that is more inclusive and resilient. A future we can take pride in, with opportunities for sustainable economic growth."
