Renovations at L'Atelier des Copains will Improve Operations and Employee Safety
News release
November 14, 2018 – Saint-François-de-Madawaska, NB – Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Resilient, diversified, prosperous communities are the foundation of strong inclusive regions. The Government of Canada recognizes that strong regions are the building blocks of a strong country. That is why the federal government is supporting renovations at L'Atelier des Copains Coopérative Ltée and investing in new equipment so the organization can meet increased demand for its recycling services.
René Arseneault, Member of Parliament for Madawaska-Restigouche, on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), joined L'Atelier des Copains president Gérard Cyr to make the announcement today.
L'Atelier des Copains Coopérative Ltée provides an invaluable resource for businesses and communities in Northwestern New Brunswick, and the demand for its specialized recycling services has increased significantly. The Government of Canada is investing $31,325 through ACOA's Innovative Communities Fund to help the cooperative renovate and upgrade equipment to meet this growing demand, while also enhancing employee safety.
This project builds on the Government of Canada's commitment to drive economic growth in Atlantic Canada through the Atlantic Growth Strategy. This commitment aligns with the goals of the Atlantic Growth Strategy's skilled workforce/immigration pillar, which includes supporting labour market participation for unemployed and underemployed Canadians, including under-represented groups such as Indigenous peoples, older workers, and persons with disabilities.
"The Government of Canada is deeply committed to helping Atlantic Canadian communities foster diverse and inclusive workforces that help build on regional strengths. We are making strategic investments in organizations such as L'Atelier des Copains that are making a critical contribution to local businesses and residents, while also providing meaningful employment for people with disabilities."
- The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA.
"The difference that L'Atelier des Copains has made for both its employees and its customers is nothing short of remarkable. I am so pleased to see our government's investment in helping this facility grow, upgrade, and take on the challenge of meeting increased demand for its services. The work done here is a great example of building on our strengths to create a stronger, more diverse regional economy. "
- René Arseneault, Member of Parliament for Madawaska-Restigouche
"L'Atelier des Copains is committed to working for the wellbeing of people and the protection of our planet. We are pleased by the economic and social contribution we are able to bring to the region, and very grateful for the funding and support of the federal government, which will allow us to continue growing our business.''
- Cyriaque Kiti, Director, L'Atelier des Copains Coopérative Ltée
Quick facts
L'Atelier des Copains Coopérative Ltée provides employment to 17 people with physical and mental disabilities.
Manufacturing provides jobs to 78,300 people in Atlantic Canada. In 2016, the industry produced goods and services valued at $7.2 billion in Atlantic Canada.
