Minister Clement Welcomes News that General Motors is Expanding Production in Oshawa

Ottawa, November 29, 2010 — Today, the Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Industry, issued the following statement regarding the news that General Motors of Canada Ltd. will add 700 jobs to support a second shift at its production facility in Oshawa:

“The Government of Canada welcomes General Motors' announcement of added jobs on the Oshawa Flex Line. Not only is it a positive sign for Canada's auto industry, but this is a very good day for the men and women who are returning to work in Oshawa and for the families and communities their jobs support.

“Last year, in the wake of the worst global economic recession in a generation, our government made the difficult decision to provide support to the Canadian auto sector. We did so to preserve our share of North American production and help the sector restructure for sustainable long-term prosperity. A healthy automotive industry is a critical part of the Canadian economy. It provides opportunities to our skilled workforce and significant economic benefits to Canada.

“Today, we are seeing further evidence that this was the right decision to make. The decisive action taken by our government helped sustain Canada's auto industry during the recession. Today's announcement by GM is another encouraging sign that Canada's auto sector is once again thriving and is poised to emerge from the recession more powerful and more competitive than ever.

“I would like to extend my congratulations to General Motors of Canada Ltd. and to the 700 people who will be back on the job.”

For further information (media only), please contact:

Lynn Meahan
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Tony Clement
Minister of Industry
613-995-9001

Media Relations
Industry Canada
613-943-2502