Question Period Note: SUPPORT FOR THE STEEL AND ALUMINIUM INDUSTRY

What is Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions doing to support the steel and aluminum industry in Quebec?

Our government is supporting businesses in the aluminum sector in Quebec. Since November 4, 2015, Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions has approved 28 projects in support of business growth with authorized assistance of more than $14 million, generating total investments of more than $78 million.

In addition, the Government designed a targeted and one-time program in April 2019, the Steel and Aluminum Initiative of the Regional Economic Growth through Innovation program, to support innovative projects for SMEs operating in Canada's steel and aluminum supply chain.

These investments are intended to maintain and create jobs and promote economic growth through the adoption of innovative technologies and processes.

With a budget of $26.2 million, Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions has approved 38 projects under this program. The total budget was used to make investments of $71.8 million.

SUPPLEMENTARY MESSAGES
Of the 38 projects approved under the Steel and Aluminum Initiative, 387 jobs were created and/or maintained

The Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (RCEI) Steel and Aluminum Initiative, effective March 11, 2019, is designed to support innovative projects by SMEs operating in Canada's steel and aluminum supply chain. These investments are intended to maintain and create jobs and promote economic growth through the adoption of innovative technologies and processes.

More specifically, the Initiative:
• will help companies with high growth potential to expand and grow;
• will support technology demonstrations and the commercialization of new technologies;
• will encourage early adoption or adaptation of advanced technologies and processes to improve productivity;
• will improve the capacity of companies.

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