Advanced Manufacturing Strategy Supports Over 400 Jobs In Stratford

     STRATFORD, ON, Feb. 20 /CNW/ - Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty today

announced the first in a series of new investments to help manufacturers

develop cutting-edge technologies that will attract investment, help Ontario

compete and create jobs that support Ontario families.

     "Advanced manufacturers choose Ontario because our workers are the best

in the world," said Premier McGuinty. "We're proud to partner with these

companies to help them discover new ideas and turn those ideas into exciting

innovations and services."

     Premier McGuinty announced that the government will provide FAG Aerospace

Inc. of Stratford with a $1.78 million loan for research and development into

improving the manufacturing of precision bearings for the aerospace industry.

The project will help create or retain 438 jobs.

     The project is part of round two of the government's Advanced

Manufacturing Investment Strategy (AMIS). The $500-million strategy supports

investments in technology and innovation by providing repayable loans that are

interest free for up to five years.

     More investments will be announced across the province in the weeks to

come.

     "Our government is taking action to advance Ontario's manufacturers to a

higher level of technology and skills development," said Economic Development

and Trade Minister Sandra Pupatello. "These new projects signal our long-term

commitment to make Ontario a global leader in advanced manufacturing, creating

high-value jobs and a strong economy."

     "Today's announcement sends the message that innovative companies looking

to invest should choose Ontario," said Patti Watson, president of the Economic

Developers Council of Ontario. "The government's support of a competitive

manufacturing industry complements the work of our members to promote job

creation and economic growth in communities across the province."

     Investing in advanced manufacturing is just one example of how the

McGuinty government is working on the side of businesses and families to

strengthen Ontario's economy.

     Other initiatives include:

     -   Encouraging strong job creation, with 321,000 net new jobs since

         taking office

     -   Creating the Ministry of Research and Innovation to help support the

         discovery, funding and marketing of new ideas and technologies

     -   Creating the Ministry for Small Business and Entrepreneurship to help

         strengthen our economy

     -   Helping generate over $7 billion in automotive investments that

         retain or create thousands of long-term, high-value jobs.

     The government is now accepting proposals for AMIS round three, with a

submission deadline of April 12, 2007. For further information, including

eligibility requirements and an application package, please visit

www.ontariocanada.com (click on the "Programs and Services" link).

     "Ontario's advanced manufacturing sector is one of the pillars of our

economy," said Premier McGuinty. "By investing in leading-edge manufacturing,

we're making sure Ontario remains one of the most competitive places in the

world to invest."