Cumberland Councillor Stephen Blais is calling for ALL party support for Bill 11, which will make permanent the Eastern Ontario Development Fund (EODF) and to ensure that all of Ottawa is included within the eligibility criteria for the fund.

“One of our most important roles as elected officials is to create an environment where private sector jobs can flourish,” says Blais. “The Eastern Ontario Development Fund provides much needed assistance to retain and create jobs in our community.”

The Fund supports initiatives like capital investment, worker training, and investment attraction. Included in the eligibility scope are projects that create and retain jobs, encourage the introduction of new technologies, pursue growth in new markets, and contribute to the diversification of eastern Ontario’s economy.

“All of Ottawa needs to be included in the EODF to we can retain and attract high quality jobs to our city,” adds Blais. “Ottawa is the economic engine for eastern Ontario and we must ensure the environment for job creation is strong.”

The City of Ottawa’s Finance and Economic Development Committee approved a motion brought forward by Blais at their meeting of August 27, 2012.

Bill 11 is currently at third reading in the Ontario Legislature.