New Camaro to roll off production line in Oshawa.

Decision strengthens Ontario's position as North America's leading automaker

General Motors of Canada's decision to manufacture its new Camaro in Oshawa is a resounding vote of confidence in the province and its workers, said Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty.

"This decision is great news for families and businesses in Oshawa who depend on a strong and vibrant auto sector," said Premier McGuinty. "Oshawa's workers are among the most highly skilled and dedicated in the world and we're pleased that GM continues to demonstrate its confidence in our people and our province."

Ontario has invested $235 million to support GM's $2.5 billion Beacon Project, which includes the production of the Camaro. Since the project was announced last year, it has created over 400 new jobs in Oshawa, Ingersoll and St. Catharines. The project also supports auto industry research, education and training in Ontario.

Economic Development and Trade Minister Joseph Cordiano joined Premier McGuinty at the announcement.

"Ontario was in stiff competition to produce the Camaro and we've shown that we can compete and win," said Cordiano. "We are pleased to have played a role in ensuring GM Oshawa is viable into the future."

The Ontario government has aggressively pursued new automotive projects through initiatives like the $500 million Ontario Automotive Investment Strategy. The Province's investments in the auto sector have generated nearly $7 billion in investments and retained and created thousands of high-value jobs.

The investments include:

• The $1.1-billion Toyota Woodstock facility, the first new greenfield auto assembly plant site in two decades
• Ford's $1 billion investment in its Oakville Assembly Complex
• A $768 million DaimlerChrysler investment in Windsor and Brampton
• Navistar's $270 million investment in heavy truck manufacturing in Windsor and Chatham
• Nemak's $100 million Windsor investment to launch a new innovative engine block process.
• Linamar's $1.1 billion investment in automotive powertrains and related research, development and plant investments.

"The auto 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 locations in the world for investment."

Contacts Presse :

Ray Lancashire - Relations Presse
Ministère du Développement Economique et du Commerce
Tél : 00 1 416 326 1608

IRIS CONSEIL

Christine Arnal

Tél : 00 33 (1) 45 44 04 21

Fax: 00 33 (1) 45 44 18 14

E-mail: c.arnal@iris-conseil.net

& Site: http://www.iris-conseil.net

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