A Lighter Shade of Red

Speaking Remarks Honourable Darrell Dexter DEFSEC Atlantic September 9, 2009 7:00 p.m. Cunard Centre, Halifax, NS Check against delivery (Audience 200 plus)

Good evening [Business New Brunswick] Minister Boudreau, dignitaries, colleagues, ladies and gentlemen. A special welcome to the many partners who have traveled to Nova Scotia for this important trade exhibition, especially to our partners from Atlantic Canada. We are pleased to be your host for DEFSEC Atlantic, the largest exhibition of its kind in Eastern Canada.

I understand that this is one of the most unique events of its kind in the country. I am honoured to both represent the government of the Province of Nova Scotia and to speak on behalf of this region and industry. With companies represented here from Canada and around the world, it is an excellent forum for collaboration among industry and government stakeholders.

We believe that partnership and collaboration is key in growing this sector not only for Nova Scotia, but also for our Atlantic neighbors. Over the last seven years, Nova Scotia's aerospace and defence industry has grown by an astounding 183 per cent. In 2008, aerospace and aerospace parts manufacturing accounted for more GDP then fishing, forestry, agriculture and tourism combined, in our province.

Here in Nova Scotia, the industry generates in excess of $600 million in revenues each year. When combined with defence spending, the industry contributes $1.5 billion to the provincial economy each year. The aerospace and defense industry in Nova Scotia is helping to build a more prosperous economy in this province. With 80 per cent of annual aerospace sales destined for export, the industry is poised to capitalize on future growth opportunities.

This government is committed to supporting the aerospace and defense industry in Nova Scotia because we recognize the opportunities that these industries play in supporting our economy. For instance, in July, I was in attendance when Lockheed Martin Canada opened its new home in Nova Scotia. The company plans to create up to 100 great career opportunities for our young and talented workforce as well as our seasoned professionals.

These jobs offer excellent wages and working conditions that will help to keep our skilled and experienced workers employed at home. Nova Scotia is fortunate to have the Aerospace and Defence Industry Association of Nova Scotia to support the advancement of the sector and the Human Resources Partnership to work with employers to meet skills and labour needs.

As a province, we have the highest concentration of Canadian Forces personnel in Canada. I know from my experience in the Navy how important the armed forces are to the history of this province and our economy. (insert story from your time in the Navy if you like). Investment in Nova Scotia by companies like Lockheed Martin, L-3 Communications, General Dynamics, Pratt & Whitney and others in Atlantic Canada, helps business in the industry flourish.

Given the strength of this industry and strong partnerships, I am confident that we will continue to see growth and economic spin offs from this promising industry- which translates into more opportunity for all of us. Thank you for the opportunity to speak and I wish you much success during this exhibition. I hope you find it both productive and successful. Thank you -END-