Arab Canada News
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Published: August 17, 2022
An initiative aimed at attracting high-skilled jobs to the region has captured the attention of the federal government.
On Tuesday, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry François-Philippe Champagne sat down for an interview with CTV News London to discuss the growing electric vehicle (EV) sector and other high-tech industries in Southwestern Ontario.
He says talks are underway with Boeing regarding further investment in Canada - and affirms that this region is operational.
The minister explains, "London has the key components it needs to attract this kind of industrial investment."
Boeing is one of the world's largest aircraft design and manufacturing companies. Champagne suggested that it is targeting investments that reduce the environmental impact of the aviation industry, notably greener propulsion.
Earlier in the day, Champagne was joined by MP Peter Fragiskatos from London North Centre on a tour of Toyota in Woodstock, Ontario, focusing on electric vehicle investments and technology.
Fragiskatos says the federal government's ongoing push for electric vehicle production and components in Ontario is bringing high-paying jobs to the region.
Fragiskatos says, "We're talking about nearly $40 an hour plus benefits, especially in this field."
In June, the city of St. Thomas announced the purchase of a 325-hectare (800-acre) serviced land parcel in the northeastern corner of the community aimed at attracting an electric vehicle battery plant.
Champagne was aware of the shovel-ready property and excited about the opportunity.
He believes the electric vehicle industry wants to reduce the carbon footprint of battery production, making Ontario's predominantly renewable hydropower grid very attractive.
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