News Release

For immediate release
November 8, 2002

Copol International Phases in Expansion with Government of Canada Assistance

North Sydney, N.S. – November 8, 2002 – The Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of State for Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation (ECBC) and the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) announced today, Government of Canada funding, under the Business Development Program (BDP), to Copol International Limited of North Sydney.

Copol International is a manufacturer of polypropylene film for packaging. It has operated in the Northside Industrial Park since 1992, employing 55 people. 

To keep pace with industry trends for tighter film gauge specifications, the company is focusing on enhancing its current product with state-of-the-art control systems. This project involves the complete replacement of three gauge control systems, as well as the upgrading of a fourth system.

“Increased export sales are essential to the growth of the Cape Breton Island economy,” said Mark Eyking, M.P. for Sydney-Victoria, speaking on behalf of Minister Byrne. “With the upgrading of the gauge control systems at Copol, this project will result in new business growth and new jobs.”

“Copol is well positioned to take advantage of growth potential in the flexible packaging industry,” said Dave Sawler, General Manager of Operations for Copol International. “With this funding assistance from the Government of Canada, new growth opportunities are opening up for us.” 

The total cost of the project is $500,000 and it will span approximately 18 months with the sequential installation and commissioning of each system. Benefits derived from this project will secure 55 existing jobs, contribute to the continued success of the company and new future employment opportunities. Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation, through ACOA’s Business Development Program, has provided a $250,000 repayable contribution.

Funding for this project was provided for in the February 2000 Federal budget and is therefore built into the existing financial framework.

Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation offers programs in support of economic development initiatives and is responsible for delivering ACOA's programs in Cape Breton and the Mulgrave area.


FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONTACT:

Ralph Meechan
Office of the Minister of State for ECBC & ACOA
Tel: (613) 957-9959
Fax: (613) 941-7844

Office of Mark Eyking, M.P. 
Sydney-Victoria 
Tel.: (902) 567-6275
Fax: (902) 564-2479

Mary Ann MacCormick
Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation
Tel: (902) 564-7269
Fax:(902) 564-3825
Email: mmaccor2@ecbc.ca

Dave Sawler
General Manager of Operations 
Copol International Limited
Tel: (902) 794-9685