News Release

For immediate release 
March 26, 2003

Hydraulic and Marine Service Business Expanding with Help from Government of Canada

MABOU, N.S. -- 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 toward expansion of a hydraulic and marine service business in Mabou.
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Ed’s Hydraulic & Marine Services Limited has received funding towards construction of a building and the purchase of welding and fabrication equipment that will allow the business to grow and to expand its customer base. The new building, which will re-locate to a more visible location on Highway 19 in Mabou, will be double the size of its current location allowing it to service its customers more effectively.

“The expansion of Ed’s Hydraulic and Marine Services is helping to bring sustainable growth to Mabou,” says Rodger Cuzner, MP for Bras d’Or-Cape Breton speaking on behalf of Minister Byrne. “With an increase in service comes an increase in business and that equals more full-time, year-round jobs for the people of this area in the future.” 

“With assistance from ACOA to expand, I can provide better service to my customers,” says Eddie MacDonald, co-owner of Ed’s Hydraulic and Marine Services Limited. “I can also expand my customer base as there is an increased demand for the specialized products and services we provide.” 

The total estimated cost of the project is $283,900. The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, through its Business Development Program, will provide a repayable contribution of $128,000. The expansion is expected to result in the creation of two more full-time jobs.

Ed’s Hydraulic & Marine Services Limited has been in operation in Mabou since 1995. The company operates as a repair facility and installer of components related to equipment for the marine, agricultural and forestry industries. The company currently employs five people on a full-time basis. 

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


FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONTACT:

Ralph Meechan 
Office of the Honourable Gerry Byrne 
Minister of State 
Tel: (613) 941-7241

Office of Rodger Cuzner, MP
Bras d’Or-Cape Breton
Tel: (902) 842-9763 

Mary Ann MacCormick 
ECBC Communications 
Tel: (902) 564-7269
Fax: (902) 564-3825
Email: mmaccor2@ecbc.ca

Eddie MacDonald
President, Ed’s Hydraulic & Marine Services Limited
Tel: (902) 945-2231