Web Archive
May 7, 2010
For immediate release
Premier Ghiz Urges Biotechnology Industry to Come to Atlantic Canada
Innovation and Advanced Learning
Premier Ghiz, who spoke Tuesday morning on behalf of the Atlantic Provinces, delivered a welcome speech to thousands of attendees, reminding them that biotechnology brings Atlantic Canada $300 million annually and generates $200 million in research and development expenditures.
“The Government of PEI recently announced the development of a $30 million BioCommons Research Park, to be located in Prince Edward Island along with significant investments to support People, Training and Innovation,” he said. “It is investments such as these that are occurring across Atlantic Canada which provide a great foundation for the development of Atlantic Canada’s biotechnology sector and for us to act as an important gateway to Europe and the world.”
Prince Edward Island’s bioscience sector employs over 800 people and is responsible for more than $88 million in sales annually.
This year’s BIO Exhibition covered an estimated 180,000 square feet and was expected to host more than 1,700 exhibitors, and to welcome delegations from 35 nations – along with several US governors and members of US President Barack Obama’s administration.
In 2009, the BIO Exhibition attracted 14,352 attendees and saw more than 14,000 scheduled half-hour meetings take place between delegates in attendance.
