"Northern Peat Ltd. is a significant employer in West Prince and has an impressive record of export sales," said Minister Shea on behalf of the Honourable Bernard Valcourt, Associate Minister of Defence and Minister of State (Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency) (La Francophonie). "Our Government is committed to helping our small business community pursue innovation in order to enhance its productivity and competitiveness in a demanding global marketplace."

The Government of Canada, through ACOA’s Business Development Program, has provided a loan of $200,000 to help the company purchase new equipment. The Government of Prince Edward Island, through the Department of Innovation and Advanced Learning has also invested an additional $215,000 in this project.

"We are pleased to support this innovative project to strengthen and diversify the economy and enhance job opportunities," said Minister Roach. "This investment will enable Northern Peat Ltd. to expand markets for its products and I wish it continued success."

Northern Peat Ltd. has now purchased specialized equipment to help improve the processing of their peat moss products. This new equipment will help improve the quality and consistency of this product.

"We are very grateful for the support we have received from the federal and provincial governments on Prince Edward Island," said Henry Endres, Northern Peat Ltd. "This new equipment will help us improve our operations and our product as well as meet a growing demand for our peat moss."