News Release

SAINT-FRANÇOIS DE MADAWASKA (GNB) – The provincial and federal governments are investing more than $400,000 to help the Atelier des copains co-op ltée with infrastructure improvements.

“Our government is pleased to contribute to improvements to the Atelier des copains in Saint-François de Madawaska through the Regional Development Corporation and the Northern and Miramichi funds,” said Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour Minister Francine Landry. “This financial support will enable the organization to make leasehold improvements and purchase equipment to increase the efficiency and profitability of recycling operations while contributing to the province’s economic development.”

Landry spoke on behalf of Health Minister Victor Boudreau, who is also minister responsible for the Regional Development Corporation.

The project involves equipment modifications and building improvements, including the redesign of the sorting facility. With this project, the Atelier des copains will be able to increase its recycling capacity from 1,400 tonnes to 5,000 tonnes of recyclable materials. The improvements and changes to the existing facility will render the recycling process more efficient, improve daily activities, and help create new business opportunities.

“Our government’s investment will assist the Atelier des copains to improve its sorting and recycling operations while enhancing the quality of the service it provides to its client base, and supporting the role it plays in offering training and employment to area residents with disabilities,” said federal Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Minister Bernard Valcourt.

Valcourt spoke on behalf of Minister of State for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) Rob Moore.

The provincial government, through the Regional Development Corporation, is contributing $125,000. The federal government, through ACOA’s Innovative Communities Fund, is investing $281,350.

“Today, it is with great excitement and pride that we look towards a very bright future for the Atelier des copains,” said Paul Cyr, president of the Atelier des copains. “The work and vision of dedicated and generous individuals and support from our provincial and federal governments have made this dream into a reality. Thanks to you, we will transform our sorting centre into a more efficient, productive and valued space for our employees. We would like to take this opportunity to extend a sincere and massive thank you to each and every one of you. We are so grateful for the trust you place in us.”

Established as a co-operative in 1978, the Atelier des copains offers the ADAPT Program. This program offers personal development and enrichment activities to encourage socialization and support for people with special needs. The activities of the atelier target people with disabilities from northwest New Brunswick.