Province Invests in Creating More Good Jobs

A major employer in the Pictou County region is creating good jobs and more opportunities for current employees with support from the province.

Economic and Rural Development Minister Percy Paris announced a $450,000 loan to Pictou Lodge Beachfront Resort, today, Jan. 5.

"We are happy to help companies that are making the necessary changes to stay competitive and working to create more good jobs," said Mr. Paris. "Pictou Lodge sets an example of how jobsHere is already making a difference in rural Nova Scotia."

With the support of this loan, provided through the Industrial Expansion Fund, the number of employees is expected to grow and some seasonal employees will be able to work for the resort year-round.

"Pictou Lodge is a reputable, long-standing, rural employer," said Mr. Paris. "The loan will help the company grow its business through facility upgrades, new sales and marketing initiatives and staff training and development."

During the past four years, the company has invested more than $4 million in infrastructure to differentiate itself from its competition. Recent projects have restored and winterized the resort, doubled conference and meeting space, and upgraded the kitchen and dining facilities to accommodate several functions simultaneously. The resort has also upgraded its water treatment facility, creating environmental benefits for the Northumberland Shore.

"We are proud to report that we have doubled staffing hours during the past four years," said Pictou Lodge Beachfront Resort president, Calvin Wadden. "We also increased our staff by 14 to reach a total of 74 skilled people working with us during this past peak season. With the announcement of this loan, we are now searching for five new people to add to our staff and we're planning a job fair for March.

"We're really excited about the new market potential that this loan and all of our upgrades provides us."

jobsHere is the provincial economic growth plan to strengthen Nova Scotia's workforce with the right skills for good jobs, increase productivity and advance global competitiveness to grow the economy and make life better for families.

The Industrial Expansion Fund is one method the province uses to support economic development in all regions of Nova Scotia. It helps industries involved in innovative research and technology and contributes to a prosperous, sustainable business climate for Nova Scotia.