CFLC News
DND, Province of Nova Scotia, and Michelin sign Statements of Support for Reserve Force
By Mrs. VALERIE KEYES
ED CFLC
Michelin Canada formally declared its support for Canada's Reserve Force by signing a Statement of Support Friday, November 27. Mr. Dana Leblanc, Plant Manager for Michelin's Bridgewater facility and President of the Michelin Senior Management Team for Nova Scotia, joined other dignitaries at the Waterville Plant, to celebrate the company's milestone.
During the event, Brigadier General David Neasmith, Commander Land Force Atlantic Area, presented Michelin with a plaque, recognising the company's support for Transition Assistance Program (TAP) administered by the Department of National Defence for the support of injured and retired military personnel and their families.
The Province of Nova Scotia was represented by The Honourable Ramona Jennex, Minister for Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Affairs, and Member of the Legislative Assembly for the riding of King's South. Ms. Jennex signed a Statement of Support on behalf of the Province.
"I want to congratulate Michelin for their support of Reservists as well as their participation in the Transition Assistance Program," said Jennex. "By signing this statement today, on behalf of Premier Dexter, Nova Scotia is reaffirming its recognition of the vital role of Reservists and the valuable contribution they make to Canada's defence, their communities, educational institutions and their civilian employers."
In a letter addressed to Michelin, the Minister of National Defence, the Honourable Peter MacKay said that, "The signing of such a Statement is an important step in showing how we value not only the service of Reservists, but also the sacrifice we ask our employers to make in order grant leave to their Reservists-employees to deploy on missions or to undertake military training."
The event at the Waterville Plant was organised with the co-operation of the Canadian Forces Liaison Council. Mr. George Cooper, CFLC Provincial Chair for Nova Scotia, and Board Chair of the Halifax law firm of McInnes, Cooper, highlighted the benefits that Reservists bring to the civilian workplace. "Reservists through their military training acquire specific skills that are beneficial to all employers, such as leadership skills, time and personnel management skills, and the ability to think quickly and make decisions in difficult circumstances," Mr. Cooper stated. "Michelin Tire is the largest private sector employer in Nova Scotia and their three plants are an economic mainstay in three separate regions of Nova Scotia. This innovative and enlightened employer is once again showing the way through its support for Canada's Reserve Force. The CFLC salutes Michelin and its employees for the fine example they are providing."
