CADSI Welcomes Leadership and Progress from Public Works Minister on Defence Procurement Reform

Defence and security sector pleased with measures in implementation of Budget 2013 commitments to improve procurement

OTTAWA, May 29, 2013 /CNW/ - The Canadian Association of Defence and Security Industries (CADSI) welcomed the leadership shown today by Public Works Minister Rona Ambrose with regard to the implementation of commitments to improve defence procurement.  In a speech to delegates at CANSEC, Canada's foremost defence technology showcase, the Minister outlined concrete progress taking place within government on delivering the significant enhancements to defence procurement announced by the government in Budget 2013.  Her speech followed remarks by OpenText chairman Tom Jenkins, whose report on defence procurement provided much of the foundation for the Budget commitment.

"CADSI members, CANSEC exhibitors, and the defence and security industry were pleased to hear these further commitments today regarding the government's plan to leverage domestic defence procurement to drive innovation, exports, job creation and growth for the sector, while providing the Canadian military with the highest-quality equipment available," said Tim Page, President of CADSI.  "We thank Minister Ambrose for her leadership on this file, and we welcome the progress she outlined today.  The measures to which she has committed are most welcome, and fit well within the bold direction the government has taken."

In the Budget, the government committed to "better ensure that purchases of military equipment create economic opportunities for Canadians by developing key domestic industrial capabilities to help guide procurement, by promoting export opportunities, and by reforming the current procurement process to improve outcomes."

"Our industry remains encouraged by Minister Ambrose's willingness to work closely with us to create a new framework for defence and security procurement," said Mr. Page.  Minister Ambrose's speech outlined commitments to significant and specific measures that will form part of this framework.  She also affirmed that companies that receive federal research and development support or that work with Defence Research and Development Canada will not be prohibited from competing for related government contracts.

"Minister Ambrose has placed a high priority on this file, working closely with industry this spring and seeking input on how to put the government's commitments on defence procurement into action," said Mr. Page.  "We commend her for the engaged, consultative approach she has taken.

"CADSI has welcomed the commitment from government to do military procurement more strategically and effectively," said Mr. Page.  "We look forward to hearing more at CANSEC from her colleagues, Ministers Findlay and Paradis, about how a whole-of-government approach to defence procurement will continue to take shape."

A two-day event, CANSEC features 120,000 square feet of indoor exhibits by Canada's leading edge defence and security companies, as well as an outdoor static display.

CADSI is the voice of Canada's defence and security industries. CADSI represents over 950 member companies who are essential contributors to Canada's national defence and security. The sector employs 109, 000 Canadians and generated over 12.6 billion dollars to the Canadian economy in 2011.

For more information on CADSI visit: https://www.defenceandsecurity.ca

SOURCE: Canadian Association of Defence and Security Industries (CADSI)

Christel Gallant 613-235-5337 ext 29