News Release

Councillor Welcomes Huge Investment in North End Plant

(Thursday, October 4/07)-- Halifax North End Councillor Patrick Murphy today welcomed the announcement by Labatt Breweries of Canada of a $45 million upgrade to the Oland Brewery in Halifax.

Councillor Murphy said the upgrade will protect existing jobs in Halifax and provide greater opportunities for marketing Keith’s Pale Ale globally.

“Congratulations to management of Labatt Canada and the union leadership under Larry Deal and his team, all members of Local 361 of the Brewery and Soft Drink Workers Union,” the Councillor said. “By everyone working together, this global opportunity will result in $45 million investment in our north end brewery.”

Councillor Murphy also extended congratulations to Premier Rodney MacDonald and the Nova Scotia government for its infusion of $4.5 million into the project.

“This shows that through cooperation and partnership, we can protect jobs in Halifax and hopefully create more, as well as better promote the branding of Keith’s Pale Ale around the world,” he said.

The Oland Brewery plant exports 65 per cent of its product outside of the Maritimes. Keith's India Pale Ale is currently Canada's number one premium domestic specialty brand.

The investment announced today will allow the company to better compete in markets outside of the Maritimes and will increase production capacity here.

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Councillor Patrick Murphy
476-2238