ABBOTSFORD, BC, Aug. 9, 2012 /CNW/ - David Schellenberg, Chairman of the Aerospace Industries Association of Canada (AIAC) and President and CEO of Cascade Aerospace and the Conair Group stated today that the outcome of the current Aerospace Review led by the Honourable David Emerson will be critical to the future of the Canadian aerospace industry.

During a keynote speech at the Abbotsford Aerospace and Defence Expo, which coincided with the 50th Abbotsford Air Show, Schellenberg stated that "although Canada is a world leader in aerospace, several nations around the world really want a piece of our high-tech, knowledge based industry. Our market share is definitely under threat."

"I want to sincerely thank the Harper government and particularly Minister Christian Paradis for the vision they demonstrated in launching [the Aerospace] Review," Schellenberg said. "But the work is only beginning. There will be a need for a significant overhaul of policies and programs if we are to remain competitive and keep creating high paying, long-term jobs for Canadians from coast to coast."

Schellenberg commented that implications for the Aerospace Review go beyond the aerospace industry, and that the aerospace industry looks forward to working with the government at getting this right for the benefits of all Canadians. "A nation which excels at aerospace can excel at anything." he concluded.

For a full version of the speech please visit http://www.aiac.ca.

The AIAC is the national association representing Canada's aerospace manufacturing and services sector. As the world's fifth-largest aerospace industry, Canada's aerospace sector generates than $22 billion and employed 87,000 Canadians. Nearly three quarters of Canadian aerospace products are exported. AIAC represents the interests of 500 aerospace companies across Canada.

SOURCE: Aerospace Industries Association of Canada

Maryse Harvey Vice-President Public Affairs Aerospace Industries Association of Canada 613 760-4562 mharvey@aiac.ca

Kristen VanderHoek Director of Communications Aerospace Industries Association of Canada 613 232-4297 x225 kvanderhoek@aiac.ca

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Schellenberg: Outcome of Aerospace Review Will Be Vital to Industry's Future