On her first business trip overseas representing the City, Mayor Linda Jeffrey pitched Brampton as astrong and fast-growing human health and sciences hub to several business interests in Israel.
Mayor Jeffrey was among a group of government and business representatives, along with Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne, that visited Israel for a trade mission (May 15 – 20).
“The individuals I met from Ontario and the Middle East are excited and interested in our community and the diverse, young and high skilled workforce,” said Jeffrey.
The delegation also included Ontario companies pursuing trade opportunities, as well as institutions interested in collaborating with Israeli firms on research and development projects.
Mayor Jeffery identified 16 business prospects, 14 of those in the human health and sciences sector. Along with the Minister of Health and Long-Term Care, Eric Hoskins, she visited the Medtronic Tel Aviv office. Medtronic’s Canadian headquarters is located in Brampton. Brampton is home to several other leading human health and sciences companies including Canadian Blood Services, Tara Pharmaceuticals Inc.,Dynacare Medical Laboratories, Stericycle Canada and MDA Space Missions.
Mayor Jeffery also visited Tel Aviv University, an institution on the cutting edge of medical research. Tel Aviv University is currently working with several Canadian educational institutions, and looking to partner with hospitals to further their research. The timing of the new Peel Memorial Centre for Integrated Health and Wellness opening makes Brampton a good fit for collaboration. William Osler Health System is a major employer in Brampton. It includes Brampton Civic Hospital and the new Peel Memorial Centre for Integrated Health and Wellness, a redevelopment of the former Peel Memorial Hospital, slated to open to the public in early 2017.
City of Brampton staff will provide follow up and complete required action items on the leads obtained during the trade mission. Brampton looks forward to an economically prosperous relationship with the Israeli government and business community.