Mr. Speaker, with regard to research and development, R&D, the response is as follows: a) The conditions set out by the governments of Canada and Ontario for Chrysler Canada to receive additional support included assurances that Chrysler will encourage training and R&D in Canada in partnership with Fiat.
For General Motors (GM), at the time the agreement was signed, the government required, and GM made a commitment worth approximately CAN$1 billion toward R&D investments in Canada starting in 2010 and going through 2016.
b) Chrysler has undertaken to develop linkages between Fiat’s research activity and Canadian universities, colleges and other research institutions with respect to automotive R&D and educational activities. Chrysler also performs R&D activities in Canada at its Automotive Research and Development Centre, a joint venture between Chrysler Canada and the University of Windsor.
GM plans to invest approximately CAN$1 billion over the next seven years in green R&D and innovation focusing on energy diversification, fuel economy improvements and vehicle electrification, through its Oshawa-based engineering centre. Canadian suppliers and universities will be critical partners in this research and innovation.
c) The information is commercially confidential.