MONCTON, April 4, 2013 /CNW/ - Co-operators General Insurance Company, based in Guelph, Ont., will create up to 25 jobs in 2013 as it establishes its new agency contact centre in Moncton.

Premier David Alward joined Brian Gaudette, Atlantic vice-president for The Co-operators, for the announcement today.

"We are pleased that another national company has chosen to expand its operations in Moncton and partner with our government to create new jobs in our communities," said Alward. "The Co-operators share our government's confidence in New Brunswick's innovative workforce, and this investment is another step forward in our plan to rebuild our economy through smart solutions."

"This new agency contact centre and the bilingual team we are putting together will further enhance the industry-leading service we provide to clients across the country," said Gaudette. "We are thrilled to be creating new jobs in Moncton and thankful for the government's support."

Under the terms of an agreement, Invest NB will provide support of up to $175,000 in the form of payroll rebates for the 25 positions created at the Moncton location. The site is one of four Co-operators agency contact centres in Canada and will serve markets in Eastern Ontario and Atlantic Canada.

The payroll rebate will help offset the cost of internal training for the new employees. The investment will contribute more than $4.2 million annually to New Brunswick's Gross Domestic Product once all the positions are filled.

About Invest NB

Invest NB is a Crown corporation focused on strategically developing foreign direct investment opportunities and encouraging job creation in New Brunswick. Guided by a private-sector board of directors, its programs are designed to support and promote foreign direct investment by attracting new industries and supporting the expansion of existing industries within its core sectors.

About The Co-operators

The Co-operators Group Ltd. is a Canadian-owned co-operative with more than $35 billion in assets under administration. Through its group of companies it offers home, auto, life, group, travel, commercial and farm insurance as well as investment products. The Co-operators is well known for its community involvement and its commitment to sustainability. The Co-operators is listed among the 50 Best Employers in Canada and Corporate Knights' Best 50 Corporate Citizens in Canada. For more information, visit www.cooperators.ca.

SOURCE: The Co-operators