Government of Canada invests in New Schools for Northern Manitoba First Nations

News Release

July 11, 2016 – Ottawa, ON – Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada

The Government of Canada believes every First Nation child should get the best start in life and is committed to working in partnership with First Nations to support a quality education for First Nations youth.

Today, the Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs, the Honourable Carolyn Bennett, announced a major milestone in plans to build four new schools and renovate two schools in four remote Manitoba First Nation communities.

INAC and the participating First Nations — Bunibonibee Cree Nation, God’s Lake First Nation, Manto Sipi Cree Nation, and Wasagamack First Nation — have jointly selected AECOM as the project manager to oversee the design and construction of the new and renovated schools.

This new initiative will allow for more effective and efficient construction and renovation of schools allowing students in these four communities to have access to quality learning environments sooner.

Quote

“I am certain that these new schools are an important step in creating hope and achieving success for the inspiring young people of Bunibonibee Cree Nation, God’s Lake First Nation, Manto Sipi Cree Nation, and Wasagamack First Nation.”

The Honourable Carolyn Bennett, M.D., P.C., M.P.,
Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs

Quick facts

  • The Government of Canada is providing $6 million to AECOM for project management services for the six on-reserve schools.
  • Separate contractors will be hired for the school construction and renovation.
  • The entire cost of construction of the schools will be determined once a contractor has been selected from an open tendering process.
  • Population of the participating First Nations:
    • Bunibonibee Cree Nation: 2,288 people;
    • God’s Lake First: 2,455 people;
    • Manto Sipi Cree Nation: 799 people;
    • Wasagamack First Nation: 2,119 people.

Associated links

Contacts

Sabrina Williams
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Carolyn Bennett
819-997-0002

Media Relations
Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada
819-953-1160

Follow us on Twitter: @AANDCanada

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2016-11-01