Government of Canada supporting Economic Development in Sc’ianew First Nation
News release
September 25, 2018 — Sc’ianew First Nation, BC — Indigenous Services Canada
The Government of Canada is working in partnership with First Nations to support community-driven economic development projects that will help build healthier, more sustainable communities.
Today, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, Marc Miller, on behalf of the Honourable Jane Philpott, Minister of Indigenous Services, announced $2.9 million in the Government of Canada’s support of Sc’ianew (Beecher Bay) First Nation’s plan to build 50,000 square feet of new commercial space as part of their Spirit Bay Town Centre project.
The Spirit Bay Town Centre project is a Band initiative to create economic development on their reserve. Funds will be used to build gas and power line extensions, and prepare the Town Centre site for the construction of commercial buildings. When complete, the space will support their Spirit Bay residential development with a mix of small- to mid-size retail and commercial businesses, such as a medical facility, gas station, grocery store, fish shop and coffee shop.
$2.9 million in funding was provided through the ISC Community Opportunity Readiness Program, which helps Indigenous communities realize the full potential of economic opportunities.
Quotes
“The Government of Canada is pleased to support First Nations by investing in infrastructure that will foster economic opportunity. Community-driven projects like Sc’ianew First Nation’s commercial development play an important part in building healthier, more sustainable communities.”
The Honourable Jane Philpott, M.D., P.C., M.P.
Minister of Indigenous Services
“Sustained economic success for First Nation communities is a priority for the Government of Canada. This investment will contribute to the growth and well-being of the Sc’ianew First Nation, create jobs and capitalize on economic opportunities.”
Marc Miller, Parliamentary Secretary
Crown-Indigenous Relations
“Our Nation, Beecher Bay, is bootstrapping its way forward with the help of this funding from ISC and the support of Minister Philpott. We are creating a showcase for how large scale sustainable development, like Spirit Bay, can be a richly rewarding endeavour for our community, and our neighbours. We are working to create a template here in Beecher Bay that can be replicated in other First Nations across Canada -- Nations that are looking for true stewardship and sustainability and to create economic development and independence. Spirit Bay is creating jobs and opportunities for our people now, and a bright path forward for our children, and for coming generations.”
Chief Russ Chipps
Sc’ianew First Nation
Quick facts
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Sc’ianew First Nation anticipates the Spirit Bay Town Centre project will create 46 full-time and 36 part-time jobs, and eight spin-off businesses.
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The Spirit Bay Town Centre will support the Spirit Bay Development, a residential development of up to 500 homes.
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The development projects $18 million in economic benefits to the community over eight years.
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Sc’ianew First Nation partnered with Camosun College to provide 30 band members with trades training for the Spirit Bay Town Centre and Development projects.
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Sc’ianew First Nation has a population of 242 with 84 living on reserve.
Associated links
Contacts
Rachel Rappaport
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Jane Philpott
Minister of Indigenous Services
819-934-2796
Media Relations
Indigenous Services Canada
819-953-1160
SAC.media.ISC@canada.ca
Sc'ianew First Nation
Ruth Sauder, Chief Administrative Officer
250-478-3535
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