Today, the Government of Canada announced support for site development of a new commercial project on Metepenagiag First Nation’s urban reserve in Moncton (New Brunswick). The project will provide water and wastewater infrastructure, create jobs, and provide economic opportunities for the community and city.

"This project is an important step that will help foster economic growth for Metepenagiag First Nation. It sets the stage for commercial development and economic benefits for the community and the region and includes job creation, something that has never been more important. The Government of Canada is proud to invest in projects like this as part of its commitment to support commercial and economic development on reserve."

The Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor
Member of Parliament for Moncton—Riverview—Dieppe 

"It is with great pride that I acknowledge the generous support and collaborative efforts from various stakeholders on the future commercial development of this site. This project has been a longstanding priority for our community and will be the first of many economic successes that will not only provide future prosperity for Metepenagiag Mi'kmaq Nation but also greatly benefits our partnership with the City of Moncton. I look forward to the completion of this project, continued partnerships, and future economic opportunities that will advance our communities' priorities."

Bill Ward
Chief of Metepenagiag First Nation 

"The City of Moncton is proud to collaborate on the development of this land with partners at other levels of government as well as the Metepenagiag Mi'kmaq Nation. This land is within an emerging growth area in the City and we are thrilled to be a partner on the project to encourage economic growth in the region while also building on our Strategic Plan priorities that include working with First Nations and encouraging  development in high potential future growth areas."

Dawn Arnold
Mayor of Moncton 

"I want to congratulate the community of Metepenagiag and their leadership – Chief Bill Ward and his Council. This is an important commercial development that will provide many opportunities for the region as well as economic growth for the community."

Arlene Dunn
Minister of New Brunswick Aboriginal Affairs 

• Metepenagiag First Nation is located at the head of the Miramichi River in New Brunswick with a total of 694 community members. 

• The creation of Metepenagiag Urban Reserve 3 in Moncton, New Brunswick was finalized in March 2019. 

• Funding for this project was provided through the Community Opportunity Readiness Program (CORP). 

• CORP funding helps First Nations and Inuit communities develop business plans, expand existing Indigenous-led businesses, and launch new Indigenous-led start-ups. 

Associated links

• Community Opportunity Readiness Program (CORP)
• Urban Reserves

For more information, media may contact:

Adrienne Vaupshas
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Marc Miller
Minister of Indigenous Services
adrienne.vaupshas@canada.ca

Media Relations
Indigenous Services Canada
819-953-1160
SAC.media.ISC@canada.ca

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