EEL GROUND FIRST NATION, April 1, 2004 -- Charles Hubbard, Member of Parliament (Miramichi), on behalf of the Honourable Hélène Chalifour Scherrer, Minister of Canadian Heritage, today announced the participation of the Government of Canada in a project of the Committee for Career Advancement of Aboriginal Women, which will bring together Aboriginal women from across New Brunswick to discuss their role in today's society and the issues that affect them."I am pleased to announce our Government's collaboration with the Committee for Career Advancement of Aboriginal Women, said Mr. Hubbard. "I wish the group much success with its forum, which will help strengthen Aboriginal communities in this region.""Aboriginal women have played a major role in building our country, and will continue to be active in issues that are crucial to the development of Aboriginal communities," said Minister Chalifour Scherrer. "The vitality of Aboriginal communities is an important component of the Government's goal to strengthen Canada's social foundations. We will continue to work with Aboriginal leaders to ensure that all Aboriginal communities across the country have equal access to cultural, economic, and social opportunities."The group received funding of $26,000 to organize the Mawiyahtuwok Ehpijik/E'pitewa'i Mawiomi (Aboriginal Women's Gathering). The forum was held in Fredericton, New Brunswick, from March 12 to 14, 2004. This provincial forum for Aboriginal women aimed to enhance the Aboriginal women's movement in New Brunswick; increase the capacity of Aboriginal women to participate in various sectors of Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal society; and foster opportunities for Aboriginal women to rebuild their communities.Financial assistance is provided by the Department of Canadian Heritage through its Aboriginal Women's Program. This program's mandate is to enable Aboriginal women to influence policies, programs, legislation, and decision making that affect their social, cultural, economic, and political well-being, both in their communities and in Canadian society. It includes components to address issues around family violence and to support the full participation of Aboriginal women in consultations and decision-making processes.Funding for this project was provided for in the March 2004 federal Budget.Information:Keith VicKers Special Assistant Office of Charles Hubbard (613) 992-5335 Mylène DupéréPress SecretaryOffice of the Minister of Canadian Heritage(819) 997-7788
