GATINEAU, September 29, 2004 -- Member of Parliament (Hull--Aylmer) Marcel Proulx, on behalf of Minister of Canadian Heritage Liza Frulla, today announced $280,145 in funding for the Native Alliance of Quebec (NAQ). The funds will help the NAQ represent Aboriginal people in Quebec, defend their interests, and negotiate agreements with all levels of government."I'm pleased that the Government of Canada supports the Native Alliance of Quebec, which helps ensure that Métis, Non-Status Indians, and off-reserve First Nations people in Quebec have the opportunity to participate in decision-making processes at various levels of government," said Mr. Proulx."I'm glad the Department of Canadian Heritage is able to renew its long-standing partnership with the Native Alliance of Quebec and to encourage the full participation of Aboriginal people in all aspects of Canadian society," added Minister Frulla. Financial assistance is provided by the Department of Canadian Heritage through its Aboriginal Representative Organizations Program. The Program's goal is to maintain a consultative framework of Inuit, Métis, Non-Status Indian, and off-reserve First Nations representative organizations through which governments can address the social, economic, political, and cultural issues affecting the lives of Aboriginal people in Canada.Funding announced today was provided for in the March 2004 federal budget.Information:Donald BoulangerPress SecretaryOffice of the Minister of Canadian Heritage(819) 997-7788 Myriam BrochuChief, Media RelationsCanadian Heritage(819) 997-9314
