BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS, (December 6, 2004) -- The Honourable Andy Scott, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians, is pleased to announce an investment of $140,000 in the Nunavut Boston Trade Mission during today's opening of the Nunavut exhibit at the Peabody Essex Museum in Boston. Indian and Northern Affairs Canada funding helped the Government of Nunavut organize the Nunavut Boston Trade Mission by developing business and implementation plans, and coordinating partners for events and activities. Minister Scott sees the Nunavut Boston Trade Mission as a great opportunity. "Nunavut has so much to offer. Showcasing the territory in this way will see long term economic benefits as the door opens between Nunavut and the New England states." The Nunavut Boston Trade Mission hopes to raise Nunavut's cultural and economic profile in New England and broaden commercial ties to the world. Planning for the Mission began in January 2002 with events running from November 2004 until March 2005 in the Boston area. Activities promote Inuit artists, art and culture, eco-tourism, seafood and country food exports, and other business and investment opportunities in Nunavut. Mission organizers include the Government of Canada, the territorial departments of Economic Development and Transportation, Culture Language Elders Youth and the Department of Environment, Canadian Tourism Commission, Nunavut Tourism, Nunavut Arts and Crafts Association and Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated. This project was funded under Indian and Northern Affairs Canada programs that support economic development activities in Aboriginal and Northern communities. - 30 - For more information, please contact: Maria O'Hearn Indian and Northern Affairs Canada ¿ Nunavut Communications Tel: 867 979-7954 E-mail: ohearnm@inac.gc.ca
