DEER LAKE FIRST NATION, ONTARIO (January 14, 2004) - Deer Lake First Nation, in partnership with Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, is today officially celebrating the grand opening of a new school in the community. The Government of Canada, through Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, has provided $13,995,000 to Deer Lake First Nation, which managed the design and construction of the school. Clearing and construction work began in June of 2003. The new 3,561 square metre community school, offering Kindergarten through Grade 10 programming, is expected to accommodate up to 354 students. The new school contains a total of ten classrooms; a gymnasium and washroom/shower facilities; a library/resource centre; a multi-purpose facility for Native language and special education uses; a computer room; labs for home economics, science and industrial arts classes; and administration and staff rooms. The First Nation and its Education Authority are still selecting a name for the facility. Speaking at the opening ceremonies in Deer Lake First Nation on behalf of the Honourable Andy Scott, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians, Kenora M.P. Roger Valley said, “I want to congratulate Deer Lake First Nation on this important accomplishment. This is a good example of how the Government of Canada, as promised in the October 2004 Speech from the Throne, and at the April 2004 Canada–Aboriginal Peoples Roundtable, is working in partnership with First Nations to help create conditions for the long-term development of First Nation communities. Quality education is an essential component for helping achieve this development.” Deer Lake Chief Archie Meekis said he’s proud of the new school. “This will help our young people learn the skills they need to grow, prosper and succeed, while helping them maintain their language and cultural heritage. Our young people represent our future, and the better prepared they are, the better the future will be for them, and the community.” Mr. Valley also congratulated Deer Lake First Nation for their work on a new diesel generating system, supplying power for the community, including the new school. The Government of Canada, through INAC, provided $6 million, and the First Nation managed the design and construction of the new diesel powered generation system. The new facility, which includes three generators and a control room, is also connected to a hydorelectric power dam. This allows more power to be distributed by the new system during the months when the dam is creating electricity. Work on the power generation project began early in 2004. The Deer Lake First Nation is located approximately 180 kilometres north of Red Lake, Ontario. It has an on-reserve population of approximately 840, and a total membership of approximately 1,000. It is accessible year-round by air, and by ice road during the coldest months of the winter. - 30 - For further information, please contact: Susan Bertrand, Senior Information Officer INAC Communications (807) 624-1531 Chief Archie Meekis Deer Lake First Nation (807) 775-2141
