Fredericton (January 28, 2005) -- The Honourable Andy Scott, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians, today announced $42,900 in Government of Canada funding for the National Association of Friendship Centres (NAFC). This funding, through the Federal Interlocutor Contribution Program, will be used for a pilot project to produce an annual report card. The card will indicate how all public funds received by Friendship Centres are used and the results achieved during that year. This will further enhance the transparency and accountability around the use of public funds and the project will help strengthen the capacity of local Friendship Centres to respond to local community priorities and needs. "These funds further illustrate the Government of Canada's commitment to Aboriginal peoples," said Minister Scott. "Friendship Centres, as community-based and directed Aboriginal institutions serving the interests of urban Aboriginal people in the areas of social, cultural, recreational, economic and community development, are vital partners in the delivery of programs and services." "The Friendship Centre Movement is excited about this opportunity to improve our ability to report on the results we achieve for urban Aboriginal people," said Vera Pawis Tabobondung, President of the NAFC. "We look forward to better demonstrating the valuable services we provide." The role of the Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians was created in 1985, to provide a direct liaison between the Government of Canada and organizations representing these groups. Minister Andy Scott, as the Federal Interlocutor, advocates for the benefit of Métis and Non-Status Indians as well as all urban Aboriginal people in Cabinet, with other levels of government, partners and other stakeholders to improve the life chances of Métis and Non-Status Indians and urban Aboriginal peoples. More information on the Office of the Federal Interlocutor can be found at: http://www.ainc-inac.gc.ca/interloc. The National Association of Friendship Centres is a national Aboriginal organization representing the concerns of 117 cultural and community development organizations across Canada. The NAFC was established in 1972 to represent the growing number of Friendship Centres, as well as the clients they serve, at the national level. - 30 - For further information contact: Diane Laursen INAC Media Relations (819) 994-2044 Peter Dinsdale NAFC Executive Director (613) 563-4844 ext. 318
