WHITEHORSE, YUKON (February 7, 2007) - The Honourable Jim Prentice, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development (INAC) and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians, is pleased to announce an investment of $1.75 million over two years for the Great River Journey - an adventure tourism project that will take clients on a trip along on the historic Yukon River.
The project is a partnership between Great Northern Journeys Inc. and the FNIC Development Corporation, a consortium of First Nations. The investment will be used for project development, including the creation of a business plan, market research, site research and development and staff training. It is expected that over the next five years more than 30 jobs could be created in the region, and revenue to First Nations communities could be more than $5 million.
The Great River Journey's inaugural trip will be held at the beginning of summer 2007.
"The Great River Journey project illustrates what governments, First Nations, and private enterprise can do when they work together on economic development and tourism," said Minister Prentice. "Canada's New Government is pleased to support this world-class endeavour, which helps Yukoners compete in the international tourism industry and provides a once-in-a-lifetime experience for its clients as they enjoy the beauty and unique history of the Yukon."
The project will be funded through the federal Targeted Investment Program, which is a component of the Strategic Investments in Northern Economic Development initiative.
"We're proud of the Great River Journey project," said George Asquith, a partner in the initiative. "The funding we received from the Targeted Investment Program made the task of getting this business up and running possible for all the partners involved."
"I am honoured to speak on behalf of the four First Nations, which, as partners in Great River Journey, have taken a significant position in developing this Yukon-based tourism product," said Judy Gingell, FNIC spokesperson. "The Great River Journey will take place on and through our traditional lands and showcase our history and culture. We look forward to welcoming Great River Journey guests; we know we will have a special relationship with them."
The Targeted Investment Program (TIP) is one of a series of northern economic development programs offered by Indian and Northern Affairs Canada under the umbrella framework of Strategic Investments in Northern Economic Development. The goal of TIP is to expand business and employment opportunities for Northerners, improve diversification of the territorial economies, and increase economic self-reliance.
For further information, contact:
Line Gagnon,
Communications Manager
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada - Yukon Region
(867) 667-3315
Great Northern Journey Inc.
George Asquith
Great River Journey
(867) 456-2421
FNIC Development Corporation
Judy Gingell
(867) 333-3191
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