OTTAWA, ONTARIO (April 15, 2008) – The Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians, today announced the appointment of Ms. Francine Whiteduck to the Board of the First Nations Statistical Institute (FNSI).
AMs. Whiteduck's experience working with such a wide range of Aboriginal and developmental organizations makes her a valuable asset to FNSI," said the Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and non-Status Indians. "On behalf of our Government, I wish to congratulate her on her appointment."
The FNSI is one of four First Nation institutions created through the First Nations Fiscal and Statistical Management Act which came into force on April 1, 2006. This First Nation-led initiative established an institutional framework to provide First Nation governments with the practical tools available to other levels of government for modern fiscal and statistical management. These tools include an independent financial management assessment service and a bond financing regime. This appointment is for a duration of three years.
Working with First Nations and governments, the First Nations Statistical Institute will increase the accuracy, utility and relevance of First Nations information. As FNSI is the only First Nations-led federal Crown Corporation in Canada, FNSI marks an important step in First Nations - government relations.
Biography – Francine Whiteduck
For further information please contact:
Minister's Office
Josée Bellemare
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Chuck Strahl
819-997-0002
Media Relations
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
(819) 953-1160
