Ottawa, Ontario (April 1, 2008) - The following statement was released by the Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians, regarding g funding to the First Nations Technical Institute (FNTI) by the Province of Ontario:
"It is encouraging to see that the Ontario government is recognizing its responsibility for Aboriginal post-secondary education.
When my Departme nt last met with FNTI officials, we proposed a strategic consultant to assist them in their financial planning. I understand the funding from the province is contingent on a number of conditions , including FNTI using such a consultant.
While the Government of Canada does provide annual funding to FNTI, post-secondary education institutions are normally a provincial responsibility. To ensure the completion of this semester, our government contributed a supplementary, one-time contribution of $528,121, over and above our annual contribution. This is the third consecuti ve year the government has provided additional funding to the institute.
We remain committed to working with FNTI officials to find creative solutions to their current difficulties and to help it evolve into a fully self-sufficient and sustainable educational institution.
We continue to encourage FNTI to seek alternative funding sources such as the private sector, t he Ontario government, the business community, and alumni. This will enable FNTI to provide high quality courses to First Nations students. I would like to recognize MP Darryl Kramp (Prince Edward-Hastings) for his efforts in helping bring the province to the table."
For further information please contact:
Minister's Office
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Chuck Strahl
819-997-0002
Media Relations
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
8 19-953-1160
