Vancouver (June 13, 2008) - The Government of Canada today announced the conclusion of Olympic Legacy Agreements with the Musqueam First Nation and Tsleil-Waututh First Nation which will help ensure that Aboriginal people share in the economic, social and cultural benefits of hosting the 2010 Winter Games.
"Our government is following through on our commitment to make real and tangible improvements in the lives of First Nations people in our country," said Minister Strahl. "These agreements will help the Musqueam and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations seize the tremendous opportunity the 2010 Winter Games present to build lasting, positive legacies for present and future generations."
Collectively referred to as the Four Host First Nations (FHFN), the Musqueam and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations, together with the Lil'Wat and Squamish First Nations, will host many of the 2010 events on their asserted traditional land.
"The Government of Canada strongly believes that the involvement of Aboriginal peoples is vital to the overall success of the 2010 Winter Games," said David Emerson, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade and Minister for the Pacific Gateway and the Vancouver–Whistler Olympics. "The leaders of the Four Host First Nations recognized very early on that the Vancouver 2010 Winter Games represented a tremendous opportunity for their communities, and for all First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples."
"The Musqueam people are proud to welcome the Olympics, and the world, to our traditional territory," said Chief Ernest Campbell. "This honourable agreement will help us build a stronger, healthier community and ensure that current and future generations of the Musqueam people, will share in the legacy of the Olympics."
"Tsleil-Waututh welcomes all athletes, participants and visitors to our territory to celebrate the 2010 Games," said Chief Leah George-Wilson. "Our culture, our land and our people are our most valuable assets. This Legacy will enable us to repatriate some of the land that is critical to us for our community's future."
The Legacy Agreements provide the Musqueam and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations with the opportunity to purchase land, build capacity, enhance their skills, and develop their economy.
Backgrounder - Olympic Legacy Agreements
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
819-953-1160
