Ottawa, Ontario (March 23, 2009) - Members of the Chemainus First Nation will benefit from a major school construction project as a result of an investment made by the Government of Canada.
The Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians, today announced support for construction of the new Stu"ate Lelum Secondary School for the First Nation community of Chemainus.
"Providing quality learning environments is an essential component for educational success," said Minister Strahl. "The Government of Canada is pleased to be investing in a project that will provide the Chemainus community with an educational facility that meets the need of their growing community and will help students acquire the skills they need to succeed."
The new secondary school will serve the Chemainus First Nation community's Grade 7-12 students and replace the existing educational facility which is undersized and consists of several portables and a converted restaurant. The new school will be located near the core of the First Nation where other community services exist such as the elementary school, elders centre, daycare, community buildings and sport facilities.
"Education of our young children and adults has always been a high priority for the Chemainus First Nation leaders and community," said Chemainus First Nation Councillor and Education Coordinator Charlotte Elliott. "A properly designed and equipped secondary school will assist us in accelerating the vision of providing for our next generation."
The Government of Canada is taking action to improve the lives of First Nations and investing in educational facilities that will provide lasting, sustainable benefits to First Nation communities.
Project costs will be identified following the competitive tendering process.
Backgrounder - Stu"ate Lelum Secondary School
For more information, please contact:
Minister's Office
Nina Chiarelli
Canada Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Chuck Strahl
(819) 997-0002
Media Relations
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
819-953-1160
