Ottawa, Ontario (April 17, 2009) - Members of the Wabaseemoong and the North Spirit Lake First Nations will benefit from new schools, thanks to the Government of Canada's Economic Action Plan.
Greg Rickford, Member of Parliament for Kenora, made the announcement on behalf of the Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians.
"Facilities like this will help First Nation students obtain the skills and knowledge they need to grow, flourish and contribute to strong, healthy communities," said MP Greg Rickford.
These projects are part of the $200 million for new schools and major renovations included in the $1.4 billion investment for Aboriginal peoples under Canada's Economic Action Plan.
The Mizhakiiwetung Memorial School for the Wabaseemoong First Nation will be a new Kindergarten to Grade 12 facility to accommodate 460 students. Construction will begin in 2009-2010, and is expected to be complete in 2010-2011. The Wabaseemoong First Nation is located 95 kilometres northwest of Kenora, Ontario.
"The new facility will improve the educational outcomes and well being of Aboriginal students so that they excel and achieve in every aspect of their education," said Eric Fisher, Chief of Wabaseemoong.
The Department will also invest in the construction of a new school in the North Spirit Lake First Nation. Construction will begin in 2009-2010, and is expected to be complete in 2010-2011. The Kindergarten to Grade Nine facility will accommodate 90 students. The First Nation is located in northwestern Ontario.
"The youth of the North Spirit Lake community deserve to learn in school buildings that reflect the importance and quality of their education," stated Chief Rita Thompson. "The new school will provide the platform for enriching their chances to reach their full potential," she continued.
The Government of Canada is taking action to improve the lives of First Nations and stimulate economic growth in First Nation communities through targeted infrastructure investments. Investments in school infrastructure projects will help ensure First Nation students have a strong and productive educational experience, which starts with access to quality infrastructure that is conducive to learning.
Project costs will be identified following the competitive tendering process.
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
