Ottawa (June 17, 2009) - The Honourable Vic Toews, President of the Treasury Board and Member of Parliament for Provencher, on behalf of Chuck Strahl, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians, today announced a $3 million contribution to Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation (NCN) to help it partner in a hydroelectric project within the First Nations traditional territory in northern Manitoba.
"Through investments like these, the Government of Canada is helping Aboriginal communities take advantage of key economic opportunities in their regions," said Minister Toews. "These developments will not only have tangible and lasting benefits for Aboriginal community members but will also contribute to a stronger economy for Manitobans and all Canadians."
The contribution from Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC) will enable Taskinigahp Power Corporation (owned by NCN) to purchase an equity share in the Wuskwatim hydroelectric generating station at Takinigahp Falls in northern Manitoba. The Wuskwatim Generating Station is being developed by Wuskwatim Power Limited Partnership, a legal entity involving Manitoba Hydro and NCN.
“This $3 million in funding from INAC is welcomed and much appreciated," said NCN Chief Jim Moore. "It gives support at a critical time and gives momentum to NCN’s efforts to secure the financial resources needed to own a 33 per cent share of the Wuskwatim project. Ultimately, it’s an investment towards our long-term goals of independence, prosperity and providing a standard-of-living for our citizens that most other Canadians already enjoy."
NCN has matched the Government of Canada's contribution and plans to secure 33 per cent ownership in the project by 2012, when the station becomes operational. In addition to the training, employment and contracting opportunities that will result from the construction of the 200-megawatt station, NCN will benefit from sustained project revenues that can be reinvested in the community.
Support for this opportunity was provided under INAC’s Aboriginal Business Development Program which assists First Nation, Métis, and Inuit businesses in all parts of Canada.
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
