Winnipeg, Manitoba (September 3, 2009) - Opaskwayak Cree Nation (OCN) celebrated the beginning of construction of a new high school today, thanks to the Government of Canada's Economic Action Plan.
The Honourable Vic Toews, President of the Treasury Board, on behalf of the Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians, today made the announcement about the ground breaking for the new school.
“Our Government is proud to invest in the building of this school,” said Minister Toews. “It is through education that the children of OCN will develop the skills needed to thrive in the workforce and in their communities as leaders.”
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada is contributing $22.4 million to the construction of the new school, which will have 17 classrooms and capacity for up to 431 grade 7-12 students on-reserve. The school will have additional resources, including a multi-purpose room, library resource centre, and science and computer rooms. OCN is located near The Pas and has an on-reserve population of over 3,000 people.
“This new school will open up a lot of space and create a better learning environment for the students,” said Chief Glen Ross. “Opaskwayak Cree Nation needs our kids to keep moving forward so that they can look after the community in the future. What it really boils down to is our young people being able to look after themselves, being independent, and paving their way.”
This project is 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 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.
For more 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
