Ref. #2-3282
HOBBEMA, ALBERTA (October 22, 2009) - Member of Parliament for Wetaskiwin, Blaine Calkins, on behalf of the Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians, today congratulated the Samson Cree Nation on the grand opening of its latest economic development venture, Cree Star Transport Ltd.
"This is an example of how our Government is helping First Nations take advantage of economic development opportunities that create jobs and keep our economy growing," said Mr. Calkins.
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada provided $415,000 to the Samson Cree Nation to help launch the new transportation company, which will generate new revenue for the First Nation as well as create new jobs for both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal workers.
The Samson Cree Nation launched the new company at a grand opening ceremony today at Samson Oil and Gas Inc. headquarters in Hobbema, Alberta.
"Through ventures of this nature, we are helping to build bridges between our communities and to demonstrate that positive outcomes can be achieved for Aboriginal people,” said Samson Cree Nation Chief Marvin Yellowbird.
Cree Star Transport Ltd. is an Alberta incorporated company that is 100 per cent owned by the Samson Cree Nation. The new company will provide freight and gravel hauling services for the regional market.
The Government's support of this project is in keeping with its new Federal Framework for Aboriginal Economic Development, which aims to increase Aboriginal economic development opportunities by strengthening Aboriginal entrepreneurship and forging new and effective partnerships.
