23 November 2010
Truro, Nova Scotia
The Native Council of Nova Scotia (NCNS) is working to build new economic development opportunities for Aboriginal people living off-reserve in Nova Scotia, thanks to an investment by the Government of Canada.
"Our government's investment of $90,000 will help the NCNS build its long-term capacity and overall productivity," said the Honourable Keith Ashfield Minister of National Revenue, Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, and Minister for the Atlantic Gateway. "Through this investment, the NCNS will be better equipped to forge long-lasting, far-reaching relationships and create new opportunity for Nova Scotia's Aboriginal people,"
"Our Government is proud to work with the NCNS to improve economic opportunities for Aboriginal people living off reserve in the province. By putting more effort and resources into economic development programs, we can create more jobs and increase self-reliance," said the Honourable John Duncan, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians.
The NCNS was established in 1974 to represent the interests of all Aboriginal people living off-reserve. It offers training, student services, business support, and other programs with the goal of improving the lives of all Aboriginal people. Through this investment, the NCNS will undertake ISO certification for its newly-established Native Council Economic Development Agency and identify and develop new business development opportunities. "These efforts will work to ensure that we can reach our goal of improving the social and economic conditions of our community," said Chief Grace Conrad. "Everyone has something to give, share and leave for our future generations--now we can ensure they are brought together."
FOR BROADCAST USE:
The Government of Canada has invested $90,000 in the Native Council of Nova Scotia. ACOA Minister Keith Ashfield and Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians Minister John Duncan announced the funding today which will allow the group to enhance awareness of its programs and services within the Aboriginal community living off-reserve in Nova Scotia, as well as cultivate mutually beneficial partnerships with economic development groups throughout the province.
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INFORMATION:
Christopher
Brooks Senior Communications Officer
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
902-426-4790/902-789-5184 (cell)
Email : Chris.Brooks@acoa-apeca.gc.ca
Media Relations
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
902-819-953-1160
Reg Hurst
Economic Development Officer
Native Council Novas Scotia
902 843 3720 / 902 986 1697 (cell)
Email: ncnsedo@eastlink.ca
