No. H022/11
For release - March 14, 2011
OTTAWA — Parliamentary Secretary Brian Jean, on behalf of the Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, today announced that agreements to expand the Port of Prince Rupert in British Columbia have been reached with the Kitselas First Nation and the Kitsumkalum First Nation.
“Our government is pleased to make this announcement in support of these First Nations, while assisting in the development of the Asia-Pacific Gateway and Corridor, and expansion of the Port of Prince Rupert,” said Mr. Jean. “These agreements will add to the overall economic stability of the region and ensure the First Nations communities benefit from economic development opportunities.”
These agreements are in addition to an agreement reached with two First Nations groups in Prince Rupert, the Lax Kw’alaams Indian Band and the Metlakatla Indian Band, known together as the Coast Tsimshian.
“I am pleased to see these agreements in place, as they affirm our government’s commitment to creating sustainable communities,” said Minister Strahl. “The Government of Canada wishes to express its gratitude to Mr. Douglas Eyford, Canada’s Chief Negotiator. Mr. Eyford’s tireless efforts, along with his vision and professionalism, have brought a fair and balanced agreement for these First Nations and for all Canadians.”
The Government of Canada invested $30 million in the construction of Phase 1 of the new Port of Prince Rupert container terminal and is investing a further $28 million to establish a state-of-the-art container-screening program to help ensure secure and efficient border services for the terminal.
To learn more about Canada’s Economic Action Plan, visit www.actionplan.gc.ca.
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