Ref. #2-3491
BELLA COOLA, BRITISH COLUMBIA (May 26, 2011) – The Honourable John Duncan, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, congratulated the Nuxalk Nation on the completion of major renovations to the Acwsalcta School. This project was made possible through an investment of $8.4 million under Canada's Economic Action Plan (CEAP).
"Our government is committed to working with First Nations to ensure their young people have access to education facilities that provide an environment where they can receive a quality education," said Minister Duncan. "Investments such as these lead to better outcomes for Aboriginal children that, in turn, lead to future success and an improved quality of life."
The project, which began construction in March 2010, includes the addition of classroom space, as well as seismic, fire suppression and general building improvements. The Nuxalk Nation also contributed $470,000 to augment the size of the gym and include a kitchen and bleachers to increase the school's utility to the community.
The Acwsalcta School is located near Bella Coola on the central coast of British Columbia. The school was originally constructed in 1987 and provides education from Kindergarten to Grade 12 for students of the First Nation community of Nuxalk.
The Government of Canada is taking action to improve First Nation living conditions and stimulate economic growth in First Nation communities through targeted infrastructure investments, including investments in school infrastructure. The government has provided over $173 million across the country in the last two years to build new schools and renovate existing schools under CEAP. These federal funds are adding new classrooms and improving facilities to ensure that school infrastructure can meet future needs.
Minister's Office
Michele-Jamali Paquette
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable John Duncan
819-997-0002
Media Relations
819-953-1160
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Description: News releases and speeches on current and historical matters relevant to Aboriginal people and Northerners.
