AHOUSAHT, BRITISH COLUMBIA (September 15, 2011) – James Lunney, Member of Parliament for Nanaimo–Alberni (British Columbia), on behalf of the Honourable John Duncan, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, today congratulated the Ahousaht First Nation on the opening of the Maaqtusiis School. This project was made possible through an investment under Canada's Economic Action Plan (CEAP).
"Our government is pleased to have partnered with the Ahousaht First Nation to help make this project a reality," said MP James Lunney. "Maaqtusiis School is a positive step forward to ensure Ahousaht First Nation students have access to the same educational opportunities as students elsewhere in Canada."
The community received $9 million through Canada's Economic Action Plan and $3.8 million through Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada's Capital Facilities and Maintenance Program for the construction of the new school. The new school will serve students in grades 8 to 12 and includes four teacherages and 11 classrooms. The school's curriculum will emphasize First Nation culture.
The Government of Canada is taking action to improve the lives of First Nations and stimulate economic growth in First Nation communities through targeted infrastructure investments. Investments in school infrastructure projects will help ensure First Nation students have a strong and productive educational experience, which starts with access to quality infrastructure that is conducive to learning.
In the last two years, the Government of Canada has provided over $173 million across the country to build new and renovate existing First Nation schools under Canada's Economic Action Plan. This is in addition to the Government of Canada's annual investments of approximately $200 million to support school infrastructure projects and the operation and maintenance of existing facilities in First Nation communities.
The school is located on Marktosis Indian Reserve No. 15, one of the principal settlements of Ahousaht First Nation. The Ahousaht First Nation community is located on Flores Island in British Columbia and is a member of the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council. The First Nation has approximately 1,980 members.
Moira Wolstenholme
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable John Duncan
819-997-0002
Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada
819-953-1160
