Ref. #2-3631
OTTAWA, ONTARIO (February 23, 2012) — The Honourable John Duncan, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, announced today that all 22 of the modular homes purchased with funds provided by the Government of Canada for affected residents in Attawapiskat First Nation have been delivered to the community.
“The arrival of these modular homes demonstrates our Government’s commitment to the residents of Attawapiskat First Nation,” said Minister Duncan.
In December 2011 Minister Duncan announced funding for the purchase of 22 modular homes to address the urgent health and safety needs of affected residents.
Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada is providing more than $2.5 million for the manufacture and transportation of the homes to Attawapiskat First Nation and for work needed to prepare the modular homes for occupancy.
The homes will be ready for families to move in once the First Nation completes the necessary foundation work and installation of the modular homes on lots; electrical, sewer and water hookups are completed; and inspections are performed. Until this time, all affected residents have access to the Healing Lodge, which was retrofitted in December in partnership with the Canadian Red Cross, to provide safe, warm and dry shelter.
Our Government is committed to working collaboratively with partners to support strong and sustainable First Nation communities.
Attawapiskat First Nation is located on James Bay, approximately 220 kilometres north of Moosonee, Ontario, and has an on-reserve population of approximately 1,865 people.
Minister's Office
Jan O'Driscoll
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable John Duncan
819-997-0002
Media Relations
Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada
819-953-1160
