Ref. #2-3697
WAGMATCOOK, NOVA SCOTIA (August 15, 2012) – The Honourable John Duncan, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, today joined Chief Norman Bernard of the Wagmatcook Band for the grand opening of its new wastewater treatment plant and the completion of upgrades to the existing sewage treatment lagoon.
"Our Government is committed to taking concrete steps to improve the living conditions for First Nations through investments in safe water and wastewater treatment facilities," said Minister Duncan. "Wagmatcook's new wastewater facility is an important investment in the health and safety of community members."
These projects were made possible through an investment of $6.3 million under Canada's Economic Action Plan and include the construction of a new extended activated sludge system to replace the existing stabilization pond serving the north side of the reserve.
"I would like to thank the Government of Canada for providing the financial resources to complete this strategic capital investment in Wagmatcook," said Chief Bernard. "We are pleased Minister Duncan has come to Wagmatcook to share with us the importance this investment is to our future housing and economic development plans."
The Harper Government is taking action to improve the lives of First Nations and stimulate economic growth in First Nation communities through targeted infrastructure investments. Between 2006 and 2014, the Harper Government will invest approximately $3 billion in water and wastewater facilities in First Nations communities.
Wagmatcook Band is located on Cape Breton Island, 51.2 kilometers west of Sydney, Nova Scotia. The community has 761 members, with an on-reserve population of 587.
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
Wagmatook Band
Brian Arbuthnot
Director of Operations
902-295-2598 (tel.)
902-497-5950 (cell.)
