Eel River Bar, New Brunswick (March 13, 2013) - The Honourable Bernard Valcourt, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, today announced investments in Eel River Bar First Nation that will contribute to repairing damage from a December 2010 storm, and protect the community from future storms.
This investment demonstrates our Government's commitment to improving living conditions on reserve for First Nations,
said Minister Valcourt. Not only will it help to address the damages left by the previous storm, it will help protect the community from future storms, making Eel River Bar a safer, more secure place to live, work, and raise a family.
Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada (AANDC) provided funding to the First Nation to support repairs to homes, roads and other infrastructure that were washed out by the storm surge. An improved seawall has been built along the east side of the community and additional work is being completed to upgrade the storm sewer system. Work on this phase should be completed by March 31, 2013.
On behalf of the Eel River Bar First Nation community and council it is an honour to have Minister Valcourt in our community. We congratulate Minister Valcourt on his appointment and look forward to our continued positive relationship with Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development,
said Chief Thomas Everett Martin of Eel River Bar. Over the past several years in particular, Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada has been a strong partner and advocate in responding to Eel River Bar First Nation growth and storm response initiatives.
For this we are extremely grateful,
he said. By working together, we will continue to build a strong and prosperous Eel River Bar First Nation which will directly benefit the region, the Province and Canada.
Today's announcement of $2.3 million in funding is over and above the $7.4 million already invested in the community over the previous two years.
The Harper Government remains focused on four priorities, as outlined by the Prime Minister, that Canadians care most about: their families, the safety of our streets and communities, their pride in being a citizen of this country, and of course, their personal financial security.
Eel River Bar First Nation is located near Dalhousie, New Brunswick. The community has 686 members, with an on-reserve population of approximately 343 members.
For more information on AANDC's role during emergencies, see - How AANDC Supports First Nation Communities During Emergencies
Jan O'Driscoll
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Bernard Valcourt
819-997-0002
Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada
819-953-1160
