OTTAWA, ONTARIO (March 27, 2013) - The Honourable Bernard Valcourt, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, issued the following statement today:
It is an honour to recognize the success of the Business Ready Investment Development Gateway program (BRIDG). The program has been an investment not just in Aboriginal communities, but in Canada's future.
BRIDG is built on the principles of partnership and entrepreneurship, and it has helped to foster an appreciation for the value of business planning and sound management. Applied more widely, these principles will help First Nations to grow through economic development, contributing to wealth creation and leading to more self-sufficient and prosperous communities.
I applaud all those involved in the BRIDG project and acknowledge in particular those communities that have benefited from this program. Their vision and commitment will contribute to the long-term prosperity of their, and other, Aboriginal communities, and, of course, to Canada. Our Government is a proud partner in BRIDG, and it is exciting to see how it has evolved since 2009, when it was launched as a pilot project.
I extend congratulations to all those who have been leaders in making this happen.
Jan O'Driscoll
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Bernard Valcourt
819-997-0002
Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada
819-953-1160
