KASHECHEWAN, ONTARIO (April 8, 2013) – Today the Honourable Bernard Valcourt, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, announced the Harper Government will invest in two important infrastructure improvement projects at Kashechewan First Nation.
The Government has committed funding to support a study of flood-mitigation options on the Albany River to better protect the community, in addition to funding for the partial replacement of the roof of the Francine J. Wesley Secondary School on reserve.
Our Government continues to take concrete steps to improve living conditions on reserve for Canada's First Nations,
said Minister Valcourt. I am pleased to announce these investments, which reflect our ability to work closely with First Nations toward common goals, because they will help to increase the safety and security of the community, and contribute to a better learning environment for the community's students.
Project costs will be finalized once the competitive tendering processes have been completed. The Kashechewan First Nation will be responsible for managing all aspects of these projects including administration.
These investments are important additions to the safety and well-being of our community's residents,
Kashechewan First Nation Chief Derek Stephen said. Providing the community with increased protection against spring flooding, and students with a learning environment lasting many years into the future will help provide us with a more secure future.
Our 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,
concluded Minister Valcourt.
Kashechewan First Nation is located on the north shore of the Albany River approximately 450 kilometres north of Timmins, Ontario, and has an on-reserve population of approximately 1,500 residents.
Jan O'Driscoll
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Bernard Valcourt
819-997-0002
Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada
819-953-1160
