Mashteuiatsh, Quebec (September 4, 2013) - The Honourable Bernard Valcourt, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, and Gilbert Dominique, Chief of the Pekuakamiulnuatsh of Mashteuiatsh, today announced upgrades to Ouiatchouan Street in Mashteuiatsh.
The Harper Government remains focused on economic growth through important investments to much needed local infrastructure. Investments in the Ouiatchouan Street sewer and water mains will make local business more accessible and the community safer,
said Minister Valcourt. Our Government recognizes the benefits of working with our First Nation partners to strengthen economic development and invests in local infrastructure so community members can have the same improved quality of life as all Canadians.
I am proud of my Government's contribution to this project, which will improve the quality of life for members of the Mashteuiatsh community,
said the Honourable Denis Lebel, MP for Roberval–Lac-Saint-Jean, and Minister of Infrastructure, Communities and Intergovernmental Affairs and Minister of the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec. We will continue to contribute to the update of community infrastructure in order to ensure the security and prosperity of all Aboriginal communities across the country.
Upgrading the northern section of Ouiatchouan Street was an absolutely essential component of our infrastructure modernization,
said Chief Gilbert Dominique. People have been very patient and cooperative over the two years that this major project, now nearing completion, will have taken. The result promises to be highly satisfactory and will ensure greater safety for users, be they residents, pedestrians, cyclists or drivers, while allowing for installation of new water supply and sewer systems to serve the houses on this section of the main street.
Ouiatchouan Street is an integral component of local infrastructure and economic growth, providing necessary access to the community and opportunities for tourism. Reconstruction of pavement and the installation of new, safe sidewalks on a 1.26‑kilometre stretch of road will benefit all members of, and visitors to the community. New infrastructure in the form of water mains and sanitary sewers will also be installed.
To learn more about the Mashteuiatsh community please visit the community profile on the AANDC website.
Erica Meekes
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Bernard Valcourt
819-997-0002
Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada
(819) 953-1160
