Winnipeg, Manitoba (November 19, 2013) - The Honourable Bernard Valcourt, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, today announced support for Long Plain First Nation's urban reserve in Winnipeg.
"Our Government is committed to improving the lives of Aboriginal people," said Minister Valcourt. "We are pleased to support Long Plain First Nation, as they continue to work to develop this urban reserve into a business district, bringing economic benefits to the First Nation and the surrounding area".
"Long Plain First Nation is pleased to announce that we have today secured the necessary financing to move this important economic project forward to reality," said Chief Dennis Meeches of Long Plain First Nation. "We thank Minister Valcourt and the Government of Canada for their support in the development of Winnipeg's first urban reserve. This is an important milestone for Long Plain and we will witness more to come".
As announced in May 2013, the urban reserve is home to Yellowquill College and the First Nation's plans include development of an 80,000-square-foot office building, a gas station, a convenience store and other facilities.
The Government of Canada is dedicated to helping provide greater opportunities for Aboriginal entrepreneurs and to helping Aboriginal business owners succeed. To this end, Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada is contributing $185,400 through its Community Economic Opportunities Program for economic infrastructure such as parking, water and waste services, so that the First Nation can proceed with furthering the developments for the urban reserve near the Polo Park shopping complex.
Erica Meekes
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Bernard Valcourt
819-997-0002
Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada
819-953-1160
Chief Dennis Meeches
204-871-7676
