March 19, 2014 - Port Alberni, BC - Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada
Minister Valcourt, Chief Hugh Braker of the Tseshaht First Nation, James Lunney, Member of Parliament for Nanaimo-Alberni, with partners and guests in front of the doors to the Tsheshaht Market. Investments in this infrastructure project will enable future commercial retail and recreational activities in the area of the Market.
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The Government of Canada is committed to investing in infrastructure projects that ensure First Nations have the same access to safe water and waste water facilities in their communities, as all Canadians. The government will support a 3.3 km sewer extension on the Tseshaht First Nation Reserve that will provide service to the Westlands location of the Tseshaht Market and future development potential of commercial and recreational facilities.
The sewer extension opens up community economic growth opportunities for the First Nation such as employment and potential for new businesses. In addition, the sewer extension will provide much needed servicing to the current and future commercial and recreational facilities on Tseshaht First Nation land.
Contributions towards this project include $1.46 million from the Government of Canada, as well as $756,000 from the Tseshaht First Nation. This investment builds on the Government of Canada’s action to support a comprehensive plan that will improve drinking water and wastewater systems on First Nation lands. This is a long-term plan founded on four pillars: enhanced capacity building and operator training; enforceable standards and protocols; infrastructure investments; and protection of public health.
Erica Meekes
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development
819-997-0002
Media Relations
Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada
819-953-1160
