February 12, 2015 – Ottawa, ON – Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada
The Honourable Bernard Valcourt, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, announced today the completion of major renovations at the Simon P. Ottawa elementary school in Manawan and the Niska elementary school in Opitciwan. The work will provide Atikamekw students with a healthy and safe learning environment.
The Government of Canada continues to take concrete steps to create the conditions for more prosperous, self-sufficient First Nation communities. Investing in First Nations elementary and secondary students, and jobs and skills training for youth will lead to their greater participation in the economy, healthier First Nation communities, and a stronger Canada.
The Government of Canada firmly believes First Nations students deserve a quality education, like every other Canadian. That is why our Government has invested almost $1.4 million to improve the Simon P. Ottawa school infrastructure and $1.2 million for the Niska school infrastructure.
In 2014–2015, our Government invested $33.8 million in Quebec on-reserve infrastructure projects. Of this amount, over $5.5 million was spent on schools. We continue to invest in infrastructure projects in order to increase the number of jobs as well as participation from all regions to Canada's economy.
Emily Hillstrom
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
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