Ottawa, Ontario (November 27, 2008) - The Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians, today announced the re-appointment of Ms. Dawn Madahbee of Birch Island (Ontario) to the National Aboriginal Economic Development Board (NAEDB) for three years, effective immediately. She has been a member of the Board since September 2002.

"Ms. Madahbee is an experienced individual who is greatly involved in her community, and has been a driving force for economic development in northern Ontario," said Minister Strahl. "She brings a wealth of experience to the Board, and I look forward to the contributions she will continue to make towards the Board’s work."

In the coming year, the NAEDB will play a key role as the federal government works with Aboriginal groups and other stakeholders in developing a new federal framework for Aboriginal Economic Development. The Board will provide advice on how the Government and Aboriginal businesses and communities can work together more effectively to increase Aboriginal participation in the Canadian economy, including Canada’s labour market.

Mandated by Cabinet, the NAEDB acts as a link between policy makers, legislators, federal departments, and Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal business and community leaders, and provides advice on all Aboriginal economic development matters. The members are appointed by Order-in-Council and are representative of all regions and include members from all Aboriginal heritage groups in Canada.