Saint John's, Newfoundland and Labrador (September 28, 2009) - The Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Minister responsible for Newfoundland and Labrador, on behalf of the Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians, today congratulated the Sheshatshiu Innu First Nation on the ground breaking of Phase I of its new wastewater treatment facility for the community located 40 kilometres from the town of Happy Valley-Goose Bay, NL.

“Investing in reliable water and wastewater facilities is fundamental for healthy and strong First Nation communities," said Minister MacKay. "Our Government believes this new wastewater treatment system is another example of action taken and real progress made to improve the quality of life for First Nations in Newfoundland and Labrador.”

Phase I of the two-phase project involves the installation and upgrading of collection lines to the wastewater collection system. Phase II will begin in 2010, with the construction of the wastewater treatment plant. The Government’s contribution of $7.7 million to the Sheshatshiu Innu First Nation Wastewater Treatment Plant was drawn from the $165 million investment for 18 water and wastewater projects for First Nation communities identified in Canada's Economic Action Plan .

“We are very pleased to see this important project become a reality,” said Chief Anastasia Qupee, Sheshatshiu Innu First Nation. "This initiative will help ensure the health of our members and the well-being of our community. We appreciate the efforts of Minister Strahl in recognizing this project as a priority."

The Government of Canada is investing in projects that will provide lasting, sustainable benefits for First Nation communities. The government has made solid progress in improving water conditions on reserves across the country. For example, in 2006, there were 193 high risk systems. Today, this number has been significantly reduced to 48 systems. In addition, 21 communities were identified as priorities, which meant that the community had both a high-risk drinking water system and a drinking water advisory. Today, only four communities remain on that list.