MOOSE DEER POINT FIRST NATION, ONTARIO (October 5, 2009) - The Honourable Tony Clement, MP for Parry Sound-Muskoka, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for FedNor, 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 Moose Deer Point First Nation on a significant step towards building a new water treatment plant.

"This new water treatment plant will provide essential water services, ensuring the health and safety of residents in the community," said Minister Clement. "Our Government is committed to providing access to strong and viable on-reserve water infrastructure for First Nation communities, and stimulating economic growth through targeted infrastructure investments like the one at Moose Deer Point."

The Moose Deer Point First Nation has awarded a $20 million contract to Leo Alarie and Sons Ltd., a subsidiary of Aecon, to begin construction on a new water treatment plant for the community.

The Government of Canada provided Moose Deer Point First Nation with $20 million in funding through the $1.4 billion investment for Aboriginal peoples under Canada's Economic Action Plan. Project work will include the construction of a new water treatment plant, as well as repairs to current infrastructure. The water treatment plant, elevated reservoir, and distribution system will connect three parcels of land which are separated by a wildlife nature reserve, providing safe, potable water to residents. Construction will be complete by spring 2011. The Moose Deer Point First Nation is located approximately 30 kilometres south of Parry Sound, Ontario.

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.

Canada’s Economic Action Plan