This report is the third in a series of updates providing a comprehensive overview of initiatives for Aboriginal people and communities under Canada's Economic Action Plan. This report complements the Government of Canada's Fourth Report to Canadians, released December 2, 2009. The Department of Indian and Northern Affairs Canada would like to acknowledge the numerous federal departments and agencies contributing to these reports and their commitment to enhancing the lives of Aboriginal men, women, children, and youth across Canada.

On January 27, 2009, the Government of Canada released its Economic Action Plan in response to the deteriorating global economic situation. The plan was designed to stimulate the Canadian economy; to protect Canadians during the global recession; and, to invest in long-term growth.

Canada's Economic Action Plan is protecting Canadian jobs and incomes by delivering a $62 billion shot in the arm to the economy. The Economic Action Plan is:

• Reducing the Tax Burden for Canadians
• Helping the Unemployed
• Building Infrastructure to Create Jobs
• Creating the Economy of Tomorrow
• Supporting Industries and Communities
• Improving Access to Financing and Strengthening Canada's Financial System

The Government has identified a number of investments designed to meet current challenges. Underlying all of the investments are three key principles: that the stimulus be timely, targeted, and temporary. Perhaps the most fundamental message underlying the Plan is the need for immediate action. 

Every effort is being taken to deliver these investments expeditiously while maintaining an appropriate level of oversight and accountability. This approach, and the progress achieved to date, has already been highlighted for Canadians through four progress Reports to Canadians released on March 10, June 11, September 28, and December 2 of this year. Canadians can monitor the progress of the Plan on the Government's website, Canada's Economic Action Plan  .

Leading up to Canada's Economic Action Plan, the Prime Minister met with First Ministers on January 16, 2009 to work together on a number of important actions to provide stimulus to the Canadian economy. The Prime Minister, Minister Chuck Strahl, and First Ministers also met with Aboriginal leaders on January 15, 2009 wherein they agreed to:

• Take quick action to ensure the Aboriginal labour force is well prepared for the future with skills training and support; and
• Identify ways Aboriginal people can benefit from infrastructure projects, by way of employment, skills upgrading, and business opportunities.

The Prime Minister's commitment to promote greater participation by Aboriginal men and women in the Canadian economy and to address the specific challenges and opportunities they face are well-reflected in Canada's Economic Action Plan. More precisely, the Plan announced $1.4 billion in investments over two years related to Aboriginal-specific programming in areas such as skills and training, health, child and family services, housing, educational facilities, and water and wastewater systems (see Annex 1).

In addition, there are many other initiatives in the Plan that may also provide benefits to First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people and their communities, although not necessarily designated specifically for Aboriginal people. In this report, effort has been taken to also highlight these initiatives.

Aboriginal Skills and Employment Partnership

The Aboriginal Skills and Employment Partnership (ASEP) is a nationally-managed program geared to providing Aboriginal people with the skills and training they need to participate in economic opportunities across Canada.

ASEP helps to develop the skills of the Aboriginal workforce, maximize sustainable employment for Aboriginal people on major projects and provide lasting benefits for Aboriginal communities, families, and individuals. This initiative fosters partnerships between Aboriginal organizations, the private sector, provincial and territorial governments and others as appropriate to create training and employment opportunities. Through Canada's Economic Action Plan, the Government of Canada is investing an additional $100 million over three years for ASEP projects. Ten projects have been approved, seven of which are underway, and up to nine additional projects are being developed. For more information on this program, please visit: Human Resources and Skills Development Canada  .

The following projects represent some of the activities being undertaken through ASEP investments:

• In Saskatchewan, The Bridges and Foundations for Aboriginal Development project commenced in May 2009 to support major economic opportunities in the residential construction industry both within Saskatoon and its surrounding communities. A partnership between stakeholders in the construction industry, the provincial government, Aboriginal organizations, and the federal government, this project was created to maximize Aboriginal employment in the residential construction industry. The Bridges and Foundations for Aboriginal Development, project has already begun to see the success of their project by placing clients in long term, sustainable jobs.

• In the Northwest Territories, Our Resources, Our People commenced in July 2009, to oversee the implementation and management of a comprehensive Training-to-Employment Plan to prepare Dehcho First Nations individuals for employment opportunities created through construction, and petroleum exploration and production. The project partnership is currently planning for a graduation ceremony to be held in December 2009 for the first group of Aboriginal participants to complete their training.

• In British Columbia, the BC Aboriginal Mine Training Association project was initiated in October 2009. The partnership includes Aboriginal organizations, government agencies, educational institutions, and industry. The partnership has begun to coordinate its plans to prepare Aboriginal people for sustainable employment, retention, and advancement in British Columbia's mineral exploration and mining sectors.

• The Labrador Aboriginal Training Partnership oversees the implementation and management of a comprehensive multi-year plan to prepare Innu, Inuit and Métis residents of Labrador for guaranteed employment opportunities created through the Nalcor Energy hydroelectric construction at the Lower Churchill Project site and spin-off economic opportunities. This project commenced in October 2009.

• In Nova Scotia, a project called Seven Generations commenced in October 2009 to oversee the implementation and management of a comprehensive Aboriginal training-to-employment Plan. This initiative is preparing Aboriginal people for sustainable jobs in the hospitality and construction sectors in Nova Scotia.

Housing and Skills Training for Mosquito First Nation Residents

In October 2009, representatives from the Mosquito First Nation and the Bridges and Foundations Career Development Corporation gathered to formally kick off the construction phase of an eight-unit multiplex housing facility in the community.  Eight First Nations members have been trained to work on the facility through a project initiated by Human Resources and Skills Development Canada's ASEP Program (Aboriginal Sills and Employment Partnership). The project also received funding from the Saskatoon Home Builders, who will be providing apprenticeship opportunities for these eight individuals in the first year of the carpentry course.  In addition to this project, a number of other renovations have been done on houses in the area from Canada's Economic Action Plan funding.  Mosquito First Nation members are saying they are excited about the facility, “It increases our housing up here,” said Milton Exebin, land manager for Mosquito First Nation. “We can get maybe single unit families living in there and free up some of the big houses for family units.”

Photo cutline:
Representatives from the Bridges and Foundations Career Development Corporation were on hand to help Mosquito First Nation put shoves in the ground for  the construction phase of an eight-unit housing project. 
(source: John Cairns, The News-Optimist, October 21, 2009)

Aboriginal Skills & Training Strategic Investment Fund

The Aboriginal Skills and Training Strategic Investment Fund (ASTSIF) of $75 million over two years, will strengthen opportunities for employment partnerships and target training for Aboriginal Canadians. Through this program, support is being provided to short-term initiatives designed to help Aboriginal Canadians to receive the specific training they require to benefit from current employment opportunities, including those generated by Canada's Economic Action Plan.

The application process for this fund was launched in May 2009 and proposals were received over the summer. There are three types of projects: training-to-employment projects, short-term skills development projects, and service improvement projects. The Fund will support over 80 projects, of which more than 70 have been approved. More than 50 of these projects have begun.

For example:

• The Centre for Aboriginal Human Resource Development in partnership with the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network will provide specialized training and employment for a minimum of 24 Aboriginal individuals in broadcasting and broadcast-related jobs at the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Games. In addition to (and in preparation for) the training and placements, additional activities will be undertaken to enrich Aboriginal languages across Canada and to encourage literacy in traditional languages among Aboriginal youth. Translators and linguists will work with communities throughout Canada to develop and introduce a modern context and sports-related lexicon to Aboriginal languages. This will be the first time an international sporting event of this magnitude will be broadcast to Aboriginal communities throughout Canada in a variety of Aboriginal languages. It is expected that this project will be initiated in December 2009.

• The Bigstone Cree Nation Education Authority will develop and test an integrated youth toolkit of innovative assessment and skill development programs that can be used by Aboriginal communities to reach multi-barriered, disengaged and unemployed youth and young adults (aged 15-30).  Six Aboriginal communities (including Opaskwaysak Cree Nation, Manitoba; Bigstone Cree Nation, Alberta; Native learning centre, Toronto, and St. Mary's First Nation, New Brunswick) will increase their capacity to meet the needs of multi-barriered youth in their community through participation in the pilot project. Between 120 and 150 youth will engage in the program. It is expected that 75 percent of participants in the program will complete a detailed career path plan to guide next steps in securing employment or further training. The toolkit and on-line portal will be available for distribution/promotion to Aboriginal organizations across Canada.

• The Métis National Council will partner with the Canadian Council on Rehabilitation and Work (CCRW) to improve client and business services for Métis persons with disabilities across Canada. They will develop partnerships and leverage existing disability-related skills development and employment resources, while also creating new customized tools for the provision of client-centered services for Métis persons with disabilities. The project will also create a national knowledge exchange and coordination of promising practices, tools, and resources for service delivery to persons with disabilities.

• The Whiteduck Resources Inc. project will develop and test a learning and development model which will enable women, in particular micro-entrepreneurs, to increase their knowledge of business management, financial management and small business development.  In partnership with the Native Women's Association of Canada, among other groups, this project will build on previous projects that focused primarily on personal financial management, and will reach the rapidly expanding group of Aboriginal women entrepreneurs throughout Canada.

• The Innu Takuaikan Uashat Mak Mani-Utenam will be partnering with numerous local employers, and the Assembly of First Nations of Quebec and Labrador to develop and deliver a multi-sectoral internship model which includes the entire spectrum of potential employment in the community. This is a training-to-employment program intended to help Aboriginal persons who are near-ready to enter the labour market to acquire the essential skills, knowledge, and on-the-job training they require.  It also involves integrating job-ready individuals as quickly and directly as possible into employment in order to meet a pressing need for labour on the North Shore.

Under the Aboriginal Skills and Training Strategic Investment Fund, the Native Women's Association of Canada will partner with their provincial and territorial member associations and the Aboriginal Financial Officer's Association to develop an outreach strategy that will engage Aboriginal women from across Canada in academic and educational activities.

The strategy will test the effectiveness of short-term, highly-targeted certification and accreditation initiatives and will document successes, challenges and best practices. This project will provide opportunities to approximately 200 Aboriginal women in obtaining the credits required toward secondary school equivalency; accreditation and certification in Aboriginal financial management; and accreditation and certification in Aboriginal program management.

Canada's Economic Action Plan also designated $25 million for 2009-10 to maintain the current Aboriginal Human Resource Development Strategy funding until the Aboriginal Skills and Employment Training Strategy (ASETS) is put in place in April 2010.  ASETS will help Aboriginal people receive the training and skills they need, both now and for the long term. This program will focus on three strategic priorities, including supporting demand-driven skills development, fostering partnerships with the private sector and the provinces and territories, and putting emphasis on accountability and results.

---

Investments in First Nations Infrastructure

Canada's Economic Action Plan is providing $515 million over two years, including $260 million in 2009/10, to support First Nations community infrastructure projects in three priority areas: schools ($200 million), water and wastewater projects ($165 million), and critical community services infrastructure, such as health and police services facilities ($150 million). Of the funding for infrastructure in First Nations communities, 97 per cent has been committed for specific 2009/10 initiatives. These investments are sparking job creation on reserve and in remote and rural communities.

First Nations Schools

Funding of $200 million over two years ($75 million in 2009/10) is supporting the on-reserve construction of 12 new schools and major renovation projects [Note 1]. All projects have been announced and 6 are under construction. A total of 10 schools will be under construction by March 2010. 

This initiative contributes to the Government of Canada's commitment to improve on-reserve student retention and graduation rates. Building and renovating schools on reserves provides economic stimulus to communities by generating short-term employment and business opportunities and helps ensure educational facilities meet existing and future educational requirements. Some examples of these school projects include:

• A new kindergarten to grade 8 school, accommodating 120 students, will be constructed in the First Nation community of Burnt Church, New Brunswick consisting of kindergarten classrooms; regular classrooms; a library/resource centre; an auditorium; a computer room; a science room; and administration and common areas. This school is currently under construction. The expected completion date is December 31, 2010.

• Construction has begun on a new kindergarten to grade 12 school to accommodate 314 students in the Wabaseemoong First Nation in Ontario. It is expected that construction of this facility will be complete by March 31, 2011.

• A new kindergarten to grade 12 school will accommodate 340 students in the Birch Narrows First Nation in Saskatchewan. This project is the result of a partnership between the governments of Canada and Saskatchewan and the Birch Narrows First Nation. Construction on this project has already begun, with a sod-turning ceremony having been celebrated on June 2, 2009. The project is expected to be complete by March 2011.

• Construction of a new elementary school located on the isolated Fox Lake reserve of the Little Red River Cree Nation in northern Alberta will accommodate 510 students. It is expected that construction will be completed by March 31, 2011.

Did you know?

Infrastructure investments provide direct benefits, such as an improved water supply, as well as indirect benefits, including opportunities for training and employment in the ongoing operation and maintenance of the new facilities.

First Nations Water and Wastewater Infrastructure

Clean, safe water is a basic requirement for life and is fundamental to healthy and vibrant communities. The water initiative is addressing health and safety priorities in 18 First Nations communities across Canada. It will provide economic stimulus for many First Nations and rural areas through the generation of employment, the development of skilled trades and contracts for local small businesses.

Funding of $165 million over two years, with $75 million in 2009/10, will support 18 water and wastewater projects on reserves, directly benefiting approximately 44,000 First Nations residents. Of the 18 water/wastewater facilities being built, construction has commenced on 9 projects and by March 2010, five more will also be underway. The following list provides some examples of water projects:

• Construction has begun on a new water intake piping system for the community of Natuashish, Labrador which will supply water from a nearby river to a pumping station. This new system will provide a permanent water source for the community and is expected to be in place by January 31, 2011.

• A new mechanical sewage treatment plant is now under construction in the Innu community of Sheshatshiu, Labrador. It is expected that the facility will be complete by December 31, 2010.

• In the First Nation community of Wagmatcook, Nova Scotia, a new sludge system is currently under construction to replace the existing stabilization pond serving the north side of the reserve. The system is expected to be in place by December 31, 2010.

• Water treatment and reservoir capacities will be improved in the Kahnawake First Nation in Quebec to meet health and safety requirements. With construction already underway, it is expected that this project will be complete by November 30, 2010.

• A new sewage lagoon will be constructed in the Black Lake First Nation, Saskatchewan which will allow for the decommissioning of the existing lagoon. Construction on this facility has begun and is expected to be complete by November 30, 2010.

Water and Wastewater for Pinaymootang First Nation, Manitoba

When the new sewage lagoon on Pinaymootang First Nation is completed this year, it will service the majority of the community - approximately 240 homes, as well as the school complex and teacherages.

The lagoon replaces an older system, which was unable to meet the current needs of the First Nation. The previous lagoon is almost 40 years old and was originally built to service only the school. This type of infrastructure project will help to ensure the sustainability and health of the on-reserve community of 1250 over the long term as the lagoon is designed to easily be expanded for additional growth. As of September 30, the lagoon project created 1,260 hours of labour for people in the community.

Through this new infrastructure and the First Nation Water and Wastewater Action Plan, 38 homes in this community will also be hooked up to piped service in the next five months. This project is an additional investment of roughly $1 million.

The improvements to wastewater have been welcomed by the community as proper disposal of wastewater is essential to both the health of the community and the land on which the community lives.

Pinaymootang is located approximately 215km North West of Winnipeg. This $7.2 million lagoon project was funded through Canada's Economic Action Plan.

First Nations Health Infrastructure

Over two years, $135 million will be spent for the construction and renovation of health services infrastructure for First Nations, including health facilities and nurses' residences.  This funding began flowing on April 1, 2009, ensuring that First Nations continue to have access to safe and effective facilities, quality health programs and services, and that their critical health needs are met. 

A total of 36 signed contribution agreements are in place for First Nations health infrastructure projects. Of these, 19 projects are now underway with an additional 7 having gone to tender. Additional projects are expected to go to tender and begin construction by March 2010.  Numerous renovation projects are also advancing to improve existing First Nations health infrastructure. 

The construction of a health centre or a nursing station generally creates approximately 15 jobs, depending upon the size of the facility and the location of the project. Construction to date has seen the employment of a range of personnel including skilled trades people like carpenters, electricians, plumbers, welders, machine and equipment operators as well as trades helpers and labourers. Some examples of First Nation health facility construction projects include:

• A new health centre is being built at Beardy's and Okemasis First Nation, a community located 85 kilometers North of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. The new health center will replace the existing center constructed in 1984. The project is valued at $2.25 million.  Construction is underway and is expected to be substantially complete by January 2010.  

• A new health centre is being built in Lower Post First Nation, located in British Columbia on the Alaska Highway approximately 450 kilometres from Whitehorse and 10 kilometres South of the Yukon border. The project is valued at $2.7 million. Construction began this fall and the centre is expected to be completed for spring 2011. 

• An expansion of the Opitciwan Nursing Station in Quebec is underway. Opitciwan is an Atikamekw community with an on-reserve population of about 2,100 people and is located about 10.5 hours Northeast of Quebec City. The project is valued at $2.5 million and will expand the existing nursing station built in 1986 and last renovated in 1994.  Excavation has been completed and framing has begun. The project is expected to be substantially complete by July 2010.

First Nations Policing Infrastructure

The $15 million allocated for 2009-2010 for the remediation of critical policing infrastructure in First Nations communities will allow for more effective policing, ensuring that First Nations communities are safer and more secure.

Initiatives under Canada's Economic Action Plan for police infrastructure are being cost-shared between the Government of Canada (52%) and provinces (48%). To date, 12 projects have been negotiated between the Government of Canada, the Province of Ontario, and First Nations. Some examples include:

• A police facility in Cat Lake First Nation: the community will receive a pre-fabricated facility which is built off-site and delivered and installed in the community. The cost of this project is just over $1.2 million.

• Renovations to the Wikwemikong First Nation police facilities: the community will receive almost $400,000 to undertake the renovations.

• A new police facility in Six Nations of the Grand River: the community will receive funding to build a new facility on-site. The value of this project is $3 million.

An Improved Rail System

Canada's Economic Action Plan includes $7.9 million to assist the Keewatin Railway in Manitoba and Tshiuetin Rail Transportation in western Labrador and Quebec to provide transportation services to remote communities in an efficient, safe and reliable manner. Funding is provided to these railways through the Regional and Remote Passenger Rail Services Class Contribution Program administered by Transport Canada. Several components of these First Nations rail projects are either completed or in the process of being completed. The projects are expected to be fully complete by March 31, 2010.

A contribution agreement was signed with Tshiuetin Rail Transportation on May 20, 2009. This has allowed the railway to invest in new machinery to mechanize track maintenance and to acquire track materials.

A contribution agreement was signed with Keewatin Railway on May 27, 2009.  This has allowed the railway to advance on the first phase of its project: acquire rail cars, upgrade its track, and construct a new ramp to improve accessibility of its trains for passenger and freight traffic. A new station will also be built at Pukatawagan to provide a secure place for passengers, baggage, and express shipments.

Assembly of First Nations / Railway Association of Canada

Railway Training and Employment

Funded under the Aboriginal Skills and Training Strategic Investment Fund, this project will test a training-to-employment model in the rail industry by providing Aboriginal individuals with specialized training for employment as conductors, signal maintenance technicians, and track maintenance workers. 

The railways will offer employment to graduates of all three occupational categories. This project will also address the impact of impending retirements/attrition on the industry's workforce and the resulting anticipated labour shortage.

---

While the Government is committed to supporting the development of individual home ownership on reserves, many First Nations continue to face significant need for affordable housing, including social housing. Canada's Economic Action Plan provides an opportunity to make significant progress addressing these needs.

The following is a list of approximate First Nations housing investments over two years by region:

• Atlantic: $20 million
• Quebec: $45 million
• Ontario: $65 million
• Manitoba: $75 million
• Saskatchewan: $60 million
• Alberta: $50 million
• British Columbia: $50 million
• Yukon: $4 million

First Nations Housing

Canada's Economic Action Plan provides $400 million over two years to support the construction of new on-reserve housing, renovations of existing social housing, and for complementary housing activities. These funds are flowing through Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) and Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC). To date, $200 million has been fully committed for specific 2009/10 initiatives. The application process for this fiscal year is now closed.

CMHC is delivering $250 million ($125 million in 2009-2010) through the On-reserve Housing New Construction Initiative for construction of new social housing and the On-reserve Housing Retrofit Initiative to address the demands for repairs, renovations, energy retrofits, and modifications to address overcrowding of social housing on-reserve. 

New Housing for Piikani First Nation

Forty-one social housing units are being retrofitted and an additional 12 units are being renovated on the Piikani First Nation with funding from Canada's Economic Action Plan. Investments are also being made to convert 56 band-owned housing units to private ownership in 2009–2010, and an additional 50 units will be converted in 2010–2011. These investments, which total $2.5 million in 2009–2010 and $1.25 million in 2010–2011, will improve the housing situation in the Piikani community.

The Piikanni First Nation is located in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, 87 kilometres southwest of Lethbridge, Alberta.

“Canada's Economic Action Plan has been instrumental in assisting the Piikani Nation establish long-term and sustainable working relationships with professional contractors and suppliers, train and employ up to 35 Piikani Nation members, kick-start our market housing strategy and most importantly improve our living conditions.”
— Reg Crowshoe, Piikani Nation Chief

The remaining $150 million is being delivered by INAC to First Nations for important complementary housing activities such as lot servicing, construction of new high-density multi-unit dwellings, renovating existing housing units, and assisting in the transition of band-owned housing to private ownership.

Under CMHC initiatives, work is underway on the construction and renovation of on-reserve social housing in 281 First Nation communities, addressing more than 3800 units.  Under INAC initiatives, over 2,100 housing units have been selected for construction, renovation or conversion to private ownership and nearly 600 lots designated for servicing for 2009/10. In some regions, namely Ontario, Saskatchewan and Quebec, several projects have now been completed.

These funds are now fully committed and projects have already begun in almost 300 First Nations communities. They are also generating employment and the development of skilled trades, thereby stimulating opportunities for the establishment of small businesses across the country, specifically in many First Nations and rural areas.

---

Supporting First Nations and Inuit Health Programs

Canada's Economic Action Plan contained $305 million over two years, with $135 million in the first year, to strengthen current health programs, improve health outcomes for First Nations and Inuit, and move towards greater integration with provincial and territorial health systems.  Of this amount, $240 million is augmenting the Non-Insured Health Benefits program and $65 million is helping to ensure around-the-clock nursing services in remote and isolated communities. 

First Nations Child and Family Services

The Government is continuing to move forward with willing provinces and First Nations in implementing a new prevention-focused tripartite approach for First Nations child and family services on reserves. Canada's Economic Action Plan provides $20 million over two years to ensure further progress on this strategy.

On August 25 and 26, 2009, the Government of Canada announced that Quebec and Prince Edward Island (PEI) respectively, would be the next jurisdictions to implement the Enhanced Prevention Focused Approach with Canada's Economic Action Plan funding.  The Government of Canada is providing $59.8 million over five years to implement the new approach on reserve in the Province of Quebec and $1.7 million over five years in PEI.  The Quebec and PEI frameworks are in addition to those reached with Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Nova Scotia, bringing the total to 5 provinces, and representing approximately 45% of First Nation children living on reserve in Canada.

This funding will provide a broad range of prevention services such as in-home supports, respite care and mentoring. The tripartite approach to prevention means families living on-reserve will receive the support and services they need before they reach a crisis. In turn, this will assist in achieving better outcomes for First Nations children and families. This will support the Government of Canada's objective to protect the most vulnerable in Canadian society, especially First Nations women and children.

---

Recreational Infrastructure Canada

Through Canada's Economic Action Plan, the Government of Canada has committed $500 million over two years to build and renew community recreation facilities across Canada.  This funding will be used to fund projects geared to the rehabilitation and upgrades of existing facilities, or to the construction of new facilities that will either add to or replace existing recreational infrastructure assets and/or capacity. In addition to tennis, basketball, volleyball or other sport-specific courts, eligible project categories include gymnasiums, sport fields, parks, fitness trails, bike paths and other multi-purpose facilities that have physical recreation as the primary rationale. 

Recreation Infrastructure Canada (RInC) provides opportunities for Aboriginal communities and businesses to benefit from the services of a well-equipped and prosperous community.

For example, the Government of Canada, in partnership with the Province of Ontario, is funding more than 50 recreational infrastructure projects in First Nations communities across the province. Whitefish River First Nation is one such community. The First Nation is being funded $695,000 under the RInC program to rehabilitate the Abinoojinah Odumino Gitigaan (children's playing field).  The recreational facilities will have an improved soccer field, running track, playground area, pedestrian walkway and basketball court.  The project also includes the construction of a new sports fieldhouse with washrooms and storage facilities and renovation of the existing building through the provision of change rooms and storage.  Environmentally-friendly materials will be utilized for construction and energy efficient lighting installed at the outdoor rink. This project is cost-shared by the Government of Canada and the Province of Ontario.

Renovations for Cross Lake Arena

The Cross Lake First Nation is located in the Province of Manitoba, 520 kms north of the City of Winnipeg. The Nation has an on-reserve population of 4,216 and an off-reserve population of 1,733 for a total population of 5,949. There are non-Aboriginal and Métis individuals residing on-reserve as well, bringing the total population of Cross Lake to approximately 7,000 people. The majority of the population is treaty status.

The Cross Lake community has been awarded funding under the Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) program to repair the local arena, which is home to the Cross Lake Islanders, a Junior “B” hockey team. 

Specifically, the RInC funding will be used to repair the roof, conduct an architectural assessment, remove and replace dehumidifiers, and remove and replace a brine header which is used to heat and cool the arena floor surface. 

Funding from the Province of Manitoba and the Cross Lake First Nation is also supporting the project.

RInC is also playing an important role for Aboriginal communities located in the North. Canada's Economic Action Plan is allocating $1.67 million of RInC funding in two installments to the Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor) to support projects in the three territories. Due to the short building season in the North, the majority of construction will occur in 2010-2011.

To date, eleven RInC projects in the territories have been announced. For example in the Northwest Territories, seven projects will receive RInC funding including $200,138 to Aklavik to upgrade the Sittichinli Recreation Complex Arena and $94,119 to Fort Liard for energy renovations at the Fort Liard Recreation Complex.

In Nunavut, the Territorial Government has committed to matching federal funding of $567,000 and oversee four RInC projects across the territory. Investments include up to $100,000 for renovating the Taloyoak community pool; up to $150,000 for renovating the Chesterfield Inlet complex gym; and up to $200,000 and $117,000 for new cement pads for the Igloolik and Sanikiluaq arenas.

Community Adjustment Fund

Through Canada's Economic Action Plan, the federal government is helping to mitigate the short-term impacts of restructuring in communities through the Community Adjustment Fund. Canada's Economic Action Plan provides $1 billion over two years for this Fund to support small communities (population less than 250,000) to undertake activities such as community transition plans that foster economic development, science and technology initiatives, and other measures that promote economic diversification. The Fund is delivered through the regional development agencies, including the newly created Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario and the Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor).

Community Adjustment Funds for Kikino Métis Settlement

The Kikino Métis Settlement, population 1,295, is located on the shores of Whitefish Lake, northeast of Edmonton, Alberta.  Kikino Métis Settlement is implementing a tourism strategy that will help to provide employment opportunities for community members and will contribute to the diversification of the local economy.  Community Adjustment Funds are helping the Settlement to develop its recreation/ camping facilities into a year-round tourism destination. This initiative will help to diversify the local economy by reducing the Settlement's reliance on the oil & gas sector for employment. Additional funding will be provided by the Kikino Métis Settlement and other industry partners.

Several Aboriginal communities across Canada are undertaking projects under the Community Adjustment Fund. In the Northwest Territories for example, the Tulita Dene Band Council will receive $488,000 to gather and remove communication wires on the Canol Trail in cooperation with the Norman Wells Land Corporation. The removal of the wire will ensure safe use of the trail, allow for increased recreational use, and support ecotourism activities.

In Northern Quebec, the Aananischaaukamikw Cultural Institute will see the construction of a museum dedicated to Cree culture and history. The Museum will be built in the Cree community of Oujé-Bougoumou. The museum is currently under construction and will be the first museum in Northern Québec. It will be the focal point in promoting the Cree culture, language and history. This facility will add a major attraction for tourism development in Northern Quebec which is oriented towards nature and Aboriginal culture.

Building Canada Fund

Managed by Infrastructure Canada, the Building Canada Fund supports infrastructure projects across the country, both large and small. The fund was established in 2007 under the Building Canada Plan. Under Canada's Economic Action Plan, an additional $500 million was added to the Communities Component of this Fund. To this end, federal and provincial governments have worked together to announce a number of smaller-scale projects in communities with a population under 100,000 that could be undertaken by March 31, 2011. 

For example, under the Communities Component top-up, Buffalo Lake Métis Settlement in Alberta will see the construction of a museum and cultural interpretative centre to showcase the Métis Culture. This centre will be a venue for local artists and artisans to improve, teach, and display their talents including music, dance, artefacts, storytelling, arts/crafts, and cuisine/cooking. The project is being cost-shared with the Province of Alberta and Buffalo Lake Métis Settlement.

Broadband

Canada's Economic Action Plan designated $225 million for expanding rural broadband service across the country. The deadline for proposals was Friday, October 23, 2009. First Nations who own and operate broadband infrastructure were eligible to apply for this funding. Application screening will be completed by mid-December 2009 and funding agreements are expected to be signed in January 2010.

Procurement Opportunities

Another potential vehicle for delivering benefits to Aboriginal people is through procurement. Procurement programming allows Aboriginal firms to directly bid on and win contracts for infrastructure projects or indirectly participate through partnerships with non-Aboriginal firms (e.g., sub-contracting). The Government's Procurement Strategy for Aboriginal Business (PSAB) includes liaison and outreach/awareness functions that can facilitate Aboriginal procurement activity without imposing undue delays in the roll-out of Government investments.

INAC coordinates federal efforts to identify Aboriginal businesses involved in the construction sector in each province and territory and shares this information with other government departments, provinces, territories and municipalities, construction and engineering industry associations, Aboriginal business associations, or any other organizations that have an interest in Aboriginal procurement.

The Procurement and Aboriginal Business Promotion Directorate in Indian and Northern Affairs Canada will host a two-day conference in March 2010 in Ottawa. The conference will include simultaneous training sessions for PSAB co-ordinators and Aboriginal Businesses as well as a trade show, comprised of representation from public, private, and Aboriginal businesses sectors. The conference will focus on procurement-readiness training and increased corporate procurement between Aboriginal businesses and the Government of Canada. For more information call: 1-800-400-7677.

Currently under development, the Aboriginal Business Information Management System (ABIMS) is a tool that will gather information and data to strategically support the 2009 Federal Framework for Aboriginal Economic Development vision - that Aboriginal Canadians enjoy the same opportunities for employment, income, and wealth creation as other Canadians. (For more information on the Framework, please visit: Indian and Northern Affairs Canada). ABIMS will provide basic corporate information including corporate profile, capacity, and sectors of the economy in which they can engage. ABIMS will support Aboriginal businesses by connecting them to procurement opportunities in the public and private sector. It is expected that this tool will be available in early 2010.

Aboriginal businesses seeking further information are directed to contact officials with the Procurement Strategy for Aboriginal Business at 1-800-400-7677.

---

Canada's North continues to be a key priority for the Government of Canada. Many significant investments in the North are included in Canada's Economic Action Plan and they contribute to the aim of Canada's Northern Strategy - to build a strong and sustainable North for Northerners and all Canadians. For more information on the Northern Strategy please visit: Canada's Northern Strategy  .

Investing in Canada's North is also of particular importance to Aboriginal Canadians given the high proportion of Aboriginal people who live and work in the North.

Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor)

Canada's Economic Action Planinvested $50 million over five years to establish a new Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor). CanNor will help create a prosperous economic future for Northerners. Officially launched on August 18, 2009, CanNor has a strong presence across the North with its headquarters in Iqaluit, regional offices in Yellowknife and Whitehorse, and a liaison office in Ottawa. A Northern Projects Management Office in Yellowknife is also being established to coordinate the work of federal regulatory departments and agencies in resource development in the territories.

CanNor is responsible for managing projects under Recreational Infrastructure Canada and the Community Adjustment Fund for the three territories. For example, under the Community Adjustment Fund, the Katlodeeche First Nation in the Northwest Territories is receiving $300,000 that will support four community improvement projects including landscaping and beautifying the town centre; developing a two-acre community garden; wildfire prevention and protection activities; and improving a nature trail. These activities will enhance tourism and local businesses while also supporting the well-being of local residents.

Strategic Investments in Northern Economic Development

CanNor's cornerstone investment in the North is the Strategic Investments in Northern Economic Development (SINED) program. The Economic Action Plan included $90 million over five years for the renewal of the SINED program to stimulate long-term economic development in the territories. New five-year territorial investment plans were approved by Minister Strahl in August 2009. As of October 30, 2009, 19 projects have received approval. Key expected outcomes include increased publicly accessible knowledge, expanded multi-user economic infrastructure, and more business and employment opportunities available to Northerners.

For example, the Council of Yukon First Nations will receive $715,800 for their 2010 project supporting the development and delivery of a world-class program show-casing the Yukon's diverse First Nations people, culture, and industry during the 2010 Winter Games. In Nunavut, $60,000 has been allocated to strengthen the on-going multi-species stock assessment taking place in the waters of the Hudson Strait.

High Arctic Research Station Feasibility Study

Canada's Economic Action Plan allocated $2 million to Indian and Northern Affairs Canada to conduct a feasibility study for a High Arctic Research Station that will serve as a hub for scientific activity in Canada's Arctic region. Consultations continue to be held with three candidate communities to examine the possible location for the research station. The Project Charter and Project Plan have now been finalized. Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, with the support of Public Works and Government Services Canada, will prepare preliminary costing of the program for January 2010. By summer 2010, detailed costing, space requirements, and a functional program will be established.

Arctic Research Infrastructure Fund

Canada's Economic Action Planalso allocated new funding of $85 million to upgrade key existing research facilities across Canada's Arctic. Following a Call for Proposals in February 2009 and a rigorous review process, funding for 20 infrastructure projects was announced in March, 2009. Projects that were chosen for funding will be completed by March 31, 2011. These projects will provide short-term economic stimulus for the North while simultaneously establishing a basis for strong Arctic research capacity that will support government priorities. These investments will ensure that a strong research infrastructure network is in place to support Canada's future High Arctic Research Station. To date, eight projects have commenced construction. Examples of projects include:

• The Aurora Research Institute in Inuvik, Northwest Territories is receiving up to $11 million to upgrade their research facility with improved laboratories and offices. The mandate of the Aurora Research Institute is to improve the quality of life of residents of the territory by utilizing scientific, technological, and indigenous knowledge to address Northern issues and promote social and economic goals. This project is in the design phase.

• The Nunavut Research Institute in Iqaluit is receiving up to $11 million for the construction of a new larger and more energy-efficient facility that will accommodate more research activities and services. The current facility has been used for over 30 years to provide multidisciplinary scientific support for field work and licensing. Design and construction work have begun. 

• The Centre d'études nordiques is receiving $8.29 million for environmental and safety upgrades to the accommodations, laboratory, and storage space at six of its facilities in Nunavik and Nunavut, in addition to the construction of a Community Science Training Centre to facilitate research planning, training, and knowledge sharing at the Whapmagoostui-Kuujjuarapik research station. With research stations stretching from Northern Quebec to the High Arctic in Nunavut, the Centre's research focuses on high latitude climate, landscapes, aquatic environments, vegetation, and wildlife. Facilities are at different stages of completion with construction initiated at Bylot Island (Nunavut) Boniface River and Whapmagoostui-Kuujjuarapik (Nunavik).

• The Churchill Northern Studies Centre in northern Manitoba is receiving funding of up to $11 million for upgrades to existing ‘spoke facilities' and a new Northern Studies Centre. The Centre has served as a non-profit research and education facility for researchers since 1976 as well as an important logistical hub for Canada's sub-Arctic region. The design of the Northern Studies Centre has been completed, materials have been delivered, and construction initiated at the Centre and one ‘spoke facility.' The Centre has created 13 full-time construction jobs for two months. One-third of these workers are Aboriginal.

Small-Craft Harbour Construction in Pangnirtung, Nunavut

Canada's Economic Action Plan allocated $17 million for accelerated construction of a small craft harbour in Pangnirtung, Nunavut. The objective of this harbour project is to provide improved infrastructure to the existing commercial fishery, provide a basis to further develop the inshore fisheries, and support other community marine interests.

Phase one, expected to be complete by fall 2010, entails a partially dredged inner basin, a marshalling area, the purchase of floating docks for small vessels and their pilot installation, and a west breakwater. To date, mobilization of equipment has been completed and a first group of floating docks has been purchased and delivered on site. Phase two of the project, entailing a number of construction activities including that of the main wharf, is expected to proceed in 2010-2011. This will allow for full operation of the harbour by summer 2012. 

Accelerating Action on Northern Contaminated Sites

Under Canada's Economic Action Plan, the Northern component of the Accelerating Federal Contaminated Sites Action Plan is receiving funding of $22.2 million over 2 years. This initiative aims to complete 163 new site assessments and work at 155 sites that were already funded under the existing fiscal framework across the Northwest Territories and Nunavut. Assessment projects at 106 sites have already been completed and there is currently one remediation and risk management project underway in the North.

As with other stimulus activities, creating jobs in Northern communities is an important element of this initiative. For example, the Giant Mine site in Northwest Territories has supported 59 direct employment opportunities as well as numerous spin-off positions. Estimates suggest that approximately 60% of direct and indirect employment positions stemming from work on contaminated sites in the North are currently held by Aboriginal people and/or Northerners. The redevelopment of contaminated sites also aims to improve the quality of life for Canadians and future generations by eliminating the possibility of exposure to potentially harmful contaminants.

Investments in Housing for Northerners

Recognizing the distinctive housing needs in the North, Canada's Economic Action Plan is providing $200 million, over two years to support the renovation and the construction of new social housing units across Northern Canada. Due to the high core housing need in Nunavut, the $100 million will go towards housing construction in Nunavut.  NWT and Yukon will each receive $50 million, and in the Yukon, an additional $4 million is specifically earmarked for First Nations. In addition, Canada's Economic Action Plan includes funding of $12 million that will be matched by the three territories to build new housing and to renovate and retrofit existing social housing for low-income seniors, persons with disabilities and Aboriginal people, among other vulnerable groups.

Unique Housing Project in Nunavut

As many as 141 ready-to-assemble housing units will be delivered to Nunavut communities in 2010 under a unique initiative under Canada's Economic Action Plan. The pre-built housing units are currently being fabricated in Ottawa using Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs). The units will be assembled on-site next spring. The SIP housing units are designed to be erected very quickly to take advantage of the short construction season, allowing workers to complete finishing and interior work throughout more difficult weather conditions.

 “SIP units far exceed energy efficiency standards, and that will mean less operating and maintenance costs in a harsh Arctic environment. The use of SIP housing units is one of many means used by the Housing Corporation in a continuing effort, which is shared by Ottawa and the Corporation's community partners, to meet Nunavut's housing needs. “
—Hunter Tootoo, Minister Responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation

A sod-turning event this summer signaled the start of a new project in Watson Lake, Yukon where the Government of Canada and Yukon Housing are contributing more than $4.5 million to create 12 affordable housing units for low-income seniors. The project is being designed to meet Yukon's SuperGreen Home energy efficiency standards and ensure a barrier-free interior and exterior living environment that will enable seniors in Watson Lake to remain in their community.

As noted in this and previous reports, the Government has moved quickly to have funding commitments flow out and generate activity in the Canadian economy. The Government has taken concrete measures to streamline processes to ensure early decisions on project selection, expedient tendering and contracting and to ensure that infrastructure projects make full use of what can be a short and challenging construction season in many parts of the country. As this report highlights, many projects are now in the construction phase and in some cases, construction is already completed.

Duty to Consult

As the government takes steps to strengthen the Canadian economy, it is also taking measures to more effectively and efficiently fulfill the legal duty to consult by:

• improving efficiency through implementing practical mechanisms to streamline the consultation process across departments, such as taking a “whole of government” approach for Crown consultation under the Major Project Management Office and

• integrating the legal duty to consult requirements into new priorities such as the Accelerating Infrastructure Initiative.

Canada has made incremental improvements in the consistency and coordination of consultation practices and is increasing the understanding of the Crown's obligations, beginning with raising awareness of federal officials on consultation and accommodation issues. Through Canada's Action Plan on Consultation and Accommodation, 900 federal officials have received training on the Government of Canada's duty to consult.

With many projects underway and others reaching completion, Aboriginal Canadians from all across the country are seeing results in their communities.

The Government of Canada will continue to play a leadership role in ensuring that these initiatives identified in Canada's Economic Action Plan are implemented in an effective and rapid manner and that the results are conveyed to all Canadians, through updates such as this one. Overall, these efforts are helping to minimize the effects for Canada of the economic downturn and strengthen our social and cultural infrastructure for the future.

 

Annex 1: Summary of Key Aboriginal and Northern Investments under Canada's Economic Action Plan

---

Footnote