Government of Canada Invests in Major Infrastructure Projects for First Nation Communities in Quebec

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Quebec City, Quebec (July 6, 2010) - During a trip to Quebec, the Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians, announced investments planned under Canada's Economic Action Plan . The province will receive funding for projects that will improve water, school and housing facilities for First Nation communities.

These projects will lead to extensive construction throughout First Nation communities, including the renovation and construction of drinking water and wastewater systems, the renovation and expansion of schools, construction of housing projects and lot development, multi-unit housing construction, home renovations and property transfers. Overall, First Nations will manage these projects.

“Improving housing conditions in the communities, managing drinking water and renovating schools are some of the Government of Canada's main priorities,” stated Minister Stahl. “Investments made under Canada's Economic Action Plan are an important step towards improving living conditions for First Nation communities. These investments will contribute to developing healthy and sustainable communities.”

Specifically, through Canada's Economic Action Plan, over $50 million will be allocated to major infrastructure projects in Quebec, which includes:

• $13 million to improve the drinking water treatment system in Kahnawake
• $3.3 million for Phase 1 of improvements to the drinking water treatment facilities in Betsiamites
• $10 million to improve the drinking water treatments systems in Kitigan Zibi
• $6.4 million to renovate and expand the Uauitshitun School in Natashquan
• $3 million to expand Otapi High School in Manawan, and
• approximately $16 million invested in various housing projects in 30 Quebec First Nation communities.

“These are major construction projects that will breathe new life into essential community infrastructure,” stated Lévis-Bellechasse MP Steven Blaney. “It's especially significant as it will be primarily First Nations who will reap the benefits of these investments, both in terms of job creation and economic development.”

These investments are part of the $1.4 billion allocated to support First Nations under Canada's Economic Action Plan.

The Government of Canada is taking steps to improve the lives of First Nations and stimulate the economic growth of their communities through targeted infrastructure investments. Investments in school infrastructure projects will help ensure First Nation students have a strong and productive educational experience, beginning with access to quality infrastructure that is conducive to learning.

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