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NEW SCHOOL CONSTRUCTION COMPLETE AT LAC LA CROIX FIRST NATION

LAC LA CROIX FIRST NATION, ONTARIO (November 16, 2005) - Ken Boshcoff, Member of Parliament for Thunder Bay-Rainy River, announced today on behalf of the Honourable Andy Scott, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians, the opening of a new $8.5 million school at Lac La Croix First Nation

“This new school provides the children of the Lac La Croix First Nation with the atmosphere they need to help achieve their academic goals,” MP. Boshcoff. “The Government of Canada believes that we all have a role to play in helping to foster success and will continue to invest in First Nation education, culturally appropriate learning, and social and recreational development.”

The project was completed through a partnership between the Government of Canada and the First Nation. The Government of Canada, through Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, provided $8.5 million for the project, while the First Nation managed planning, design and construction of the facility.

The new Kindergarten-Grade 12 facility is 1,545 square metres, and includes one Kindergarten room, six classrooms, a computer room, a multi-purpose room and a gymnasium. There is also a storage area and a staff and administration area. The space will accommodate up to 105 students.

“Our community is eager to implement its unique educational programming in a new facility where everyone can feel comfortable,” said Chief Larry Jourdain. “This new school is an investment in the future of our children, and our community.”

The Lac La Croix First Nation is located 220 kilometres west of Thunder Bay and has 1,000 members, 170 of whom live on reserve.

For further information, please contact:

Tony Prudori
Acting Senior Information Officer
INAC Communications
(807) 624-1531

Chief Larry Jourdain
Lac La Croix First Nation
(807) 485-2557

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