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July 24, 2006
Governments partner with First Nations to develop new cultural centre
SQUAMISH, B.C. – The new world-class cultural Centre being built in Whistler is receiving a $1 million investment from Western Economic Diversification Canada through the Western Economic Partnership Agreement. The new Centre will strengthen the cultural and ecotourism industry in the region by showcasing the history and culture of the Squamish and Lil’Wat First Nations. The Province of B.C. committed $6 million to the project in September 2005.
“This new Centre brings significant economic opportunities to the Squamish and Lil’wat people by creating 40-50 jobs to build the Centre’s facilities and 15 full-time and 30 part-time jobs to run the Centre during peak summer months,” said the Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-food and Minister of the Canadian Wheat Board on behalf of the Honourable Carol Skelton, Minister of National Revenue and Minister of Western Economic Diversification.
“The world knows this area as a premier recreation destination,” said Colin Hansen, B.C.’s Minister of Economic Development. “By establishing this new facility in the heart of Whistler, the Squamish and Lil’wat nations are helping to show visitors to the region, and residents alike, the history, arts and culture that also make this part of Canada unique.”
"We are very excited about building a state-of-the-art cultural centre in Whistler," said Chief Leonard Andrew of the Lil’wat Nation. "Showcasing our culture with residents and visitors will foster greater understanding between peoples and build relationships."
"This new cultural centre will provide us an opportunity to showcase our culture to an international audience," said Chief Gibby Jacob of the Squamish Nation. "Having the opportunity to contribute to the regional provincial economy is a very exciting possibility for our people, especially with the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Games coming to British Columbia."
The Squamish and Lil’wat Nations plan to develop a five-acre cultural Centre that will include a First Nation traditional village, interpretive trails and ceremonial gathering area. The Centre will generate approximately 15 full-time and 30 part-time jobs during peak summer months, and approximately 40-50 jobs for a one-year period during the construction of the facilities.
The Western Economic Partnership Agreement is jointly administered by Western Economic Diversification Canada and the provincial Ministry of Economic Development. To-date, more than 60 community organizations province-wide have shared in funding.
For additional information, contact:
|
Jinny Wu Fiona MacLeod |
Rena Kendall-Craden Krissy Jacobs |
WD Toll-Free Number:
1 888 338-WEST (9378) |