2-02733

COMPLETION OF NIKANIK’S EXPANSION

WEMOTACI (Québec), November 8th, 2005- The Honourable Andy Scott, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians and Chief François Néashit of the Wemotaci Atikamekw community today announced the completion of the expansion of the secondary school, Nikanik.

With a view to the future, school officials decided to take advantage of extra space and built a soundproof area for music education and the teaching of local trades. The school, which can accommodate 242 students, was renamed Nikanik, which means "looking forward" in the Atikamekw language.

"Education is essential for the development of strong and independent people and communities. Indian and Northern Affairs Canada supports Aboriginal communities’ efforts to improve their educational services and modernize their school structures on reserve. We are working with First Nations to increase skills and labour force development on the basis of values, talents and interests of today’s youth," said Minister Scott.

"We are proud to have been able to complete this project which gives opportunities to our youth to develop their knowledge and skills in the fields of welding and woodworking. The completion of this expansion marks the start of a promising future for our youth and educationally, it will help them succeed in obtaining their diploma," added Chief Néashit. This expansion project of 470m2, on two floors, was completed with a financial contribution from Indian and Northern Affairs Canada of $1,331,000.

The reserve of Wemotaci is located on the northern shore of the Saint-Maurice river, 100 kilometres northwest of La Tuque. It has 1462 residents, 1190 of which are permanent residents.

For additional information, please contact:

Hélène Philippe
Regional Communications Manager
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
(418) 648-7675

Gaetane Petiquay
Education Director
Nikanik Secondary School
(819) 666-2232

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