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GOVERNMENT OF CANADA HELPING ATTAWAPISKAT BENEFIT FROM ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES

TIMMINS, ONTARIO (August 19, 2005) - The Government of Canada today announced $363,300 in funding to Attawapiskat First Nation for economic development and environmental initiatives arising from potential diamond mining in the area. These activities range from environmental assessment work to exploration of business development opportunities with private sector partners and James Bay Coast First Nations.

The announcement was made by the Honourable Andy Scott, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians during a visit to Timmins.

“Economic development is about building the cornerstone of strong, healthy and vibrant First Nation, Métis and Inuit communities,”said Minister Scott. “This includes establishing the right environment for these communities to attract and retain investment.”

Chief Mike Carpenter said, “Creating wealth helps more than just the community of Attawapiskat and people living in our area. Future economic development activities can also benefit the economies of Ontario and Canada.”

This funding, provided by Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, is assisting Attawapiskat First Nation in:

• negotiating with De Beers Canada regarding economic benefits resulting from the planned mining activities including employment, training, and financial compensation; and
• working with other First Nations to develop enhanced air service in the Hudson Bay and James Bay area in anticipation of the planned diamond mine and associated activities; and
• community consultation and consensus-building with respect to the environmental assessment for the proposed Victor diamond mine.

This funding has been provided and accounted for in the 2004-2005 budget, and is subject to the reporting requirements of the Government of Canada.

Indian and Northern Affairs Canada offers programs that help foster economic growth, and prosperity for communities and their residents. For more information on these programs, please visit www.ainc-inac.gc.ca.

The Attawapiskat First Nation is located near the west coast of James Bay, approximately 455 kilometres by air North of Timmins, Ontario. The First Nation has a total of close to 2,800 members, with approximately 1,580 living on-reserve.

For further information, please contact:

Tony Prudori
Regional Communications Officer
INAC Communications
(807) 624-1535

Chief Mike Carpenter
Attawapiskat First Nation
(705) 997-2166

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