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GOVERNMENT OF CANADA SUPPORTS IMPROVEMENTS TO WATER AND SEWER INFRASTRUCTURE AT NORTHWESTERN ONTARIO FIRST NATION

KITCHENUMAYKOOSIB, ONTARIO (October 6, 2003) - The Honourable Robert D. Nault, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development, is pleased to announce a capital investment of approximately $9.9 million in water and sewer infrastructure improvements at Kitchenumaykoosib (formerly Big Trout Lake) First Nation.

Minister Nault said improving the quality of life on First Nation reserves is a top priority for the Government of Canada. "Working in partnership with First Nations, it is our goal that every First Nation community enjoy the benefits of a clean and safe water supply," said Minister Nault.

The $9.9 million project includes the extension of the piping system for water distribution and sewage collection, a water treatment plant with a treated water storage reservoir, and an upgrade of the existing Post Island wastewater stabilization pond.

Kitchenumaykoosib Chief Donald Morris says the infrastructure work is important. "Clean, safe drinking water is a critical need for members of the community. We look forward to the new facilities being completed," Chief Morris said.

In May 2003, Minister Nault announced a First Nations Water Management Strategy, including $600 million in new funds, aimed at improving the safety of water supplies in First Nations communities. In total, the Government of Canada is providing more than $1.2 billion nationally for water and waste water projects in First Nations communities across Canada over the next five years.

In 2002-2003, Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC) Ontario Region allocated $42.4 million for capital improvements to water and sewer systems, $15.6 million to support the operation and maintenance of these facilities and approximately $1.7 million to support operator training.

The Kitchenumaykoosib First Nation is located approximately 440 kilometres northeast of Sioux Lookout, Ontario. The First Nation has an on-reserve population of close to 1,200 citizens, and is accessible by air year round, or by temporary winter road during the coldest of winter months.

For more information, please contact:

Susan Bertrand
Senior Information Officer
INAC Communications
(807) 624-1531

Councillor Bill Sainnawap
Operations and Maintenance Manager Rudy Nothing
Kitchenumaykoosib First Nation
(807) 537-2263

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