2-02411

GOVERNMENT OF CANADA INVESTS IN ECONOMIC AND CULTURAL DEVELOPMENT OF WENDAKE

WENDAKE (QUEBEC) - October 17, 2003 - The Honourable Robert D. Nault, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development, congratulated the Huron-Wendat First Nation, which is celebrating today the inauguration of Old-Wendake. Over the last four years, Indian and Northern Affairs Canada invested $4.6 million to complete the revitalization of Old Wendake, a tourist destination near Quebec City, and $1.3 million to help rebuild the Wendake school.

"The Government of Canada is fulfilling its commitment to work in partnership with First Nations on a wide range of initiatives to accelerate economic development, contribute to the long-term sustainability of First Nations communities and provide opportunities for youth," said Minister Nault.

The $4.6 million announced today will further develop tourism facilities in Old Wendake, help to promote and preserve the cultural heritage of the Huron-Wendat Nation, and will also replace water and wastewater infrastructure.

Some of the funds have been used to develop Tsawenhohi House, an intrepretative centre that will tell the story of the Huron-Wendat's culture, lifestyle and economic life. Operation of the centre will create seven jobs within the community.

The other $1.3 million in funding has been provided to the First Nation to rebuild its school which was destroyed by fire in August 2002. The First Nation contributed $600,000 to the reconstruction of Ts8taïe school.

The Huron-Wendat First Nation has approximately 3,000 members and is located in the suburbs of Quebec City.

For further information, please contact:

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

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