MINISTER ROBERT D. NAULT ANNOUNCES PROJECTS IN TREATY 3 AREA

KENORA, ONTARIO (December 1, 2003) - Robert D. Nault, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development, today announced an additional four First Nations Governance Pilot Projects totalling $144,344 in the Treaty 3 area. These projects have been funded to design or enhance good governance practices and tools in First Nations communities.

"The pursuit of First Nations governance is about prosperity and building capacity," said Minister Nault. "Good governance builds hope among First Nations people. Good governance empowers citizens and strengthens their governments. It leads to jobs, new business and economic growth."

Two weeks ago, Minister Nault announced four First Nations Governance Pilot Projects involving the Anishinaabeg of Kabapikotawangag Resources Council, Wauzhushk Onigum First Nation, Shoal Lake #40 First Nation, and Northwest Angle #37 First Nation, all located in the Treaty 3 area. Combined with today's announcement for the Stanjikoming First Nation, Wabauskang First Nation, Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation and the Iskatewizaagegan Independent First Nation, eight Treaty 3 governance projects have been announced with a total funding of $370,000. (Please see attached backgrounder for additional information.)

The federal government has provided funding to support 113 governance pilot projects, with a total value of $4.6 million across Canada. This represents almost half of all First Nations in Canada. These funds are enabling communities to develop and implement effective governance tools and practices that can improve the lives of Aboriginal people in the short-term to medium term in the transition to self-government.

The Government of Canada is committed to improving the quality of life for First Nations people by strengthening governance and making strategic investments in economic development, education, safe drinking water and more.

For further information, contact:

Susan Bertrand
Senior Information Officer
Ontario Region
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
(807) 624-1531

Ontario First Nations Governance Pilot Projects - Backgrounder

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