2-02446

REPAIRS TO BEGIN ON MAJOR ROADS IN THE KITIGAN ZIBI COMMUNITY

KITIGAN ZIBI, QUEBEC (December 1, 2003) - On behalf of the Honourable Robert D. Nault, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development, Robert Bertrand, Member of Parliament for Pontiac-Gatineau-Labelle, and the Kitigan Zibi First Nation announced today that repairs and retrofit will begin on major roads in the community.

In addition to the initial contribution of $820,594 provided by the First Nation of Kitigan Zibi, Infrastructure Canada and Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC) each invested $820,595 for a total amount of $2,461,784. This money will be used to repair and renovate the Paganakomin, Pitobig, Kiniw Zibi and Makwa Mikan roads using the most advanced technology and best practices available. As the designer of the project, the Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg certified that the roads will be repaired using methods promoting environmental conservation.

"The construction, development and maintenance of infrastructures are part of INAC's objectives. This project will benefit the entire community because it will enhance their quality of life and promote entrepreneurship within the community," said Mr. Bertrand.

The repairs will be completed by December 2004, making the roads safer.

"We are glad the economic spinoffs from this project will help our community. During the repairs, 12 new jobs will be created and as designer of the project, the Band Council will have the opportunity to develop expertise in civil engineering, especially in highway construction," said Chief Jean-Guy Whiteduck.

Kitigan Zibi is an Algonquin community located near Maniwaki, in Quebec which is approximately 130 km north of Ottawa-Gatineau. There are close to 1500 residents in the community.

For further information, please contact:

Norman Odjick
Community Services Assistant Manager
Conseil de la Nation Kitigan Zibi Anishinageg
(819) 449-5170

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

Back to News Release Index