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FEDERAL GOVERNMENT CONTRIBUTES $799,200 TO PURCHASE UNDERGROUND MINE TRAINING SIMULATORS IN THE NORTHWEST TERRITORIES

YELLOWKNIFE, NORTHWEST TERRITORIES (November 21, 2006) - The Honourable Jim Prentice, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians, is pleased to announce an investment of $799,200 over the next two years, from the Targeted Investment Program. The funds will help purchase one full-scale and three desktop underground mine training simulators for Aurora College in the Northwest Territories.

"The Government of Canada is pleased to support this project which is a made-in-the-North solution that will help meet the training needs and employment targets of the NWT mining industry," said Minister Prentice. We're pleased to participate in this partnership between governments and industry".

The purchase of underground mine training simulators will include one full-scale underground mine simulator and three desk-top computer simulators. The simulators will form the cornerstone of an underground mine training program that will provide students with skills that will enable them to take advantage of economic opportunities in the mining industry.

The simulator program provides participants with a virtual, hands-on experience and allows them to use modern tools and equipment effectively in a safe, risk-free and controlled environment. This program is specific to the needs of the northern mining industry and is applicable to positions in NWT underground mines.

The Targeted Investment Program is one of two key federal programs under the Strategic Investment in Northern Economic Development initiative, aimed at generating important economic opportunities for Northerners in all three territories. This is achieved by broadening the economic base, strengthening the sectors that drive the economy, enhancing Northerners' abilities to take advantage of economic opportunities, and increasing coordination and co-operation among partners and programs.

For further information please contact:

Deb Bain
Communications Officer
Department of Indian Affairs and Northern Development, NWT Region
867-669-2579

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