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SADDLE LAKE FIRST NATION INVESTS IN PIPELINE SERVICES COMPANY

EDMONTON, ALBERTA (May 13, 2005) - The Honourable Andy Scott, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor of Métis and Non-Status Indians, today announced $600,000 in federal funding to assist Saddle Lake First Nation in purchasing a 51 per cent interest Pepco Pipe Services Ltd.

The remaining 49 per cent will be held by S. McDougall Holdings Ltd., the previous owner.The Edmonton-based company, in business for more than 20 years, fabricates and coats pipe for the pipeline industry. Saddle Lake hopes to expand the company and tap into its own growing labour market.

“Aboriginal people have purchasing power, offer new markets, and competitive business locations. Most importantly, they offer new energy, enthusiasm and commitment – all ingredients for success,” said Minister Scott. “And building the kind of future we want requires the active participation of partners, especially those in the private sector. It is gratifying to see companies like S. McDougall Holdings Ltd. engaging in economic development projects with First Nations.”

Pepco Pipe Services Ltd. currently employs 35 people. The new partnership with Saddle Lake is expected to create 51 new jobs over five years, most of which will be filled by Saddle Lake First Nation members. The extensive training received by members will provide transferable job skills in the oil and gas industry beyond this present partnership.

“This project is very important to our First Nation and its members as it enhances our economic sector and provides employment and training opportunities, thus effectively carrying out the Nation’s socio-economic and human resource strategies. Saddle Lake is determined to work with industry in the various sectors and the government to maximize economic opportunities that will benefit our First Nation, while ensuring that our Treaty Rights are protected, entrenched and maintained at all times,” said Saddle Lake Chief Eddy Makokis.

Saddle Lake First Nation, located in Treaty 6, has a total registered population of 6,133 members.

For further information, contact:

Kelly Payn
Communications Officer
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
Alberta Region
(780) 495-2840

Chief Eddy Makokis
Saddle Lake First Nation
(780) 726-3829

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