Government of Canada announces funding for Inuvialuit Regional Corporation
INUVIK, July 7, 2003 -- Ethel Blondin-Andrew, Secretary of State (Children and Youth) and Member of Parliament (Western Arctic), on behalf of Minister of Canadian Heritage Sheila Copps, today announced funding of $146,362 for the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation (IRC). This funding will enable the corporation to continue operating their existing Urban Multipurpose Aboriginal Youth Centres (UMAYC) in the Inuvik and Tuktoyaktuk regions."The Government of Canada is pleased to support an initiative that provides a stimulating and healthy environment in which Aboriginal youth can learn and socialize," said Ms. Blondin-Andrew. "These centres lend an opportunity for youth to gain self-confidence, and to lead a healthy and rewarding lifestyle."
The Inuvik and Tuktoyaktuk youth centres aim to promote and support positive development of Inuvialuit youth by providing a safe environment for them to participate in social, educational, and recreational activities.
The goals of IRC for 2003-04 are to encourage participation of new partners, to strengthen joint adult-youth council meetings set up to plan youth activities; and to increase involvement of youth in the actual operation of its centres.
The Urban Multipurpose Aboriginal Youth Centres (UMAYC) Initiative is designed to provide First Nations, Métis, and Inuit youth living in urban centres, with projects and activities that are culturally relevant and based in the Aboriginal community. This initiative supports and assists Aboriginal youth in enhancing their economic, social, and personal opportunities.
Financial assistance is provided by the Department of Canadian Heritage through its Aboriginal Affairs Branch. The Branch supports an Aboriginal infrastructure at national, regional, and community levels for off-reserve First Nations (status and non-status), Métis, and Inuit people. Its programs facilitate their participation in resolving issues that affect their quality of life and their place in Canadian society.
Funding for this initiative was provided for in the February 2003 federal Budget.
Information:
Sonya-Kim St-Julien
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
(819) 997-7788
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