Government of Canada Supports the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation
OTTAWA, April 13, 2005 -- Minister of State (Northern Development) and Member of Parliament (Western Arctic) Ethel Blondin-Andrew, on behalf of Minister of Canadian Heritage and Minister responsible for Status of Women Liza Frulla, today announced $186,211 in funding for the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation (IRC). This funding will help encourage the local Inuvialuit population to participate fully in Canada's political, social, and economic life."It is important that Aboriginal people get involved in the administrative and political decisions that affect their daily lives," said Minister of State Blondin-Andrew. "To meet this goal, we renewed our partnership with the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation so that specialized training and employment opportunities remain available to Aboriginal people in the Northwest Territories. "
"Today, our government is reaffirming its commitment to improve the Inuvialuit people's quality of life in the Northwest Territories," said Minister Frulla. "Enabling their participation in the political process will help to ensure them a bright future."
The funding will allow the IRC to maintain an office and further develop relationships with governments and other agencies. The IRC is responsible for representing the interests of the Inuvialuit population in the Northwest Territories at regional, territorial, and national levels on issues such as language and culture, education, economic development, and health.
Financial assistance is provided by the Department of Canadian Heritage though the Aboriginal Representative Organizations Program (AROP). The goal of the AROP is to maintain a consultative framework of Inuit, Métis, and Non-Status Indian representative organizations through which governments can address the social, economic, political, and cultural issues affecting the lives of Aboriginal peoples in Canada. The AROP is managed by the Aboriginal Affairs Branch of the Department of Canadian Heritage.
Funding announced today was provided for in the February 2005 federal budget.
Information:
Jean-Philippe Côté Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Minister responsible for Status of Women
(819) 997-7788
Pierre Collin
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of State (Northern Development)
(613) 994-7626
Myriam Brochu
Chief, Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
(819) 997-9314
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