KASABONIKA LAKE FIRST NATION – Today Greg Rickford, MP-Kenora, Minister of Natural Resources and Minister for the Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario (FedNor) announced infrastructure investments for 19 First Nations in Ontario, most of which are remote communities.
Minister Rickford made the announcement while visiting Kasabonika Lake First Nation.
The Minister is on a trip across the region, including a visit to Wapekeka First Nation to survey the school that was destroyed by fire last week. The federal government, along with officials from Nishnawbe-Aski Nation are working to ensure that the students are able to finish the school year.
The Federal Government is investing $28.5 million for the design and upgrades to diesel generating stations and fuel tank systems at core facilities through Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada.
Quick Facts
• Diesel generating stations and fuel tank projects are in progress at Deer Lake, Fort Severn, Poplar Hill, Mishkeegogamang, and North Spirit Lake First Nations at a total cost of $16.4 million.
• AANDC is also investing over $3 million to support fuel tank design projects in Attawapiskat, Kashechewan, Fort Albany, Mishkeegogamang, Sandy Lake, Weenusk, Eabameetoong, Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug and Wikwemikong First Nations.
• AANDC has provided over $9 million to Poplar Hill, Pikangikum, Kasabonika, Muskrat Dam, Mattagami, Webequie and Sachigo Lake First Nations for completed projects that address the unique electrical challenges and fuel tank issues faced by these communities.
• Through Canada’s Economic Action Plan, the Federal Government is assisting First Nations to upgrade or replace essential community owned fuel tank infrastructure and contribute to a cleaner environment on reserve as well as to improved health and safety for on-reserve residents.
“Sustainable and reliable electrical generation and fuel facilities are crucial to the future economic growth and development opportunities for these First Nation communities. These projects represent the Government of Canada’s commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by First Nation communities in the Ontario region,” stated Greg Rickford, MP-Kenora, Minister of Natural Resources and Minister for the Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario.
“I am pleased that the Government of Canada recognizes the importance of assisting the Kasabonika Lake First Nation with improvements to our infrastructure. The upgrades to our fuel system ensures the health and safety of our community,” commented Chief Eno H. Anderson, Kasabonika Lake First Nation.
