WEBEQUIE – Bob Nault, Member of Parliament for Kenora, on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for FedNor, joined with Webequie First Nation to celebrate improvements to their visitor accommodations.
“We are thankful for FedNor’s support in purchasing these units which will provide accommodations to guests and visitors to our community. Thanks to this investment, Webequie First Nation will be able to create jobs and generate economic development opportunities for the benefit of our citizens,” says Cornelius Wabasse, Chief, Webequie First Nation.
The remote Ojibway community of Webequie First Nation will benefit from increased accommodations for visiting tourists and workers as a result of a Government of Canada investment of $439,875. The FedNor funding will enable the community to purchase seven modular mobile trailer units to be used as additional accommodations for outside guests.
“I am pleased that our government is supporting the efforts of Webequie First Nation to develop the infrastructure it needs for sustainable economic growth and success,” stated Nault. “The additional lodging options and increased business activity generated as a result of this project will help create jobs for local residents and encourage further development in the area.”
As a result of this investment, 49 additional rooms will be made available through Webequie Contractors Lodging LP, a community-owned accommodation enterprise. In addition to providing much-needed temporary lodging, revenues generated by the new accommodations will help Webequie First Nation in its efforts to provide additional services such as meals and catering to guests and visitors.
“The Government of Canada recognizes the importance of investing in local infrastructure to help build stronger, more prosperous communities. By supporting the acquisition of new lodging units in Webequie First Nation, we are helping to create economic and business development opportunities for local residents, and contributing to the long-term growth and prosperity of the entire region,” states Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, and Minister responsible for FedNor.
Quick facts
- This investment is in line with the Prosperity and Growth Strategy for Northern Ontario, which outlines the Government of Canada’s approach to ensure the region can fully benefit from the national Innovation and Skills Plan. It is focused on three key economic development areas: supporting innovation; growing companies; and building stronger communities.
- FedNor’s investment is provided through its Northern Ontario Development Program which supports projects that promote sustainable community economic development, enhance business development and growth, and facilitate innovation throughout the region.
