August 29, 2012

Feds commit to funding schools on reserves

The federal government recently announced funding for a new elementary school for the most northern community in Ontario, Canada.

The investment in the Fort Severn First Nation is being supported by Economic Action Plan 2012.

“Today we celebrate the first school infrastructure announcement under Economic Action Plan 2012, a demonstration of our government’s commitment to working with First Nation partners across Canada to deliver tangible and lasting results for First Nation students,” said John Duncan, minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development.

The announcement was well received.

“The construction of a new elementary school for our community is very welcome news, as it will give hope and encouragement for our youngest students, who represent our future. The school will help to support their long-term educational success through this important infrastructure initiative,” said Chief Matthew Kakekaspan.

This project is part of the $175 million for new schools and major renovations included in the government’s Economic Action Plan 2012 commitments to First Nation education.

Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada continues to invest about $200 million annually in support of school infrastructure in First Nations communities across the country.

The Fort Severn First Nation is responsible for managing all aspects of this project including administration.

Project costs will be finalized once the competitive tendering process has been completed.

While good progress to improve on-reserve learning environments will be made through these investments, the government admitted that more needs to be done.

Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada is targeting these investments to ensure that priority is given to projects with the highest infrastructure needs.

Fort Severn First Nation is located on the southwest coast of Hudson Bay.

JOC NEWS SERVICE

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