THUNDER BAY – “Our investments in the future prosperity of Northern Ontario First Nations reinforce our commitment to building constructive, cooperative relationships with our Aboriginal communities. An approach based on mutual respect, dignity, and meaningful participation in decision making will lead to improved opportunities and a better future for Aboriginal families,” states Rick Bartolucci, Minister of Northern Development and Mines and Chair of the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC).
The Government of Ontario is funding several First Nations projects under the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation.
Wahnapitae First Nation will receive funding to develop the Wahnapitae First Nation’s Sustainable Development Department, which will include a business incubator, a meeting hall and conference centre, a medical clinic and space for administration services.
Pic Mobert First Nation will receive funding to expand and convert a vacant building into a Community Development and Innovation Centre, which will deliver Ontario Works employment and training, Contact North E-Learning and other community development and learning initiatives.
Kasabonika First Nation, through the Kasabonika Community Development Corporation, will receive funding to purchase a portable diamond drill in order to provide drilling services to exploration companies in the area.
Eabametoong First Nation will receive funding to build a facility that will support new programming and training needs for Eabametoong residents. The facility will provide space for meetings and geographic information system (GIS) work, and will also offer rental office space that can be used for new programs or exploration companies working in the area.
Windigo First Nations Council will receive funding to lead a consultation process among participating First Nations regarding the construction of an electrical transmission line that would connect 10 Far North First Nations to the Ontario power grid.