Lac Seul First Nation opens causeway removing remoteness factor for Kejick and Whitefish Bay residents
Press Release
Government Of Canada And Northwestern Ontario First Nation Announce Vital Transportation Link
LAC SEUL, ONTARIO - Sept. 25, 2009 - Member of Parliament for Kenora, Greg Rickford, on behalf of the Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Metis and Non-Status Indians announced today, in partnership with the Lac Seul First Nation, the official opening of the community's new causeway and bridge span.
"This project is a good example of how our Government is working to improve the lives of First Nations and stimulate economic growth," said Mr. Rickford. "We are working every day to build stronger, safer and healthier First Nation communities."
"Because of the geographic location of Lac Seul's three reserves, the coordination of programs and services has always been a challenge," said Lac Seul Chief Clifford Bull. "This span provides an all-season connection to the mainland removing the need for ice roads in the winter months, and greatly improves access to services for community members."
The causeway provides a vital transportation link between Lac Seul's three reserves and improves year-round accessibility for the communities of Frenchmen's Head, Kejick Bay and Whitefish Bay. Indian and Northern Affairs Canada provided $3 million in funding towards Lac Seul's $4.5 million causeway and bridge project through the proposal-based First Nation Infrastructure Funds (FNIF) program. FNIF provides First Nations with the opportunity to access funds for community planning and skills development, waste management, roads and bridges and energy systems.
The 600-metre causeway was constructed from quarried rock fill, the preferred material due to its uniform characteristics, its cleanliness and its appropriateness for fish habitat. The bridge includes a pedestrian walkway and capacity for boat passage. The project was built on time and within budget.
To learn more about FNIF, please visit: http://www.ainc-inac.gc.ca/ai/mr/nr/s-d2007/2-2944-bk-eng.asp
This release is also available on the Internet at www.inac.gc.ca
For more information, please contact
Minister's Office
Michelle Yao
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Chuck Strahl
819-997-0002
or
INAC Media Relations
819-953-1160