Premier announces extension of Labrador Inuit Communities Agreement

Premier Danny Williams and Tom Rideout, Minister Responsible for Aboriginal Affairs, today announced the Contribution Agreement Between the Government of Canada and the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador for the Benefit of the Inuit Communities of Labrador has been extended to the end of the 2004-05 fiscal year.

Under the Inuit Communities Agreement this year, more than $3.3 million is contributed by the province and over $10 million is contributed by the federal government to the Inuit communities of Nain, Hopedale, Postville, Makkovik and Rigolet for the administration and delivery of provincial programs and services to assist in the improvement of the standard of living and socio-cultural development within these communities. In addition, there is about $3.4 million available in funds from the previous year to complete certain capital projects.

There are several projects planned for each Inuit community including $1.6 million for the construction of a small scale, high-tech incinerator for the community of Nain; two new municipal garages and yards valued at $750,000 each for the communities of Hopedale and Postville respectively; $689,000 for water and sewer construction in Makkovik; and a new council office and a municipal garage for the community of Rigolet valued at $400,000 and $740,000 respectively.

"Supplementary programs and services are focused on education, water and sewer, housing, recreation and funding for municipal administration and operating expenses," said Premier Williams, who is visiting northern Labrador communities this week. "This agreement demonstrates the commitment of both governments to improving the quality of life for residents on the north coast. It will result in significant advancements in municipal infrastructure and provide improvements to much-needed programs and services."

Minister Rideout, who will be visiting the north coast next week said: "This year marks the 50^th anniversary of the agreement, a testament not only to its longevity but also to its success. I am pleased with the overall progress of the agreement, particularly the work of the Torngat Recreation Commission. I applaud the management committee for continuing its support of recreation on the north coast," stated the minister. "Since incorporation, the Torngat Recreation Commission has assisted more than 350 people in a variety of activities and programs and have approved more than 75 proposals, totaling over $69,000."

The management committee for the Inuit Communities Agreement includes the federal Department of Indian and Northern Affairs and the Provincial Department of Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs as co-chairs. The remaining committee members include representatives from each of the five Inuit communities, Torngat Regional Housing Authority and the provincial departments of Education and Municipal and Provincial Affairs. The Labrador Inuit Association has observer status at committee meetings which are held on a quarterly basis.

Media contact:

Elizabeth Matthews, Office of the Premier, (709) 729-3960
Lori Lee Oates, Aboriginal Affairs, (709) 729-3015

2004 08 12                                        4:35 p.m.