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Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs
June 18, 2010

Newfoundland and Labrador to Celebrate National Aboriginal Day

National Aboriginal Day is a recognition of the contributions made by First Nations, Inuit and Metis people. On Monday, June 21, the Honourable Patty Pottle, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs, is encouraging all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to participate in the celebration.

"Newfoundland and Labrador is a richly woven tapestry of distinct cultures and diverse traditions," said Minister Pottle, who will be in the Inuit community of Hopedale to participate in local events. "Aboriginal people have made an immeasurable contribution to this province. National Aboriginal Day provides an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the great contribution of Aboriginal people to our provincial identity."

Minister Pottle noted that the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has a proven record of support for programs to assist Aboriginal people, to prevent violence against Aboriginal women and children, and to provide economic opportunities for Aboriginal youth.

In February 2010, the Provincial Government, along with the Federal Government, Labrador's three Aboriginal groups, and Nalcor Energy – Lower Churchill Project, committed $30 million to provide Aboriginal people in Labrador with increased employment opportunities associated with major economic development activities.

In addition, through Budget 2010: The Right Investments – For Our Children and Our Future, the Provincial Government invested $430,000 in operational funding for the Transition House Program in Nain and Rigolet and a continued investment of $100,000 for the Suicide and Detrimental Lifestyles Program. As well, the Newfoundland Aboriginal Women's Network is receiving $100,000 in funding, and $125,000 is being provided to Aboriginal women to develop and deliver a series of capacity-building workshops in the five Inuit communities on the North Coast of Labrador.

"This is an important day of recognition for all Aboriginal people of Newfoundland and Labrador," said Minister Pottle. "I encourage everyone to contact their local Aboriginal and community groups so they can experience some of the Aboriginal culture, music and events taking place throughout the province."

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Media contact:
John Tompkins
Director of Communications
Department of Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs
709-729-1674, 728-7762
jtompkins@gov.nl.ca 

2010 06 18                                                    9:25 a.m.
 


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