Canada Supports BC First Nations' Plans for a Better Future

OTTAWA, Oct. 20, 2016 /CNW/ - Canada is committed to supporting First Nations' long-term visions for the future of their communities.

The Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs, Carolyn Bennett, congratulated First Nations in British Columbia who came together in Cranbrook, BC, to attend the 12th annual Comprehensive Community Planning (CCP) workshop, which ended today and was co-hosted by ʔaq̓am (St. Mary's Band) and INAC.

The Government of Canada is investing approximately $3 million this fiscal year to support 48 First Nations in British Columbia in their comprehensive community planning process. These plans help communities engage their membership in addressing areas such as infrastructure, health, culture, social issues and the economy. 

Once complete, Comprehensive Community Plans can be used to help guide community development and prioritize community investment.

Quotes
"It is clear that Comprehensive Community Planning ‎is essential to building stronger, healthier and more sustainable communities. By bringing youth and elders and all members of the community together to establish their priorities. First Nations are better able to identify their needs, build on their strengths and prepare for the future."

The Honourable Carolyn Bennett, M.D., P.C., M.P.,
Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs

"The ʔaq̓am Strategic Plan, ka kniⱡwitiyaⱡa, opened with the following quote, 'Our Community Strategic Plan will inspire us for years to come. It helps us realize a better future is possible for our people. We are very proud of ka kniⱡwitiyaⱡa'...over five years later and this still rings true. The leadership of ʔaq̓am is led by the vision and goals shared by our Community and we continue to work toward achieving each and every one with pride."

Nasukin Jim Whitehead
ʔaq̓am

Quick Facts

• The 48 communities to benefit from the 2016-17 investment are: Ahousaht, Ashcroft, Blueberry, Bonaparte, Cook's Ferry, Ditidaht, Doig River, Ehattesaht, Gitsegukla, Gitwangak, Gitxaala, Hupacasath, Iskut, Katzie, Kitsumkalum, Klahoose, Kwakiutl, Kwiakah, Kwikwasut'inuxw Haxwa'mis, Lake Babine, Lax kw'alaams, Little Shuswap Lake, Lower Kootenay, Lower Nicola, Lower Similkameen, Musqueam, Namgis, Nazko, N'Quatqua, Nuxalk, Old Massett, Pacheedaht, Penticton, Prophet River, Shackan, Shuswap, Shxwa:y, Skwah, Sts'ailes, Stz'uminus, Sumas, Tlatlasikwala, Tl'etinqox, T'Sou-ke, Wei Wai Kai, Wei Wai Kum, Wuikinuxv, Yunesit'in Government.
• Since 2004, INAC has contributed approximately $20 million for Comprehensive Community Planning in BC and 80 First Nations have completed plans to help guide community development and prioritize community investments.
• ʔaq̓am (St. Mary's Band) is celebrating its 10th anniversary of the completion of its CCP which has led to successful initiatives ranging from the construction of their school and gymnasium to the creation of employment opportunities for their members.

Associated Links

• First Nation Infrastructure Fund
• Comprehensive Community Planning
• CCP Handbook: Comprehensive Community Planning for First Nations in British Columbia

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SOURCE Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada

Sabrina Williams, Press Secretary, Office of the Honourable Carolyn Bennett, 613- 697-8316; Media Relations, Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada, 819-953-1160