Canada Supports Increased Opportunities for Aboriginal Peoples Participation in Economic Development

EDMUNDSTON, NB, Oct. 25, 2014 /CNW/ - Bernard Valcourt, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development participated in a historic ceremony today, with a friendship agreement signed between the City of Edmundston and Madawaska Maliseet First Nation in New Brunswick. The friendship agreement strengthens partnerships between the two neighbouring communities to support increased collaboration on economic development projects that will benefit the entire region.

The communities have come together through the First Nations-Municipal Community Development Initiative (CEDI), with the support of Canada's investment of $1.6 million over three years. 

CEDI is a joint venture of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) and the Council for the Advancement of Native Development Officers (CANDO). It aims to enhance partnerships between participating First Nations and adjacent municipalities to develop and implement joint economic development plans and initiatives.

Quick Facts

• Supporting CEDI is just one of the many ways the Government of Canada is assisting Aboriginal peoples in increasing economic development opportunities, as described in the Federal Framework for Aboriginal Economic Development.
• Madawaska Maliseet First Nation has a population of 143, with a band membership of 275 individuals.
• The Edmundston-Madawaska initiative is one of six pilot projects across Canada.

Quotes

"Our Government is taking action to support partnerships that can advance economic improvements across Canada. I congratulate the Madawaska Maliseet First Nation and the City of Edmundston for reaching this important agreement, with the potential to increase economic opportunities and ensure the long-term prosperity of both communities."

Bernard Valcourt
Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development

Associated Links
Moving Toward Economic Development: The Story of Madawaska Maliseet

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SOURCE: Government of Canada

Erica Meekes, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, 819-997-0002; Media Relations, Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada, 819-953-1160