Harper Government announces support for local project that will lead to economic benefits for the Millbrook First Nation

MILLBROOK FIRST NATION, NS, June 21, 2014 /CNW/ - The Government of Canada is investing in a key economic development project for Millbrook First Nation -a hotel at the Millbrook Power Centre. The project will be completed in partnership with the First Nation and will lead to employment benefits for the First Nation community and economic benefits for the region. The 94 room hotel, under the Hampton Inn & Suites banner, will complement the restaurants, theatre and entertainment centre already located in the Power Centre, and will employ approximately 5 full-time and 10 part-time community members.

Scott Armstrong, Member of Parliament for Cumberland-Colchester-Musquodoboit Valley, made the announcement on behalf of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Minister Bernard Valcourt, at Millbrook's National Aboriginal Day celebrations today.

The Government is providing $1 million to assist with the construction of the hotel.

Quick Facts

• AANDC funding is from the Community Opportunity Readiness Program, which provides project-based funding to First Nation and Inuit communities for a range of activities to support communities' pursuit of economic opportunities and leverage private sector resources necessary to realize the full potential of these opportunities.
• The Government of Canada announced $2.3 million in 2010 towards infrastructure costs related to land preparation, including on-site water and sewer servicing, excavation and environment protection at the Power Centre.
• Millbrook First Nation is located near Truro, Nova Scotia, with 847 band members living on reserve and 1729 total band members.

Quotes

"I am proud to partake in the National Aboriginal Day celebrations and announce our Government's support for a project that clearly demonstrates what can be accomplished when the Government of Canada and First Nations work together on shared priorities. We will continue working with First Nations on projects that lead to economic benefits for the people of this region and strengthen Aboriginal entrepreneurship opportunities."

Scott Armstrong
MP, Cumberland-Colchester-Musquodoboit Valley

Associated Links

Success story: Millbrook First Nation: Truro Power Centre
Millbrook First Nation (community website)

SOURCE: Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development 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

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