The Harper Government Announces a Financial Contribution Toward Construction of a Grocery and Hardware Store in Lac Simon

LAC SIMON, QC, Sept. 10, 2013 /CNW/ - The Honourable Bernard Valcourt, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, today announced the start of construction work for a grocery and hardware store in the Algonquin community of Lac Simon.

"Our government is committed to supporting local businesses that bring jobs to the community and encourage economic growth," declared Minister Valcourt. "The community of Lac Simon will now have easier access to the products it needs, which will improve economic development and the quality of life in this community."

Currently, community members have to drive many kilometres to the nearest town to stock up on basic goods and food staples. Construction of this multi-purpose building will help meet essential needs and thus improve the quality of life for community members.

For this project, the Government of Canada has established a partnership with the Aboriginal Business Development Program.

Increasing Aboriginal participation in the Canadian labour market, and the economy more generally, is an important and effective way to address the challenging socio-economic conditions facing many Aboriginal people, especially young Aboriginal people.

The community of Lac Simon is located on the western shore of Lake Simon, 32 kilometres southeast of Val d'Or. It has 1,912 members and has an on-reserve population of approximately 1,543 residents. To find out more about the community of Lac Simon, visit the community profile on the AANDC website.

This release is also available on the Internet at www.aandc.gc.ca.

SOURCE: Government of Canada

Minister's Office       
Erica Meekes
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Bernard Valcourt 
819-997-0002

Media Relations
Aboriginal Affairs and Northern
Development Canada
819-953-1160

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