KASHECHEWAN, ON, March 31, 2017 /CNW/ - The Governments of Canada and Ontario are committed to working with First Nation partners to promote healthy and prosperous First Nation communities.
Today, the governments of Canada and Ontario, the Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN), and the Kashechewan First Nation announced the signing of a Framework Agreement that will support a sustainable future for the over 2,300 First Nation members of the Kashechewan First Nation community.
Specifically, the tripartite agreement commits the parties to the development of an action plan to support the short-, medium- and long-term sustainability of the community, with a focus on improving outcomes in priority areas including housing, socio-economic sustainability, health programs and facilities, infrastructure development, and schools and community facilities.
This collaborative initiative supports a better future for the people of Kashechewan First Nation and will include consideration of options for relocation of the community.
A steering committee composed of representatives of Kashechewan First Nation, Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada, Health Canada and Ontario's Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation will provide general oversight and guidance on the action plan when developed. The committee will provide an annual report to parties on the progress made under this Framework Agreement.
Health Canada also continues to work with the Weeneebayko Area Health Authority (WAHA), the regional health care provider, to help support integrated health services and improve the wellbeing of First Nations people in the region.
Quotes
"Today is a celebration of us coming together nation to nation to build a strong foundation with the Kashechewan First Nation. This agreement is an important collaboration between the Federal and Provincial government and the First Nation, which will result in better health, education and economic outcomes and build a better future for all of its members."
The Honourable Carolyn Bennett, M.D., P.C., M.P.
Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs
"Health Canada is committed to working in partnership with the leadership of the Kashechewan First Nation, the Weeneebayko Area Health Authority (WAHA), and the Government of Ontario to ensure that Kashechewan community members have access to quality healthcare. Together, we are addressing the social determinants of health to ensure better outcomes for the community."
The Honourable Jane Philpott
Minister of Health
"In the era of reconciliation this agreement highlights how both levels of government and First Nations leadership can come together to address longstanding issues. This is a positive step towards improving the quality of life for the people of Kashechewan. We look forward to working with the federal government and Kashechewan First Nation to ensure a brighter future for the community."
The Honourable David Zimmer
Ontario Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation
"I am pleased that our federal and provincial Treaty partners have reached this framework agreement with Chief and Council as a way to address many urgent and long-standing issues in Kashechewan First Nation. This Nation-to-Nation relationship will help build a more sustainable community, and is a positive step towards reconciliation."
Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler
Nishnawbe Aski Nation
"This is a very exciting moment for the Kashechewan First Nation. After many years of struggle, we are partnering with the Governments of Canada and Ontario to help my people. We will work together to ensure that we provide the proper tools to become successful role models for future generations."
Grand Chief Leo Friday on behalf of the Kashechewan First Nation
Quick Facts
- Kashechewan First Nation is located on James Bay in Northern Ontario. As of February 2017, the Fort Albany and Kashechewan First Nations had a total registered population of 4,992, with 3,108 people on reserve.
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SOURCE Government of Canada
Media may contact: Sabrina Williams, Press Secretary, Office of the Honourable Carolyn Bennett, 613-697-8316, INAC Media Relations, Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada, 819-953-1160; Blair Ostrom, Minister's Office, Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation, 416-314-6750; Flavia Mussio, Media Contact, Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation, 416-314-9455
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