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For Immediate Release
May 15, 2008

News Release

ONTARIO TO BOOST JOBS AND PROSPERITY FOR ABORIGINAL COMMUNITIES

Ipperwash Report's New Relationship Fund Marks Historic Milestone

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NEWS
Ontario is helping Aboriginal communities to develop the resources, capacity and skills necessary to effectively represent their interests and work more seamlessly with governments by investing in the New Relationship Fund.

A recommendation of Justice Linden’s Ipperwash Inquiry Report, the fund is about building stronger relationships between the Province of Ontario and its Aboriginal partners, as well as encouraging greater coordination amongst government, industry and Aboriginal communities.

The fund will be supported by a $25 million commitment over the first two years. Over the summer, the province will consult extensively with impacted communities on the details of the fund and will begin its implementation in the fall.

QUOTES
“We are delivering on the McGuinty government’s commitment to the creation of the New Relationship Fund,” said Michael Bryant, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs. “By working together to create new economic opportunities, we are also encouraging long-term, sustainable development.”

“The initial investment announced today is a positive first step in recognizing the significant capacity needs within First Nations communities. We look forward to a joint dialogue with Ontario in collaboratively working out the details of this Fund," said Ontario Regional Chief Angus Toulouse.

“We look forward to this Fund being used to build and enhance the capacity of Métis Nation of Ontario citizens and our communities in order to more effectively engage and work with the Ontario Government and industry. By working together, we can create a stronger and more prosperous Ontario, which benefits the Métis people and all Ontarians,” said Gary Lipinski, President of the Métis Nation of Ontario.

Minister Bryant with Angus Toulouse and Gary Lipinski

Ontario Regional Chief Angus Toulouse (left), Ontario Minister of Aboriginal Affairs, Michael Bryant (centre), and Gary Lipinski, President of the Métis Nation of Ontario (right), at Queen's Park.

QUICK FACTS

Ipperwash Inquiry Report released May 31, 2007.
Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs established June 21, 2007.
December 20, 2007 Ontario establishes Ipperwash Inquiry Priorities and Action Committee to work on setting priorities for implementation of recommendations of the Ipperwash Inquiry Report. Announcement of eventual transfer of the Ipperwash Provincial Park lands to the Chippewas of Kettle and Stony Point First Nation.

LEARN MORE
http://www.chiefs-of-ontario.org/

http://www.metisnation.org/

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