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For Immediate Release
September 29, 2008

News Release

Supporting Our First Nation, Métis And Inuit Partners

McGuinty Government Supports Aboriginal Organizations' Call For Participation In Federal Vote

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NEWS
Aboriginal Affairs Minister Brad Duguid is calling for increased First Nation, Métis and Inuit participation, as well as greater awareness of Aboriginal issues in support of the National Day of Political Action. 

The National Day of Political Action is a First Nations public awareness campaign, led by the Assembly of First Nations, to encourage voting amongst First Nations and to increase the profile of Aboriginal issues during this federal election.

The Ontario government supports positive dialogue and increased engagement between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities, and is committed to building better relationships with Aboriginal people and improving the quality of their lives. 

QUOTES
"I support the call of Grand Chief Phil Fontaine and Grand Council Chief John Beaucage in encouraging First Nations to vote in the federal election and to engage their local candidates on issues of importance to them and their communities," said Brad Duguid, Ontario Minister of Aboriginal Affairs.  "First Nations, Métis and Inuit will benefit from making their voices heard."

QUICK FACTS

• Ontario invests about $600 million annually on programs and services for Aboriginal people through a number of ministries across government.
• About $300 million goes to children and social services, $85 million in health services, $80 million for justice and policing initiatives and $45 million on education and training programs.
• Early in 2008, Ontario signed a Gaming Revenue Sharing Agreement with First Nations across the province. The agreement provides First Nations with a stable source of funding. First Nations received $201 million immediately and will receive about $3 billion in total over 25 years for health and education, as well as cultural, economic and community development projects.

LEARN MORE
Ontario Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs web site.

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Scott Cavan, Minister's Office, 416-314-7395
Kevin Dove, Communications Branch, 416-326-6306