Government of Canada Invests in Infrastructure Projects in Pikogan

PIKOGAN, QC, Jan. 12, 2017 /CNW/ - The Government of Canada, in collaboration with First Nations, is committed to supporting infrastructure development in communities to improve the quality of life of the people who live in them.

During her visit to Pikogan, Quebec, the Honourable Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs, today announced an investment of $1.2 million for projects to address the community's housing and cultural and recreational infrastructure needs. This investment has provided for, among other projects, the construction of a youth centre, a traditional gathering site and a soccer field, as well as the installation of outdoor playgrounds and water play areas (see backgrounder for project details).

Once completed, these projects will ensure that the community of Pikogan has infrastructure that directly contributes to the wellness and the quality of life of its residents.

Quotes

"I am proud that the Government of Canada is supporting projects that will allow the community of Pikogan to revitalize itself and benefit from cultural and recreational infrastructure, which will help members connect and live healthy and active lives without having to leave their community."

The Honourable Carolyn Bennett, M.D., P.C., M.P.
Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs

"It is essential to establish all ideal conditions for promoting physical activity and well-being among residents within the community. A new, more functional youth centre for teens and a new playground complete with a water play area for our children will give our community's residents exciting and pleasant places to meet. The same can be said for the new soccer field and running track. Our members will no longer have to go into town to practise their activities; they can do it where they live, a few steps from home."

David Kistabish
Chief, Conseil de la Première Nation Abitibiwinni

Quick Facts

• Budget 2016 proposes historic investments of $4.6 billion over five years to support infrastructure projects in First Nation and Inuit communities.
• Pikogan is an Algonquin community located three kilometres from Amos, in Abitibi-Témiscamingue. It has 1,038 members, 566 of whom reside in the community.

Related Product

• Backgrounder: Infrastructure Projects in Pikogan 2016–17

Related Links

• Budget 2016 Highlights – Indigenous and Northern Investments
• Minister Bennett Highlights Major Investments in First Nation Community Infrastructure

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Backgrounder

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Date: January 12, 2017

Infrastructure Projects in Pikogan 2016–17

The Government of Canada announced an investment of $1.2 million in infrastructure projects in Pikogan under Budget 2016. The projects, described below, will have a direct impact on the community's well-being and will improve the quality of life of its residents. This investment is a testament to the Government of Canada's commitment to supporting community infrastructure development and to working together with First Nations in a spirit of reconciliation.

Project Name	Total Cost of Project
Renovation of 10 housing units	$182,188
Construction of community radio station	$240,000
Construction of youth centre	$225,000
Construction of traditional site for community gatherings	$210,000
Construction of soccer field and running track	$80,000
Construction and installation of outdoor playgrounds and water play areas	$275,000
	Total: $1,212,188

SOURCE Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada

For further information: the media may contact: Sabrina Williams, Press Secretary, Office of the Honourable Carolyn Bennett, 613-697-8316; Media Relations, INAC, Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada, 819-953-1160