Ontario's winter road network servicing 30 remote First Nation communities received a $3.7 million funding lifeline.
Kenora MP Greg Rickford made the announcement in Sioux Lookout, Jan. 23, on behalf of Federal Indian Affairs and Northern Development Minister Chuck Strahl who is also the Federal Interlocutor for Metis and Non-Status Indians.
The money is earmarked for road improvements to transport essential goods and services during the winter freeze. The 3,000-km long seasonal road network is a vital overland link to otherwise isolated communities accessible only by air.
Nishnawbe Aski Development Fund President-CEO Harvey Yesno called the investment "integral to the well-being" of these communities and to reduce the cost of living of doing business.
The government said funding for annual road operations and maintenance for 2008-2009 has increased from $875,000 to $1.8 million. This announcement is a "one-time contribution" of more than $1.9 million.
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