NEWS RELEASE
FEDNOR
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MATACHEWAN - The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, and Minister responsible for FedNor, today announced an investment of $16,000 in the Matachewan First Nation to improve a historically significant hiking trail near the community.
The funding is provided through the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program (CIP 150), which is part of the Government of Canada’s coordinated approach to mark the 150th anniversary of Confederation.
The five-kilometre trail leads to Fort Matachewan, a former Hudson's Bay Company trading post that was built in 1867, the same year as Canada’s Confederation.
Trail improvements include widening of sections of the trail, and the installation of signage, benches and a monument commemorating Fort Matachewan, a nearby First Nation historic burial site and Canada's 150th Anniversary.
Quick facts
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Canada CIP 150 is designed to leave a lasting legacy by supporting the rehabilitation or improvement of existing community infrastructure assets and facilities across the country that promote community and cultural benefits for the public.
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FedNor is delivering this program in Northern Ontario with an allocation of $10.4 million over two years, ending March 31st, 2018.
Quotes
“To celebrate Canada’s 150th anniversary of Confederation, the Government of Canada is investing to renovate, expand and improve historic, cultural and regional infrastructure to ensure these spaces will continue to be enjoyed by Canadians for years to come. The funding announced today will ensure tourists and local residents can easily access and navigate trails leading to Fort Matachewan, a historically significant site that represents Canada’s diverse culture and heritage.”
The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, and Minister responsible for FedNor
“We are pleased that the Government of Canada recognizes the cultural and historic significance of Fort Matachewan and our nearby First Nation burial site. Today’s announcement clearly supports our efforts to preserve and protect this important piece of Canadian history.”
Chief Alex Batisse, Matachewan First Nation
Associated links
To find out more about our programs and services, please visit: fednor.gc.ca and follow us on Twitter @FedNor.
Follow the Minister on Twitter: @MinisterISED
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