Minister Duncan Announces Completion of a Multi-Unit Housing Project at Wasauksing First Nation in Central Ontario

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Ottawa, Ontario (June 27, 2011) – The Honourable John Duncan, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, today congratulated Wasauksing First Nation on the opening of its six-unit housing complex. This project was made possible thanks to an investment under Canada’s Economic Action Plan (CEAP).”Our government is pleased to have supported the Wasauksing First Nation in the construction of this innovative, affordable housing complex for elders and single-parent families,” said Minister Duncan. “Housing is essential for strong and healthy communities and for improving economic and social outcomes.”

“Wasauksing First Nation is working to providing adequate housing for our citizens and the funding from Canada’s Economic Action Plan was instrumental in providing a multi-unit housing facility for our community, as well as much-needed employment during this economic downturn,” said Wasauksing Chief Robert Tabobandung Sr.

“The Government of Canada is proud to have made a significant contribution to this project,” said Honourable Tony Clement, Member of Parliament for Parry Sound–Muskoka and Minister for FedNor. “It truly is a testament to what can be accomplished when we work together toward a common goal.”

Construction on Wasauksing’s new housing complex began in August 2010 and was completed in June 2011. The Government of Canada contributed more than $1 million towards the site servicing, design and construction of this project. Wasauksing First Nation managed the project and invested approximately $550,000. The 8,252 square-foot complex will provide much-needed affordable housing for Wasauksing First Nation. The innovative housing complex features energy efficient propane-based heating, energy efficient doors and windows and appliances, and in-floor heating.

This project is part of the $400 million investment to support First Nations nationally in the construction of new on-reserve housing, renovation of homes to meet the health and safety standards and to address over-crowding and energy efficient standards, social housing, service lots for future housing developments, and complementary housing activities under Canada’s Economic Action Plan.

Canada’s Economic Action Plan has contributed to the completion of 13 multi-unit housing developments on-reserve in Ontario. Through CEAP, the Government of Canada has also funded the renovation of 724 housing units, the servicing of 219 lots for future development, and the upgrading of 50 housing units for First Nation home ownership.

For more information, please contact:

Minister’s Office
Michelle Yao
Director of Communications
Office of the Honourable John Duncan
819-997-0002

Media Relations
Aboriginal Affairs and
Northern Development Canada
819-953-1160