The Government of Canada is supporting the renovation, expansion, and development of healthcare and educational facilities within Kasabonika Lake First Nation.
On August 20, Seamus O’Regan, Minister of Indigenous Services, joined Bob Nault, Member of Parliament for Kenora, and citizens of the Northern Ontario First Nation to celebrate the community’s newly expanded Emily Anderson Memorial Menoyawin Health Centre. The project was made possible through Indigenous Service Canada’s (ISC) $13.9 million investment and included a 1,154 square metre expansion with new residences, new exam and emergency rooms, and an expanded range of health services and programs.
“The Government of Canada is committed to investing in health and education infrastructure on reserves to improve access to quality health care and education in First Nations,” said O’Regan. “The expansion to the community’s nursing station will greatly improve the long-term health and well-being of families in Kasabonika Lake First Nation. The improvements to the existing school and the construction of a new high school will provide the students in the community with an environment where they can succeed and work towards a promising future.”
ISC is also investing $41.2 million towards new and renovated educational facilities within the First Nation. These include renovations and additions to the existing school to accommodate Grades K4-6 students, the construction of a new 3,000 square metre school to accommodate approximately 180 Grade 7-12 students, and improvements to teacher accommodations. Construction for these initiatives is slated to begin in spring 2020.
“The renovations and additions to the existing school and the construction of a new secondary school will provide a learning environment that will help our children to reach their full potential and achieve their dreams for a bright future,” said Kasabonika Lake First Nation Chief Eno H. Anderson.
ISC’s investments are part of the Government’s Investing in Canada infrastructure plan, which has earmarked over $180 billion over the next 12 years to support public transit projects, green infrastructure, social infrastructure, trade and transportation routes, and Canada’s rural and northern communities.
