Canada’s New Government Funds Improvements to Infrastructures at Chippewas of the Thames First Nation

LONDON, ONTARIO (March 14, 2007) – The Honourable Jim Prentice, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians, today announced $2.9 million for water and housing capital projects for Chippewas of the Thames First Nation, a community 35 kilometres south of London.

“Last year, I announced a Plan of Action to provide First Nation communities with the resources they require to deliver clean water to their residents. With today’s project announcement, Canada’s New Government is ensuring the Chippewas of the Thames First Nation have safe, clean and reliable drinking water,” said Minister Prentice. “Today, I am proud to also announce an initiative that will ensure this community can meet the increasing housing demands of its senior citizens.””These projects will bring significant benefits to the Chippewas of the Thames community,” said Chief Kelly Riley. “The construction of this gallery is an important step in the process of acquiring a state-of-the-art water treatment facility.”

INAC is providing approximately $2.7 million for improvements to the First Nation’s raw water supply system. The project involves the design and construction of a sewage infiltration gallery, construction of a low lift pumping station, and decommissioning of four existing raw water supply wells. A further $200,000 will assist with lot-servicing for 20 units of a seniors complex currently under construction. When completed, the complex will include a total of 60 units. It is being financed through a repayable loan of $1.26 million from Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. CMHC is also providing an annual subsidy of $150,619 over the life of the loan.

There are approximately 829 members residing on reserve, and another 1,431 living off reserve.

For more information, please contact:
Deirdra McCracken
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Jim Prentice
(819) 997-0002

INAC Media Relations (819) 953-1160

~ Backgrounder – Infiltration Gallery Raw Water Supply System