Government of Yukon
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FOR RELEASE #07-248
November 15, 2007
Selkirk First Nation And Yukon Government Put Northern Strategy Dollars To Work
WHITEHORSE - The Selkirk First Nation has been awarded over $2 million in Northern Strategy funds for its Journey to Self Reliance project and will partner with the Department of Economic Development to work on building a strong government.
"This is a very important step for the Selkirk First Nation," Economic Development Minister Jim Kenyon said. "We are pleased to be involved in this process to help the Selkirk government develop its structure to better serve the changing needs of its community."
"We are at a crossroads in our history," Chief Darin Isaac said. "We have the opportunity to embrace and benefit from self-government and changes in the world economy. We look forward to working with the Yukon government's Economic Development department as we shape this project."
The Journey to Self Reliance will be concentrated in three main areas:
• revamping the role and structure of the First Nation's government, and its companies, to further the pursuit of the First Nation's strategic priorities;
• education and training for career development and ability to work; and
• expanding on the traditional economy, particularly for youth.
The $2 million commitment of Northern Strategy funding will be allotted over four years.
The Selkirk First Nation will work to ensure that the changes take into account the needs of all members of the First Nation by involving them in the process. The Journey to Self Reliance will be managed by the Selkirk government, with Economic Development acting as an advisor throughout the process.
The Regional Economic Development Branch works with Yukon communities and First Nations to assist with capacity development, opportunity identification, community planning, and research in support of the economic development. The branch is available to assist with projects of all sizes and works proactively, helping to identify and capitalize on opportunities.
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| Contact: | |
| Roxanne Vallevand Cabinet Communications (867) 633-7949 roxanne.vallevand@gov.yk.ca |
Sunny Patch Communications, Economic Development (867) 456-3913 sunny.patch@gov.yk.ca |
| Chief Darin Isaac Selkirk First Nation (867) 537-3331 |