Permanent home for Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinaabek First Nation

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Northwestern Ontario First Nation Celebrates Creation of New Reserve

OTTAWA, ONTARIO

July 15, 2011

The Honourable John Duncan, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, together with the Honourable Chris Bentley, Ontario Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, congratulate Chief Paul Gladu and the Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinaabek First Nation on the creation of their new reserve.

"The establishment of this reserve demonstrates the Government of Canada's commitment to work with the people of Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinaabek and other partners to improve the prosperity of the First Nation," said Minister Duncan.

The establishment of the 986.650 hectare reserve on the southeast shore of Lake Nipigon provides, for the first time, a permanent home for Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinaabek.

"This agreement lays the groundwork for a brighter future for our members," Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinaabek First Nation Chief Paul Gladu said. "This reserve will assist us in building a vibrant community, providing our current members and future generations with a healthy and safe environment in which to live and flourish."

Today's announcement recognizes several years of collaboration, which began in 1996, and will advance to the next phase as the First Nation develops its new community base.

"Ontario is proud to be a partner in the creation of this reserve for Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinaabek First Nation," said Minister Bentley. "We look forward to continuing our relationship with the First Nation and the federal government in order to foster economic growth and to help achieve positive outcomes for Aboriginal communities in Ontario."

The Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinaabek First Nation has a membership of 197, most of whom live in northwestern Ontario.