Improved Information Technology in NWT… In Other News – Funding to the Aboriginal Healing Foundation Has Ended
The Federal Government likes to toot its own horn as far as funding for projects such as these, which are needed; however, how can over a century of systematic abuse and racism be healed in only 12 years? http://nikiashton.ndp.ca/node/138
Yellowknife (Northwest Territories), May 10, 2010 – The Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor) is supporting improved information technology in the Northwest Territories with funding to the Katlodeeche (KFN) and Yellowknives Dene First Nations (YKDFN).
The Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of CanNor, made the announcement today.
CanNor will provide a total of $265,000 for two projects which will enhance Internet connectivity in Northwest Territories communities.
“Better Broadband and Internet service has the potential to improve the way communities conduct business, communicate with their families, and even receive health and social services,” said Minister Strahl, who is also the Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs, and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians. “This funding will provide a number of Northwest Territories communities with lasting technological infrastructure.”
“Funding to improve the Katlodeeche First Nation’s broadband service will provide immediate cost savings and administrative improvements for the band council, as well as training and employment opportunities for local residents,” said the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister Responsible for the North and Minister of Health. “The Yellowknives Dene First Nation will also benefit from CanNor’s funding, as it explores ways to build its information technology capacity.”
“CanNor’s funding has enabled us to build our existing infrastructure into a more robust and streamlined system, lowering administration costs and ensuring more accountability and transparency. The video-conferencing capabilities also gives our Chief and Council more time to spend at home and on the land, instead of travelling for meetings. We can connect anywhere in Canada,” said Lyle Fabian, KFN Band Councillor and project head. “In our culture, communication has always been very important. This is another way of communicating, to link our community through technology.”
“With CanNor funding, the Yellowknives Dene First Nation was able to assess its IT infrastructure, networking, security and connectivity upgrade requirements and develop viable options to realize these upgrades,” said Stephan Folkers, YKDFN Housing Manager. “CanNor funding also allowed the Yellowknives Dene First Nation to assess its IT-support capacity building needs.”
Funding for this project was provided through the Strategic Investments in Northern Economic Development (SINED) program, part of Canada’s Economic Action Plan. SINED is delivered by CanNor in the three territories.
CanNor is responsible for coordinating and delivering federal economic development activities in the territories, and for related policy development, research and advocacy.
