COMMUNITY PARTNERS BUILDING RELIABLE
POWER
McGuinty Government Supports First
Nation Standby Power Project
May 6, 2008
News
Ontario is helping Niigon Technologies and the Schad Foundation
install a new standby generator and an Uninterruptible Power System
at Moose Deer Point First Nation.
The province is investing $500,000 in the Standby Power
Project to help Niigon, which is owned by Moose Deer Point First Nation,
make electrical power issues a thing of the past. The new power supply
will help avoid power interruptions and provide improved opportunities
for business growth in the area.
Launched in 2000, Niigon Technologies is a world class
injection molding facility that manufactures computer, electronics,
automotive and medical components for companies across North America.
Any dividends paid by Niigon are directed to a Trust Fund set up to
invest in social, environment, wellness and infrastructure projects
on the First Nation.
The funding is part of the Rural
Economic Development Program which invests in community-based projects
in three priority areas:
Quotes
"This project will lead to the retention of 13 full-time
positions and a $28 million investment in the community. The new power
supply will ensure long-term viability for Niigon and Moose Deer Point
First Nation," said Leona Dombrowsky, Minister of Agriculture,
Food and Rural Affairs.
"Having a reliable power supply is vital to achieving
increased competitiveness and long-term economic development,"
said Michael Bryant, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs. "Through this
funding, Niigon and Moose Deer Point First Nation can now sustain productivity,
which will mean more money and resources for their community."
"Because of our remote location, power problems cut
into productivity and get in the way of around-the-clock operation,"
said Chief Barron King. "Higher productivity will mean more money
reinvested in social, environmental, wellness and infrastructure projects
within our community."
"In many ways, Niigon is already a success story
that serves as an example of what's possible if we all work together,"
said Robert Schad, Founder of The Schad Foundation. "And there
is much more we can do. We are proud to support an initiative that will
help Moose Deer Point First Nation to further revitalize its local economy
and community."
Quick Facts
- Since 2003, Ontario has invested $50 million in 158 projects through
the Rural Economic Development Program.
|
This site is maintained
by the Government of Ontario 
Queen's Printer for Ontario
