Federal-City Partnership Will Increase Participation of Urban Aboriginal People in Westman’s Economy


February 6, 2015

Released in partnership by the Government of Canada and the City of Brandon

Brandon, MB – Larry Maguire, Member of Parliament for Brandon-Souris, on behalf of the Honourable Bernard Valcourt, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, today announced support to the City of Brandon for a two-year project aimed at helping to increase the participation of urban Aboriginal people in the local economy.

The City of Brandon, in partnership with the Brandon Urban Aboriginal Peoples’ Council, will develop an Aboriginal Economic Strategic Plan. Under the plan, local governments, Aboriginal organizations, the private and not-for-profit sector will come together in a coordinated effort to address barriers to employment urban Aboriginal people face and to increase their participation in the local economy.

The City of Brandon is receiving $182,000 over the next two years from the Urban Partnerships program as part of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada's improved Urban Aboriginal Strategy, which is aimed at increasing the participation of urban Aboriginal people in Canada's economy by developing partnerships and supporting initiatives in communities across the country.

Quotes

"Our Government is proud to support projects that help to enable Aboriginal people to take greater advantage of our country's economic prosperity. Supporting measures that help create jobs and encourage Aboriginal participation in the economy is key to a more prosperous and vibrant Canada."

- Bernard Valcourt,
Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development

"I am proud to support the City of Brandon and other local organizations and businesses as they work together to increase participation of Aboriginal people in Westman’s economy. 
I will continue to do all that I can to ensure everyone has the opportunity to succeed and find meaningful employment. "

- Larry Maguire,
Member of Parliament, Brandon-Souris

“In partnership with the Brandon Urban Aboriginal Peoples’ Council, this funding will be used to link urban aboriginal citizens with local business organizations and, together, develop a plan for long-term, attainable economic opportunities. The City of Brandon looks forward to celebrating the successes that will be realized by this unique partnership.”

- Rick Chrest, 
Mayor of Brandon

Quick Facts

  • 56% of all Aboriginal people in Canada live in urban areas.
  • 195,895 Aboriginal people live in Manitoba.
  • According to the 2011 Census, 10.3% (5,360) of the population of Brandon had an Aboriginal identity.