Ohsweken, ON  – The Government of Canada is supporting programs for Canada’s Aboriginal Peoples through a federal grant to the National Aboriginal Achievement Foundation. The announcement was made today by Phil McColeman, Member of Parliament for Brant, on behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.

“Our Government wants to recognize and honour the achievements of Canada’s Aboriginal Peoples by continuing to support programs that encourage them to reach their full potential,” said Mr. McColeman.

The National Aboriginal Achievement Foundation (NAAF) is a not-for-profit organization that promotes the development and education of Canada’s Aboriginal peoples. The organization is receiving $340,000 from the federal government for two career fairs being held in Prince George, British Columbia and Edmonton, Alberta. The federal money will also be used for the National Aboriginal Achievement Awards which will be broadcast nationally on the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network (APTN) and Global Television.

"The much-appreciated support of Canadian Heritage is further evidence that the Government of Canada is increasingly recognizing the importance of ensuring that First Nations, Inuit and Métis youth have access to post-secondary education so they may realize their own potential, contribute to the Canadian economy and help Canada meet the looming critical labour shortage,” said Roberta Jamieson, President and CEO of the National Aboriginal Achievement Foundation. “Through motivation and direct support, Aboriginal youth will be positioned to occupy their place in Canada’s future.”

Today’s announcement follows a week of meetings and activities in Ottawa involving the Assembly of First Nations. On Tuesday, Mr. McColeman attended the First Nations Day on the Hill Breakfast and  later met with members of the Elected Band Council of Six Nations. Mr. McColeman also attended Thursday’s Aboriginal Education Rally on Parliament Hill.