Canada Announces First Set of Recipients of Arctic Research Infrastructure Fund

YELLOWKNIFE, NORTHWEST TERRITORIES, Mar 30 (MARKET
WIRE) --
The Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern
Development and Federal Interlocutor for Metis and Non-Status Indians,
today announced 14 recipients of the $85 million fund to upgrade key
Arctic research facilities.

"Our Government is moving quickly to realize the strong and effective
commitments we made in our Economic Action Plan," said Minister Strahl.
"We know that world class Arctic research is vital to achieving our
Northern Strategy goals and we are ensuring that our scientists have the
facilities they need to conduct it."

A diverse range of research facilities from across Canada's North have
been selected so far, with more to come. The recipients were chosen after
a Call for Proposals, issued on February 20, 2009 and subsequent review
process.

"This fund will help to increase the participation of Northerners in
Arctic science and technology," said the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq,
Minister of Health. "This investment will create jobs, engage
Northerners' professional services and use Northern suppliers or firms to
carry out contracts."

These investments will ensure that a strong research infrastructure
network is in place to support Canada's new High Arctic research station,
for which a $2 million feasibility study is now underway.

Today's announcement is part of the Government's integrated Northern
Strategy that focuses on exercising Canada's Arctic sovereignty,
protecting the North's environmental heritage, promoting social and
economic development, and improving and devolving northern governance.

The federal government is working in many areas to advance its Northern
Strategy objectives. Recent investments also include:

- $156 million to support Canadian participation in International Polar
Year;

- $200 million over two years for the renovation and construction of new
housing units in the North;

- $50 million over five years for the creation of a northern economic
development agency;

- $90 million over five years for the renewal of the Strategic
Investments in Northern Economic Development program; and

- $37.6 million to support initiatives related to the proposed Mackenzie
Gas Project.

This release is also available on the Internet at www.inac.gc.ca.

Contacts:
Office of the Honourable Chuck Strahl
Nina Chiarelli
Press Secretary
819-997-0002

Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
Media Relations
819-953-1160

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