Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC) is contributing $10.9 million over six years from its Resource Partnership Program to assist the Aboriginal Pipeline Group (APG) as they work to secure a one third ownership participation in the proposed Mackenzie Valley Gas Pipeline.

INAC is one contributor to this $16 million dollar project. The Government of the NWT, the Aboriginal groups and industry have also pledged support for this initiative. This six year project is designed to aid APG in securing the commercial financing needed to acquire their ownership interest in the pipeline.

"There is major opportunity for Aboriginal ownership in pipeline development North of 60," said INAC's Minister, Robert D. Nault. "The Government of Canada is committed to ensuring that Aboriginal people and Northern communities benefit from development."

The partnership funding allows APG to work with some of the largest and most sophisticated corporations in Canada. The $16 million will leverage APG's participation in the complex financing negotiations on a sustained basis over the next six years. The funding is intended to create an opportunity for APG and its Aboriginal investors, to meet their one third ownership goal in a potential Mackenzie Valley Pipeline Project.

"We are very pleased with INAC's continued support for APG." said APG Chairman Fred Carmichael. "This funding will provide the foundation on which we can secure on our unique vision of Aboriginal participation and ownership in this project."

The 1300 kilometer proposed Mackenzie Valley Natural Gas Pipeline is the largest and most complicated infrastructure project ever contemplated in the NWT. APG's one third ownership of such a pipeline is the largest single business venture ever undertaken by a northern Aboriginal consortium. A broad range of construction, mobile equipment, and oil and gas-related skills will be developed and will be available for subsequent economic and employment opportunities. The project will result in a diverse array of contracting and employment benefits for not only the North but for all of Canada.

For more information, please contact:

Matthew Spence
Pipeline Readiness Office
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
(867) 669-2853

Fred Carmichael
Chairman
Aboriginal Pipeline Group
(867) 777-2737

Julian Morelli
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
(819) 997-0002

Indian and Northern Affairs Canada