PROVINCE SIGNS $1.6 MILLION PARTNERSHIP DEAL TO IMPROVE ACCESS TO THE WITCHEKAN LAKE FIRST NATION

The Province of Saskatchewan is investing $1.6 million to pave the Witchekan Lake access road in a partnership deal with the RM of Spiritwood and the Witchekan Lake First Nation that will see improved access for area residents to the province's growing economy.

Saskatchewan Highways and Transportation will pave almost 7 km of gravel road, beginning at the junction of Highway 24 and ending at the second intersection leading into the First Nation.

In addition, the Province and the Witchekan Lake First Nation have agreed to work together to secure federal funding opportunities to pave an additional 300 metres of gravel road leading to the First Nation's school.

"This pilot project recognizes that in order for the Witchekan Lake First Nation to participate more fully in the provincial economy, they need better road access to Highway 24," First Nations and Métis Relations Minister Maynard Sonntag said on behalf of Highways and Transportation Minister Eldon Lautermilch. "There are more than 380 residents living on the reserve. By paving the Witchekan Lake access road, we're helping First Nation families take full advantage of jobs and services in the surrounding areas and providing a better future here for our young people."

"We are pleased with the provincial government's contribution to make the road more reliable," Witchekan Lake First Nation Chief Kenneth Thomas said. "At times during the year, the road is impassable and dangerous. Improving access is something we have been working toward for some time. It will mean greater economic development and tourism opportunities as well easier access for ambulance and health care services into our community."

The RM of Spiritwood will manage the road-building project on behalf of the provincial government. The design and engineering phase will begin immediately, with construction to start in the 2007 construction season. The project is expected to take one year to complete.

"This is an exciting opportunity to improve access not only for Witchekan Lake residents but for all residents of the RM," RM of Spiritwood Reeve Grant Cadieu said. "Through the tendering and construction of this road, we will work toward providing First Nation residents with employment opportunities associated with this project."

This investment is a component of the long-term strategy to ensure the province's transportation network meets the current and future demands of a thriving and diverse economy. The plan will also emphasize building relationships between parties with the greatest interest in the transportation network.

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For More Information, Contact:

Kirsten Leatherdale Highways and Transportation Regina Phone: 306-798-2116 Cell: 306-536-9692