News Release

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TORONTO - The McGuinty government’s investment in the Lieutenant Governor’s Aboriginal Literacy Programs is an important part of its progressive efforts to improve the lives of Aboriginal youth, David Ramsay, Minister Responsible for Aboriginal Affairs, said today at Queen’s Park.

"By investing in the literacy initiative, Ontario is helping to open doors and possibilities for the youth of remote First Nations," said Ramsay. "With improved reading and writing skills, youth are better equipped to face the challenges of living in a knowledge-based global society. Investments like this highlight our steadfast commitment to Aboriginal youth."

In the March 2006 Budget, Ontario committed over $800,000 for the Lieutenant Governor's 2006 Aboriginal Literacy Programs. The grant will help fund the Lieutenant Governor’s Aboriginal Summer Literacy Camps set to begin in July as well as The Club Amick for Young Aboriginal Readers’ Program set to begin in September.

"Our government is pleased to help support these programs, which help over 2000 Aboriginal youth in 29 fly-in First Nation communities develop their reading and writing skills," said Mike Colle, Ontario Minister of Citizenship and Immigration. "Our government applauds the leadership and vision of the Lieutenant Governor, the Honourable James K. Bartleman, and we are pleased to support his efforts to increase literacy among Aboriginal children."

Last year, the Ontario government launched its New Approach to Aboriginal Affairs to build relationships with the Aboriginal peoples in Ontario and help strengthen their communities. Education is a key priority in Ontario ’s New Approach. Ontario is committed to working with Aboriginal leaders and organizations to improve education among Aboriginal children and youth.

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Contacts:

Anne-Marie Flanagan
Press Secretary to Minister Ramsay
(416) 268-3690

Disponible en français

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