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January 24, 2007 Partnerships for Prosperity: National Chief Phil Fontaine Signs Memorandums of Understanding at National Aboriginal Economic Development Symposium in SaskatoonAssembly of First Nations National Chief Phil Fontaine signed Memorandums of Understanding with Bell Canada and Siemens Canada at the AFN’s Corporate Challenge Dinner last night in Saskatoon. “In order to close the gap in poverty, First Nations must build partnerships for prosperity with corporate Canada,” said National Chief Fontaine. “These Memorandums of Understanding with Bell Canada and Siemens Canada are a significant signal that two of the world’s largest companies recognize the potential economic benefits of working closely with First Nations. “The First Nations population is growing at a rate twice as fast as the rest of Canada,” noted the National Chief. “Half of our population of 750,000 is 23 years of age or younger. We must take the initiatives now to create opportunities for this generation, and for our children, in order to break the cycle of poverty and despair that seems to grow worse each day.” The National Chief has challenged corporate Canada to establish, enhance, and increase their activities with First Nations governments and business in order to fully realize employment and economic growth potentials. "I know some of original partners like Adobe, Grand River Enterprises, SIXTech Information Management, Encana and Enbridge join with me in welcoming the latest partners to our corporate table." “We are very pleased to be working with National Chief Fontaine and the Assembly of First Nations on initiating new projects and partnerships,” said Gary Cameron, Vice President Professional Services, Bell ICT Solutions. “In particular, we believe that the ability of First Nations, government and the private sector to harness information technology will ultimately create significant and sustainable economic development opportunities for First Nations.” Added Frank Suraci, Aboriginal Relations Manager for Siemens Canada: “We are very excited to be working closely in partnership with First Nations communities and the AFN. We want to help realize the unlimited potentials of a growing First Nations' population in developing socio-economic programs and technology infrastructure that will enhance wellness, economic development and community growth." Ken Hill, CEO of SIXTech stated: “Bringing our partner Adobe, one of the world's largest software companies to the AFN’s corporate table a year ago was a real accomplishment and I am thrilled to see so many other corporations now accepting the National Chief's challenge. These companies can all make a positive difference in First Nations communities and I look forward to contributing to the success of the National Chief's vision." “We look forward to many more companies – large and small – accepting our Corporate Challenge,” commented the National Chief. “I look forward to reporting upon significant progress in the months and years and to come.” REMINDER: When: Where:
Webcast: An audio card will be required and a media player.
The Assembly of First Nations is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada.
Contacts: ON-SITE: Nancy Pine, Communications Advisor, Office of the National Chief Bryan Hendry, AFN A/Communications Director |
