NEDP contributes

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WINNIPEG - An $85,300 contribution under the Native Economic Development Program (NEDP) to an Indian-owned big game guide-outfitting business in northeastern British Columbia was announced by the Honourable Frank Oberle, Minister of State (Science and Technology), and Member of Parliament for Prince George-Peace River, June 12.

The contribution to owner-operator Harry Chingee, of McLeod Lake, represents 66 per cent of the cost of expanding the business. The expansion will include construction of cabins, acquisition of furnishing and equipment, three river boats, pack horses and an advertising program.

A member of the McLeod Lake Indian Band, Mr. Chingee has been in the big game guiding business since 1963.

Started last fall, the expansion is scheduled for completion this coming summer. The business provides five of seven day hunts for grizzly, caribou and other big game. A former chief of the McLeod Indian Band, Mr. Chingee is assisted in the business by his wife and six sons.

"This federal government assistance under the NEDP not only strengthens and expands a Native-owned business but is also enhances a business based on the consider-able natural resources of the area," Mr. Oberle said.

He said the federal government is committed to help develop Aboriginal economic self-reliance and commended the initiative being shown by Mr. Chingee is not only having established a business but also in pursuing growth of the enterprise.

Mr. Oberle said the NEDP to date has approved financial assistance of $14,171,500 to 26 British Columbia Native-owned projects.