NEDP approve funds

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OTTAWA - An $85,000 contribution under the Native Economic Development Program (NEDP) to a new, Indian-owned financial institution in the Dauphin region of Manitoba was announced by the Honourable Andre Bissonnette, Minister of State (Small Businesses), and Minister responsible for the Program.

The contribution enables the newly established West Region Tribal Council Investments Inc. to carry out a nine-month special study to develop a comprehensive operational plan.

Expected to be completed in the fall of 1986, the study will develop an organization structure, identify investment opportunities, prepare financial and budget projections and outline operational plans.

The study will also provide an analysis of the financial services to be provided

by the corporation to the Indian band and individuals in the tribal council.

"Successful implementation of WRTC Investments Inc. should prove a major

step toward improving the economic development situation of the 3,950 people in the eight bands in the region," Mr. Bissonnette said.

He said the NEDP contribution is further evidence of the commitment of the federal government to assist development of Native economic self-reliance.

"I applaud the initiative being shown by the leadership of the West Region Tribal Council toward establishment of an economic base for their people in the area and I wish them every success in this significant undertaking," the Minister said.

The following Indian bands are member sof the WRTC: Crane River, Ebb & Flow, Gambler, Pine Creek, Rolling River, Valley River, Waterhen and Waywayseecappo. Chief Dennis White Bird of Rolling River is tribal council chairman.