Minister Tootoo Welcomes Participation of Indigenous Groups in Recreational Fisheries Conservation Partnerships Program

OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - March 18, 2016) - As Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and Coast Guard, I am pleased to announce that the Recreational Fisheries Conservation Partnerships Program (RFCPP) is now open and available to all Indigenous groups across Canada.

This is a big step forward to ensure that we deliver on the Prime Minister's commitment to a renewed relationship with Indigenous people.

In the past, only Indigenous conservation or angling organizations could apply for funding under the Partnership Program. The actions I have taken will open up the application process so that all Indigenous groups can submit proposals and access funding from the $28 million program. This funding is designed to support local projects that will restore, rebuild and conserve our fisheries habitat for future generations.

Indigenous communities have special knowledge about the land and the sea passed on from generation to generation. Now there's an opportunity to put traditional knowledge and expertise into action.

Last year, the RFCPP helped to restore more than five million square metres and 3,000 kilometres of recreational fisheries habitat. Almost 5,000 volunteers assisted with 240 projects. This is rewarding work that brings real results.

You can help to reconnect waterways, restore streamside vegetation or create spawning shoals. RFCPP contributions to projects range from $20,000 to $100,000 with an upper limit of $250,000 per project, per year. The RFCPP is built on partnerships and all applicants are encouraged to demonstrate how they will work with others to achieve their goals.

I personally want to encourage all Indigenous groups to consider submitting applications to the RFCPP. My department is actively engaging with all Indigenous groups across Canada to assist in the application process. More information can be found on our website.

Thank you very much / Qujannamiik (koy-ya-na-me)

Hon. Hunter Tootoo, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard

Associated Link

- Funding for Round 5 Recreational Fisheries Habitat Projects Now Available

Internet: http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca

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