Province Congratulates Millbrook

Premier John Hamm and Michael Baker, the Minister responsible for Aboriginal Affairs, today helped officially open the Truro Power Centre, a retail complex on the Millbrook First Nation.

"The Truro Power Centre is an outstanding example of what a First Nation can achieve in co-operation with the private sector," said Mr. Baker. "I commend Chief Lawrence Paul, the band council and the private partners for their vision."

Millbrook First Nation signed a development agreement with the Sobeys Group for 20 hectares--50 acres--along Veterans Memorial Highway. The federal government is financing the $7 million overpass that will direct traffic to the power centre. The provincial government has no financial or operational involvement in the power centre.

The property houses a Needs retail outlet, Green Gables store, Ultramar Gas Centre and a Tim Hortons outlet. The band's video lottery terminals are also housed in a building on the site.

Mr. Baker said the project is an example of creative approaches that can lead to jobs and other opportunities in First Nation communities.