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09/16/2008 Infinite possibilities for wind energy discussed at Wind and Aboriginal Communities Seminar
(OTTAWA ON.) More than 220 delegates representing Aboriginal communities, the wind industry and governments across Canada came together at the Canadian Wind Energy Association's (CanWEA) first-ever Wind and Aboriginal Communities seminar in Ottawa, Sept. 11-12, 2008. The event is the most successful to date in the organization's ongoing Wind Matters series of educational seminars aimed at providing information on wind energy in Canada.
The seminar opened with a welcoming and special address by Claudette Commanda of the First Nations Confederacy of Cultural Education Centres, followed by opening remarks from Angus Toulouse, Regional Chief of Ontario, Assembly of First Nations. Robert Hornung, president of CanWEA, also spoke to delegates of the infinite opportunities for wind energy in Canada, and specifically the great potential for increased Aboriginal community involvement in wind projects.
This diverse gathering of Aboriginal communities, wind energy industry leaders and provincial and federal government representatives was the first of its kind in Canada. The event aimed to start a dialogue on the ways that these groups can work together to develop, build and operate large and small wind projects across the country. The seminar was sponsored by SkyPower, Vestas, Shell, and Suncor." ”There is a keen interest in Aboriginal communities across Canada to participate in wind energy development and there is an equal interest in the wind industry in partnering with Aboriginal communities” says Sean Whittaker, Vice President, Policy, for CanWEA."The key is to build relationships based on tradition and respect – this way, the gift of wind can truly be harnessed for the benefit of all”.
The Canadian Wind Energy Association (CanWEA) is a non-profit trade association that promotes the appropriate development and application of all aspects of wind energy in Canada, including the creation of a suitable policy environment.
CanWEA Media contact:
Ulrike Kucera - Media Relations Officer
Tel: 613 234-8716 ext. 228
Mobile: 613 867 4433
ulrikekucera@canwea.ca
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