The federal government’s $3.4-million investment in a new community hall for the Port Alberni-based Tseshaht First Nation is a “welcome signal of hope” at a time when need is at an all-time high for members, says the elected chief.
“Our Nation is experiencing the compounding impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and the difficult work we must undertake with respect to the Alberni Indian Residential School,” said Ken Watts (Wahmeesh).
Last month, the First Nation began scanning for unmarked graves on lands that were once part of the residential school, which operated between 1900 and 1973.
The new 7,000-square-foot Somass Hall will replace the previous community hall, which was demolished in 2019 after it was deemed unsafe for use.
The First Nation is investing $1.1 million in the project. No timeline for construction has been set.
Somass Hall will include commercial kitchen facilities, breakout and storage rooms, washrooms, modern heating, air conditioning and electrical systems, a parking lot and landscaping around the site.
In a statement, the federal government said the hall will be a cornerstone of the growing community, giving residents a space for gathering, learning and recreation.
“The new building will provide cultural opportunities for all Nuu-chah-nulth peoples and much-needed programming for the youth, elders, children, and families of the Tseshaht First Nation,” the statement said.
The federal funding comes from the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program, which includes more than $180 billion over 12 years for public-transit projects, green infrastructure, social infrastructure, trade and transportation routes and rural and northern communities.
Josie Osborne, MLA for the Mid Island-Pacific Rim, said the hall will “bring people together for ceremonies and celebrations, for storytelling and sharing food,” and help build a strong and healthy community.
