Page 48 - Moose Deer Point First Nation
P. 48
Economic Development and
Employment
WORDS TO KNOW Our community has two major resources—our people and the
resources: supplies that meet unique environment in which we live. Our economy has long
a need been based on tourism and, more recently, we have gained
experience in manufacturing.
In the past, we worked as guides for tourists who wanted an
outdoor hunting experience. Our members also worked for Iron
City—a resort south of Parry Sound that would hire men from
Moose Deer Point to take folks on hunting or fishing expeditions.
We also worked as caretakers for local cottagers, and some
members made and sold ash baskets.
Moose Deer Point Marina
More recently, our waterfront areas have led to the
development of two successful marinas—one is a full-service
marina that has spaces for 250 boats. As well, several individuals
operate businesses that rely on boat traffic. These businesses
include boat repairs, trailer parks, and camping lots. We also
have many small businesses related to the tourist industry,
including cottage services such as cleaning, landscaping, snow
removal, and security. In the summer months, we have a high
employment rate due to these businesses.
Year round, our employment rate drops with the close of
the tourist season. Many of our members are employed
in our community at the Community Centre, First Nation
Administration Centre, Water Treatment Plant, Child Care
Centre, and Health Centre. Though we are without full
Chief Ed Williams was Chief in the emergency ambulance or police services, which must come from
1980s. Chief Williams strived hard
MacTier when needed, the Fire Department, Nurses Station,
to bring the community economic
and First Response Team employ people who look after medical
success; he was all about making
emergencies until an ambulance arrives.
things happen and making things
work. Many community members
Our members also own and/or work in small businesses, such
thank his vision and effort for the
long-term success of the Moose as our restaurant and the convenience stores located in King
Deer Point Marina. He was also
Bay and Gordon Bay. There are some crafts people and local
instrumental in the development
artists who sell their work, although they work at other jobs
of Niigon Technologies.
for permanent employment. There are still a few people who
maintain traplines each winter to add to their income, but this is
by no means how they make a living.
46 Moose Deer Point First Nation
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