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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